Top Fishing and Boating Locations Across the Globe

Over 220 million take part in recreational fishing each year around the world, resulting in a global fishing tourism sector that is valued at $71 billion annually and set to triple by 2033. This surge reflects how fishing is increasingly seen not just as a sport, but as a wellness-oriented and nature-based travel experience. 

To understand where anglers are actually planning their trips, DNA Baits analysed 200 global lakes, rivers and bays to identify the destinations attracting the most attention. 

DNA Baits’ study considered seven metrics, including Instagram hashtag counts and search volume data to track interest and scenic appeal, alongside travel, food and boat hire costs to assess affordability. Further metrics included average water clarity and the largest recorded catches were detailed to consider unique fishing opportunities. All factors were combined to produce a ranking of the world’s most popular scenic fishing destinations. 

Here are the key findings:

• Lake Tahoe, USA, ranks 1st as the world’s top fishing destination, with an overall score of 7.4 out of 10.

• Italy’s Lake Como and Lake Garda, Slovenia’s Lake Bled and Canada’s Lake Louise complete the top 5 fishing destinations globally.

• USA is the world’s best nation for a fishing or boat trip, with 7 American destinations in the top 20.

• Europe is home to 5 of the most popular fishing locations, with central Europe’s Lake Constance and North Macedonia’s Lake Ohrid also making the top 20 list.

• The Amazon River (Peru, Colombia, Brazil) and Lake Ohrid (North Macedonia), offer the best value fishing trips from the top 20 list, with average accommodation costing between $40 to $55 per night.

• The largest catches are linked to rivers across Asia and the Americas, with 500lb catches found in rivers in Canada, USA, South America, and across Southeast Asia. 

What are the top fishing & boating locations for 2025?

1. Lake Tahoe, USA

Lake Tahoe claims the top spot as the world’s most scenic fishing destination. Nestled between California and Nevada, this alpine lake is the most photographed fishing location in the ranking, with over 3.1 million Instagram hashtags. Its breathtaking mountain backdrops and crystal-clear waters make it a visual standout, a key factor that results in Lake Tahoe seeing 393,000 monthly Google searches – making it the second most searched destination in the ranking and reinforcing its global appeal. While accommodation averages $200 per night and the largest recorded catch is a modest 40 lbs, the area remains relatively affordable, with average food costs of just $20.

2. Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como ranks second overall, thanks to its postcard-perfect scenery, refined atmosphere, and fishing-friendly amenities. Located in Italy’s Lombardy region, this iconic lake has amassed 2.2 million Instagram hashtags and sees 365,000 monthly Google searches, making it both highly photogenic and widely searched. With clear waters, catches of up to 198 lbs, and costs of $180 per night for accommodation, $45 for daily food, and $75 per hour for boat hire, Lake Como offers a luxurious yet relatively accessible fishing experience.

3. Lake Garda, Italy

Lake Garda, another gem in northern Italy, ranks third. Surrounded by charming towns and mountainous terrain, it attracts both tourists and fishing fanatics with its 1.3 million Instagram hashtags and 132,000 monthly searches. With crystal-clear waters and large catches reaching 270 lbs, it’s a top choice for those seeking beauty and bounty. Costs are moderate, averaging $180 per night, $45 for food, and $80 per hour for boat hire.

4. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled, Slovenia’s fairytale alpine lake, ranks fourth. Surrounded by forests and a medieval island church, it combines natural charm with great fishing access. With 402,000 Instagram hashtags and 88,000 searches per month, catches of 71 lbs, and pristine waters, the Central-European spot is a highly sought-after holiday spot. It’s also one of the more budget-friendly spots, with lodging at $130, food at $40, and boat hire at just $30 per hour.

5. Lake Louise, Canada

Lake Louise ranks in fifth place and is the highest rated spot in Canada for fishing holidays, and is one of the most visually iconic spots on the list. Known for its turquoise glacier-fed waters, the lake boasts 1.2 million Instagram hashtags and receives 179,000 monthly searches. Its water clarity is top-rated, and catches can reach up to 50 lbs. However, the area is among the most expensive in the ranking, with accommodation averaging $525 per night and food at $45 per day. 

6. Fraser River, Canada
   

Fraser River, located in British Columbia, Canada ranks sixth. One of Canada’s longest rivers, Fraser River boasts 157,000 Instagram hashtags and 7,300 monthly searches, meaning it’s a lesser-known spot. Accommodation averages $300 per night, food $45 per day, and boat hire around $150/hour. While water clarity is mid-range, the river’s expansive length and natural surroundings make it a memorable location.

