Planning Your Fishing Trip on Public Lands: Choosing the Ideal Spot

After wrapping up our hunting series on public lands—from planning locations and gathering resources to in-field tactics and post-hunt processing—it's a natural pivot to another sustainable harvest activity: fishing. At Not One Acre, we champion ethical outdoor pursuits that support conservation and keep public lands thriving. Fishing not only provides recreation and food but also funds wildlife management through license fees. This first post in our new "Fishing on Public Lands" series guides you through planning and selecting spots, with tips tailored to shared public spaces. Fish responsibly to preserve habitats.

Why Fish on Public Lands?

With rivers, lakes, and streams on over 640 million acres of federal lands, public areas offer diverse fishing opportunities at low cost. From trout in mountain streams to bass in reservoirs, it's accessible and contributes to ecosystem health when done sustainably. Plus, it complements our previous guides: Apply Leave No Trace from camping and hiking to minimize bank erosion and litter.

Steps to Plan and Choose Your Fishing Location

• Target Species and Seasons: Decide on fish like trout, salmon, or walleye, and check state seasons. Consider catch-and-release for sensitive populations.
• Research Access and Water Types: Look for rivers, lakes, or coastal areas with public access. Use maps to evaluate boat ramps, trails, and wading spots.
• Evaluate Fish Populations: Review stocking reports and creel surveys from state agencies to find healthy waters without overfishing.
• Secure Licenses and Permits: Buy state fishing licenses; add federal stamps for certain waters (e.g., trout stamps). Verify bag limits and gear restrictions.
• Pre-Trip Scouting: Visit off-season or use apps for virtual views. Note water levels, hatches, and structure like logs or drop-offs.

Special Topics and Tips for Preparation

Fishing on public lands involves unique considerations for safety, ethics, and impact:

• Regulations and Ethics: Know barbless hook rules, size limits, and no-live-bait zones. Practice selective harvest to sustain stocks.
• Safety Prep: Wear life jackets for boating, carry waders with belts, and watch for swift currents or wildlife. Inform others of your plans, as in our camping checklists.
• Weather and Gear Basics: Pack for changes with rain gear and layers. Test rods/reels; include polarized sunglasses for spotting fish.
• Environmental Care: Use non-lead weights to avoid poisoning wildlife; pack out line and tackle. Avoid trampling riparian zones, tying into our sustainable hiking tips.
• Budget and Logistics: Factor in travel, bait costs, and boat rentals. Start with shore fishing if new to build skills.

Useful Resources for Planning

Get started with these tools and links:

• BLM Fishing Resources – Maps and access info for BLM waters.
• U.S. Forest Service Fishing Guide – National forest opportunities.
• U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service: Fishing on Refuges – Refuge-specific spots.
• Fishbrain App – Community catches, forecasts, and maps.
• Navionics App – Depth charts for lakes and rivers.
• Leave No Trace for Anglers – Ethical fishing guidelines.
• State Agencies: Check your state's fish & wildlife site (e.g., Florida Fish and Wildlife for FL specifics).

Ready to cast? Sign up for our newsletter for more fishing guides, exclusive tips, and updates on public lands advocacy. Use code NOTONEACRE for 20% off gear like our hats, stickers, or deer skull t-shirt—perfect for the water's edge. Fish sustainable, protect public lands!