Kentucky Wildland's Perfect Cast

If you’re looking for great fishing action, The Kentucky Wildlands is the perfect place for you. Home to some of the world’s premier freshwater fishing spots, this region is a must for any angler. Throughout the year, you’ll find unlimited opportunities to throw your line. Cast along cliff-lined shores, fly fish in fully stocked dams or just kick back with a rod in a tranquil state park. Whatever your style, you’re sure to make some fishing memories here.

Record-Breaking Catch

Noted as one of the most popular trout fishing destinations in the world, Cumberland River is a must-visit fly fishing destination. This wide-bodied river holds the state record catches for two species, the 21-pound brown trout and 14.6-pound rainbow trout. The flowing tailwater maintains cold trout water for over 75 miles below the Wolf Creek Dam. With the perfect elevation below the reservoirs, you can throw the ideal fly line for better chances of hauling in trout.

Fishing Dewey Lake

Looking to reel in the catch of a lifetime? Plan your next fishing trip to Dewey Lake to test out your skills. Home of the largest caught musky ever recorded in Kentucky, you’ll find a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, bluegill and, of course, musky. Located within the Jenny Wiley State Park Resort, enjoy a scenic and relaxing outing as you fish through the day. Don’t have a fishing pole? No problem! Check out the fishing loaner program the park has to sign out free equipment. Just be sure to bring your Kentucky Fishing License to partake in all the fishing fun.

A Man-Made Trout Stream

Check out Hatchery Creek, a trout fishing paradise. This completely man-made stream comes from the cold water outflow of a local hatchery. If you’re looking to catch and keep your trout, visit the Upper Hatchery Creek section. Anglers here will be allowed to keep up to five trout with no size limit. The Lower Hatchery Creek is sectioned off for regulated sport fishing with catch-and-release rules in place. Only artificial flies and lures are allowed when fishing this area. Either spot you choose, make sure to have your trout permit.

Beautiful Deep-Lake Waters

In the midst of the beautiful Daniel Boone Forest, discover Laurel River Lake, a destination favorite for visitors each year. Considered to be one of the deepest and clearest lakes in Kentucky, this 5,600-acre lake makes for the perfect fishing hole. You can catch anything from black bass and walleye to catfish and bluegill. In the summer months, try trout fishing at nighttime when the fish are more active.

Hidden Gems in the Kentucky Wildlands

Liberty Park Veteran's Wall

The Veteran’s Wall is a memorial dedicated to all U.S. Service Members from Liberty...

Asher Hunting Access Area

This area is open to hunting for statewide regulations and rules and regulations in...

Zilpo Road National Forest Scenic Byway

The Zilpo Scenic Byway is a gently curving eleven mile road with a travel time of...