The Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) and its Take Me Fishing™ campaign have announced the Top 10 Mom-Approved Places to Boat and Fish. The full list of 50 – nominated by state fish and wildlife agencies and curated by moms –- was further narrowed down to the Top 10 by nearly 32,000 votes from across the United States.
“The list of Top Mom-Approved Places to Fish and Boat is a great guide for moms, kids and everyone looking to get out on the water,” said RBFF VP of Communications Stephanie Vatalaro. “Creating awareness and facilitating access to resources for young anglers and their families is a key component to achieving our 60 in 60 goal.”
This year’s list represents a full spectrum of our nation’s diverse bodies of water, from a river in Alaska to a lake in the heart of the Midwest to a bay on the shores of Hawaii. Each of the Top 10 Mom-Approved Place feature family-friendly amenities such as recreation areas, picnic shelters, nearby parking, boat launches, safe water access and of course, plenty of fish to catch.
Top 10 Mom-Approved Places to Boat and Fish:
1. Eklutna Tailrace, Alaska. 25 miles north of Anchorage, Eklutna Tailrace is comprised of an eddy of water that connects to the main stem of the Knik River. Easy access has made this one of the most popular spots to fish for king salmon.
2. Lake Cumberland, Kentucky. Lake Cumberland is often referred to as “The Houseboat Capital of the World.” The marina offers 100 open slips, rental fishing boats, pontoon boats, houseboats, and ski boats.
3. Lake Ogallala, Nebraska. While Lake Ogallala is just 320 acres, it is a well-known rainbow trout fishing destination. All boats are permitted, but Lake Ogallala is a no-wake lake. There are two boat ramps and two boat docks available.
4. Lake Piney Z, Florida. Lake Piney Z is a 193-acre lake in Tallahassee that is part of the Lafayette Chain of Lakes. Small boats can launch from the Lake Lafayette Boat Launch to access Lake Piney Z.
5. Little Beaver Lake, West Virginia. Little Beaver Lake is an 18-acre impoundment located in Little Beaver State Park near Daniels where anglers can catch largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish.
6. Lake Havasu, Arizona. Lake Havasu is a large reservoir that was formed by Parker Dam on the Colorado River, along the California-Arizona border. There are several marinas and ramps on the lake that provide access. Or, you can launch for free at the Lake Havasu City municipal launch ramp.
7. Backbone State Park, Iowa. Known for its trout and channel catfish angling opportunities, Backbone Lake at Backbone State Park covers 80 acres in Delaware County. Access is provided by a boat ramp that is located near the southwest end of the lake
8. Yosemite National Park, California. All lakes other than Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and some rivers are open to non-motorized vessels. Many visiting anglers target rainbow trout and brown trout.
9. Pōka’ī Bay, Hawaii. Located on the island of Oahu, Pōka’ī Bay is less than a one-hour drive from Honolulu. The bay offers boating, scenic views, wildlife, and fishing.
10. Grand Isle State Park, Louisiana. Grand Isle serves as a breakwater between the Gulf and inland channels that connect to the bayou tributaries of the Mississippi River. This park is the ideal launching point for boaters who plan to head out on a deep-sea fishing adventure.
You’ll find that these 10 spots are the perfect venues for newcomers to begin their fishing and boating adventures.
