Whether it’s in search of bass, crappie or catfish, in pursuit of trophies or dinner, with your best buddy or three generations of family, fishing is a treasured tradition in Alabama. The Alabama Bass Trail has earned a reputation as home to a top-notch tournament series and record-setting catches. But that reputation was built on the foundation of a love of fishing here, plain and simple.

Generations of anglers have fished the waters of the 13 lakes along the trail. Fathers and sons on the water and families fishing from the banks have led to treasured reunions and raucous storytelling. As the re-telling gets more dramatic, the memories get sweeter and the traditions live on.

From the variety of landscapes along the impoundments in North Alabama to the lush habitat of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, the variety of fishing options in Alabama is seemingly endless. We’re home to one of the most biodiverse fisheries in the country and our lakes have been hailed among America’s Best Bass Fishing Lakes and Ponds by USA Today,  as the Crappie Capital of the World and the Bass Fishing Capital of the World.

Those are all outstanding reasons to visit this trail and to fish Alabama waters. But what we hear from our most devoted anglers is that it’s time well spent. Time with friends. Time with families. Sharing traditions with grandchildren. Making memories that will last much longer than the thrill of the catch. That’s Alabama’s real fishing legacy.

Get out and enjoy the waters and the good times with your crew. There are plenty places to stay and attractions to visit nearby. And there’s plenty of fun to be had on the water. Get out there and enjoy it.