7 Best Bass Fishing Lakes in USA for Every Bass Fisher

With anglers and fishers rising in number every passing day, the competition in this sport is increasing. Everybody is looking to go fishing in the best locations to maximize their catch rate for the day.

Sport bass fishing has steadily become more popular than ever before, and everyone has their list of the best bass fishing states across the country. Keeping the structure and accessibility in mind, we’ve shortlisted the best bass fishing lakes in USA.

Our list is inclusive of the most renowned lakes for bass fishing, as well as some relatively new spots so you can choose the next destination to take your backpack on your fishing trip wisely!

Best Bass Fishing Lakes in the US

After thorough research and conducting multiple surveys, we’ve reached a consensus about the best bass fishing lakes in USA.

So, here are the top locations, in no particular order, with an in-depth view of each of them and why they should be on your list.

1. Santee Cooper Lakes, South Carolina

One of the best freshwater lakes in South Carolina, Santee Cooper Lakes, is made up of Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie.

Surrounded by high-rise thick trees and a beautiful view of sunsets every day, Santee Cooper Lakes has proven to be an excellent place to catch largemouth bass. 

People have reported catching up to a 20-pound bass at times, and a 7 to 8-pound catch isn’t a problem here. From striped bass to white bass, these 110,000 acres of the freshwater lake are heaven for bass anglers. 

However, since the water in these lakes can be quite clear, you’ll need to fish in the lake’s relatively muddier areas.

Hence you would need to downsize your gear and use floating lures such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or floating worms. Overall, your bass fishing experience here will undoubtedly be memorable.

2. Lake Guntersville, Alabama

With 69,000 acres, lake Guntersville stands as the largest lake in the state of Alabama. Located near the northern side of the state, Lake Guntersville is a part of Alabama State Park and hosts dozens of fishing tournaments annually. 

It makes its way on the list of the best bass fishing lakes in the USA thanks to its massive bass population and easy accessibility.

When fishing in this lake, you can find any and every kind of bass, including smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, white bass, spotted bass, and even striped bass!

It’s unanimously known as one of the best fishing spots in the states, with its main tributary being the Tennessee River. Smallmouth bass fishing, in particular, is the most exciting trait of this location.

3. Lake Lanier, Georgia

With 700 miles of shoreline and multiple islands for fishing, lake Lanier is a top choice for anglers nationwide.

From winters to summers, the bass abundance in this lake will never fail to amaze you. Aside from bass, this lake is known to be rich in multiple types of rainbow trout, grunion, catfish, walleye, and so much more!

Most importantly, lake Lanier is home to one of the largest bass populations. Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, spotted bass, and especially striped bass are famous bass types found here. 

Lake Lanier is also one of the best-spotted bass fisheries, and its easy accessibility gives it an edge over most angling spots. However, because of this accessibility, there’s often a lot of rush during the weekend so choose your time and day for this location wisely. 

4. Lake Fork, Texas

The largemouth bass is the main attraction for Lake Fork, Texas, rightfully earning its place as one of the best bass fishing lakes in the US.

This lake holds the record for the largest catch ever made in Texas alongside 60% of the large catches made in this state.

Covering nearly 43 miles of shoreline, Lake Fork has undoubtedly made its name as a heaven for Texan bass anglers. However, you need to be aware that the authorities keep a vigilant check on your catch so that they can preserve their bass population.

5. Lake Berryessa, California

Lake Berryessa is the largest lake in Napa County and home to the massive bass.

From smallmouth to largemouths, the bass found in Lake Berryessa can measure up to 20 inches. So, if you’re someone who enjoys catching large bass, this might be your next destination.

You can make significant catches here all year round no matter what the season is. If you’re aware of the lake’s structure, you can easily catch three different bass types a day, including spotted bass, largemouth, and smallmouth bass. 

6. Lake Erie, Pennsylvania

With more giant fishing lakes come more significant anglers’ opportunities to get the best out of their catch rate.

Lake Erie is one of the great lakes that have provided 1.5 million fish per year to anglers traveling there from all across the country.

While such great lakes are often said to be the hub for smallmouth catches, lake Erie is brimmed with largemouth and striped bass and gives you endless angling options for the day. This lake is accessible 24 hours a day, making it easy for you to fish without constraints. 

7. Mille Lacs Lake, Minnesota

Covering 132,516 acres, Mille Lacs is Minnesota’s second-largest inland lake. With its shallow waters, it’s the perfect spot for catching bass.

From deep water angling to shallow reef top fishing, Mille Lacs is a popular choice for most American Anglers because of its ideal bass fishing conditions.

From smaller 3-pound bass to a massive 8-pound bass, this lake is filled with various bass. Whether it’s largemouth or smallmouth, Lake Erie anglers have reported their peak catches and testify to the fact that it’s one of the best bass angling lakes out there.

In 2016, a whopping 78-pound catch was reported right here at Lake Erie for the annual angling tournament!

Conclusion

From small catches to whopping 78 pounders, we’ve got you covered with the best bass fishing lakes in the USA.

With the right gear and one of these destinations, you’re bound to have an excellent time bass fishing and catch your most extensive bass record yet.

We hope you find your best catch! And don’t forget to leave a comment down below if you have any questions!