Fishing Fun: 10 State Parks in Kentucky to Reel in the Big One

Sandy Allen

Sandy Allen

— 5 min read
Fishing Fun: 10 State Parks in Kentucky to Reel in the Big One
Photo: Nolin Lake State Park (Facebook)

With an abundance of lakes, rivers and reservoirs, Kentucky is a prime destination for anglers wishing to reel in a prize catch, bring home dinner or practice catch-and-release. The Bluegrass State offers plenty of scenic spots to cast your line for bass, catfish, trout and other species.

Gather your fishing gear and check out some of the best state parks in Kentucky for fishing whether you’re moored at a marina or coming from a private boat lift for rent.

1. Lake Cumberland State Resort Park

Photo: Lake Cumberland Resort State Park (Facebook)

Known as the "Houseboat Capital of the World," Lake Cumberland is one of Kentucky’s top fishing destinations. Anglers can reel in striped bass, smallmouth bass, crappie and catfish in the park’s vast 50,000-acre lake. The park, located in Jamestown, also offers boat rentals, marinas and fishing guides for an enhanced experience.  

  • Water: Freshwater 
  • Key Species: Crappie, catfish, smallmouth bass
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore

2. Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

Photo: Dale Hollow Lake State Park (Facebook)

Straddling the Kentucky-Tennessee border, Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park in Burkesville is famous for record-breaking smallmouth bass. The deep, clear waters also host largemouth bass, walleye and crappie. With a full-service marina, boat rentals and scenic shoreline fishing areas, it's a top spot for serious anglers to visit from marinas or private boat docks for rent.

  • Water: Freshwater 
  • Key Species: Smallmouth bass, walleye, crappie largemouth bass
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore

3. Green River Lake State Park

Photo: Kentucky State Parks (Facebook)

This 8,200-acre lake at Green River Lake State Park is home to largemouth bass, crappie, muskie and catfish. The Campbellsville park has ample shoreline fishing, boat ramps and a marina for easy access to prime fishing spots. The park's peaceful surroundings make it a great getaway for any angler.  

  • Water: Freshwater 
  • Key Species: Crappie, largemouth bass, catfish, muskie
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore

4. Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

Photo: Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park (Facebook)

Situated on Kentucky Lake in Gilbertsville, the largest man-made lake in the eastern U.S., Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park is a dream for anglers wishing to reel in the catch of the day. The lake is loaded with largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish. The park offers fishing piers, boat rentals and plenty of shoreline access. 

  • Water: Freshwater 
  • Key Species: Catfish, crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore

5. Barren River Lake State Resort Park

Photo: Barren River Lake State Resort Park (Facebook)

With more than 10,000 acres of water, Barren River Lake is a great spot for bass, hybrid striped bass, crappie and catfish. The Lucas park has a marina, boat ramps and bank fishing opportunities. Spring and fall are especially good seasons for catching bass.  

  • Water: Freshwater 
  • Key Species: Bass, crappie, catfish, striped bass
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore

6. Rough River Dam State Resort Park

Photo: Rough River Dam State Resort Park (Facebook)

Rough River Lake, in Falls of Rough, is a 5,100-acre fishing haven. It’s perfect for anglers looking to catch largemouth bass, crappie, white bass and catfish. The park features boat rentals, ramps, and designated bank fishing areas, making it accessible for all skill levels.

  • Water: Freshwater 
  • Key Species: White bass, catfish, crappie, largemouth bass
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore

7. Nolin Lake State Park

Photo: Nolin Lake State Park (Facebook)

Located in Mammoth Cave, Nolin Lake is known for its abundance of bass, walleye and crappie. The 5,795-acre lake near Mammoth Cave National Park is a favorite among local fishermen due to its clear waters and secluded fishing spots. The park offers boat ramps and shoreline access, making it easy to enjoy a day on the water whether trailering from a private boat lift rental or a marina.

  • Water: Freshwater 
  • Key Species: Walleye, crappie, bass
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore

8. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Photo: Wikimedia/Aaron Vowels/CC by SA 2.0

While the main attraction here is the stunning 68-foot waterfall, the Cumberland River below is a fantastic fishing spot. Anglers can catch smallmouth bass, rock bass and catfish. The park’s rugged beauty adds to the experience of fishing in this scenic location in Corbin.

  • Water: Freshwater 
  • Key Species: Rock bass, catfish, smallmouth bass
  • Fishing Type: Shore, boat, canoe, kayak

9. Yatesville Lake State Park

Photo: Kentucky State Parks (Facebook)

This lesser-known gem in Louisa is perfect for anglers looking for a quiet fishing retreat. The 2,300-acre Yatesville Lake is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie. The park provides boat ramps, a marina and plenty of secluded fishing spots along the shore.

  • Water: Freshwater 
  • Key Species: Bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore

10. Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park

Photo: Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park (Facebook)

For a mix of history and fishing, Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park is a great choice if you’re near Carlisle. The nearby Licking River is home to smallmouth bass, catfish and muskellunge. Anglers can enjoy a peaceful day on the river while exploring the area's historical significance. The area was the site of the last encounter during the Revolutionary War.

  • Water: Freshwater 
  • Key Species: Muskellunge, catfish, smallmouth bass
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore

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