7. Lake Superior, USA
   

Lake Superior, straddling the USA and Canada, ranks as the 7th best destination with its vast, dramatic shorelines and very clear waters making it a striking destination for a scenic fishing trip. The lake boasts 1.2 million Instagram hashtags and 92,000 monthly searches, reflecting its significant popularity. Interestingly, Lake Superior has recorded catches of up to 310 lbs. Its average lodging costs are $120 per night, food is around $20 per day, and boat hire is $150 per hour. Ultimately, the lake’s size, varied habitats, and fishing conditions contribute to its demonstrated significance for anglers.

8. Lake Constance, Austria / Germany / Switzerland 

Lake Constance, located across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, ranks 8th with its crystal-clear waters and scenic lakeside towns. With 348,000 Instagram hashtags and 16,000 monthly searches, it’s a popular yet peaceful destination. Accommodation averages $155 per night, food $45 per day, and boat hire is relatively affordable at $35/hour. Its top-rated water clarity and central European charm both contribute to its popularity among anglers.

9. Caddo Lake, USA

Caddo Lake, located along the Texas-Louisiana border, stands out for its cypress-lined waters and swampy landscapes. Ranking 9th overall, it is the most searched fishing destination in the study, with 418,000 monthly searches. The lake currently has 5,000 Instagram hashtags, reflecting a more modest social media presence for such a distinctive spot. Travellers spending time here can expect average accommodation costs of $220 per night, daily food around $40, and boat hire at $35 per hour.

10. Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia

Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia rounds out the top 10. It comes as no surprise that one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes draws in a huge 77,600 Instagram hashtags and 11,000 monthly searches, with its natural beauty contributing to its strong online presence. It offers some of the most affordable stays among the lakes, averaging $55 per night for accommodation, with daily food costs of $10 and boat hire at $38 per hour. While its catch size is more modest, its perfect water clarity score draws in tourists from all over the world. 

Top Global Destinations of Record-Breaking Freshwater Catches

1. Fraser River, Canada – record catch: 1,832 lbs

The Fraser River in British Columbia, Canada, is known for its giant White Sturgeon, with multiple catches of the ancient, armour-plated fish recorded over 1,000 lbs, and some tipping the scales at nearly 1,900 lbs. Beyond sturgeon, the Fraser is renowned for its salmon runs, especially Chinook and Sockeye, which play a significant role in its ecosystem.

2. Parana River, Brazil / Paraguay / Argentina – record catch: 661 lbs

Flowing through Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina, the Paraná River is a large, dynamic waterway known for its strong currents and large predatory fish. Anglers here have historically targeted the powerful Manguruyu Catfish, with catches recorded up to 661 lbs. The river’s vast network of channels, flooded forests, and backwaters play a key role in defining its fishing environment. 

3. Sacramento River, USA – record catch: 468 lbs

California’s Sacramento River is a major waterway that supports a huge range of species, including White Sturgeon, Striped Bass, and King Salmon, with record catches reaching 468 lbs. Stretching from Mount Shasta to the San Francisco Bay, the river provides varied freshwater habits and scenic backdrops. Average visitor costs to spots along the river are around $90 per night for lodging and $15 per day for food.

4. Brahmaputra River, India / Bangladesh / China – record catch: 459 Ibs

The Brahmaputra River flows through the wild and remote landscapes of South Asia and China, where it is home to species such as the mighty Pangas Catfish, recorded at 459 lbs. The river offers rich biodiversity, set against a dramatic backdrop of Himalayan foothills and lush forested banks.

5. Lake Tanganyika, Burundi / Democratic Republic of Congo / Tanzania / Zambia – record catch: 419

Lake Tanganyika, located throughout Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania and Zambia, is home to species such as the Kukumai Catfish, with records of the fish weighing in at 419 lbs. Recognised as the world’s longest freshwater lake, it is also the second-largest by volume and the second-deepest overall. The lake has appeared in 48,800 Instagram hashtags, reflecting the level of attention it has received among visitors.

Planning your next fishing trip? Discover the best fishing spots and gear up with top-quality bait from DNA Baits – trusted by serious anglers for proven results.

Methodology

To analyse the world’s most scenic fishing spots, DNA Baits identified over 200 water-based tourist spots globally where fishing and boating activities can take place. Once a seed list was developed, 7 key data metrics were identified to produce a ranking list.

• Google search volume was taken using Ahrefs Google Search Tools.

• Average costs per night figures and average daily food costs were taken from Numbeo’s Cost of Living index.

• Boat costs were taken from sites including Click and Boat as well as individual site searches

• Largest catches were taken from publicly available records, such as the International Game Fish Association Freshwater Fishing World Records Database, on top of individual site searches.

• To provide a water clarity rating, the research ranked water clarity from a score between 1-5, with 1 = clear; 2 = clear but with some turbidity; 3 =  moderately clear; 4 = moderate to turbid; 5 = Poor.

• Finally, a data ranking was produced that weighted the largest catch metric at 1.5x the score of other metrics to ensure that the ranking continued to promote destinations where high-quality fishing opportunities were available.