Kentucky offers a diverse range of angling opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater fishing enthusiasts. Some of the top angling destinations in the state include Lake Cumberland, Kentucky Lake, and Lake Barkley. These lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities for bass, crappie, and catfish. During the summer months, the water can get quite warm, with average temperatures reaching the mid-80s. Spring and fall are usually the best times to fish these lakes, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to low 70s.

Other popular fishing spots in Kentucky include the Cumberland River, Green River, and Red River Gorge. These areas are well-known for their trout fishing, with rainbow and brown trout being the most prevalent species. The best time to fish for trout is typically in the spring and fall, when the water is cooler.

When it comes to bait and lures, anglers in Kentucky have plenty of options. For bass fishing, popular lures include spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and jigs. For trout, live bait such as worms and minnows can be effective, as well as artificial lures such as inline spinners and soft plastics.

Interesting fishing facts about Kentucky include the fact that the state holds the world record for the largest smallmouth bass, weighing in at over 11 pounds. Additionally, Kentucky is home to the only commercial paddlefish roe fishery in the country. Anglers looking for a unique fishing experience may want to consider trying their hand at paddlefish snagging, which is legal in some areas of the state during certain times of the year.