If your back-to-school packing list starts with a rod, reel, and tackle box, you’re going to love these universities. College may be a time to explore your career options and prepare to live independently, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have opportunities to head out to a nearby honey hole. Consider one of these 27 schools near fishing spots to apply as a student and unwind as an angler.
Best Fishing Schools in the Northeast
1. Penn State University
With about 88,914 students enrolled, Penn State is a popular school located in State College, Pennsylvania. It’s also home to the Penn State bass fishing club, which is sponsored by Bass Pro Shop. Penn State starts the list of schools near fishing spots off right thanks to nearby Spring Creek, Black Moshannon Lake, and Penn’s Creek.
Penn State Bass Fishing Club calls this college home and continually gets recognition for being one of the top-tier fishing teams in the U.S.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near Penn State University
Flyfisher’s Paradise
TCO Fly Fishing
Lakewoods Outdoor Supply
Fishing & Honey Holes Near By
Spring Creek
Bald Eagle Lake
Whipple Dam State Park
Poe Valley State Park
Penns Creek
Spruce Creek
2. Unity College
Unity, Maine is the home to Unity College and about 2,923 students. It’s known as America’s Environmental College and boasts Unity Pond, which is loaded with smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and black crappie. You can also take a short trip to Lake St. George or out to the coast of Maine.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near Unity College
Harvest Time Baits
Bait Bucket
Gr8ful Bait n Tackle
Fishing & Honey Holes Near By
Lake Winnecook / Unity Pond
Sandy Stream
Halfmoon Stream
Carlton Stream
Carlton Pond
3. Paul Smith’s College
Paul Smiths, New York, is home to this college with one of the largest campuses in the world. This large campus is located in Adirondack Park and has an enrollment of 668 students. Take your pick of fishing spots in the area, including Higley Flow State Park, Point Au Roches State Park, and Coles Creek State Park.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near Paul Smith’s College
Woods & Waters, Saranac Lake, NY
Adirondack Lakes & Trails Outfitters, Saranac Lake, NY
Blue Line Sports, Saranac Lake, NY
Fishing & Honey Holes Near By
Lower Saint Regis Lake
Osgood Pond
Barnum Pond
Spitfire Lake
Lake Flower
Lower Saranac Lake
4. Yale University
One of the most prestigious schools near fishing spots in the nation, Yale University has 4,664 undergraduate students from 120 different countries. While you’re sure to be busy with your studies, there’s always time for a quick trip to Maltby Lakes, East Shore Park, or Sleeping Giant State Park. Look for snapper blues, flatfish, bluefish, and striped bass.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near Yale University
Dee’s Bait and Tackle
QRM Bait and Tackle Shop
Some-Things Fishy
Fishing & Honey Holes Near By
Battle Ground Lake
Fargher Pond
Klineline Pond
Canyon Creek
Lacamas and Round Lakes
Columbia River
Long Wharf Park
East Shore Park
Best Fishing Schools in the Southeast
1. Louisiana State University
Home to a student body of 35,914 students, Louisiana State University is notable among the biggest academic institutions in the Southeast. Beyond LSU’s many great academic and athletic programs, it is a prime spot for a variety of different fishing as the school is located in the bayou and has the Gulf of Mexico within moderate driving distance. At the local Bayou Baton Rouge, students will be able to hook and reel in a variety of different catfish and bass.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near LSU
Superior Bait and Tackle
Favaro’s Rod and Reel Repair Shop
H&H Lure Co
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Milford Wampold Memorial Park
Blackwater Conservation Area
City Park Lake
University Lake
North Sherwood Forest Community Park Lake
2. University of Alabama
With 38,320 students and an established bass fishing team, The University of Alabama is a great school for anglers looking to pursue a degree. Spring is when the fishing culture in Tuscaloosa truly shines, check out great fishing spots such as Hurricane Creek Park, Lake Tuscaloosa or the Oliver Dam Fishing Pier for a chance to reel in some bluegill, crappie and a variety of bass. The University of Alabama Bass Fishing Team resides on campus and competes in different tournaments around the region.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near The University of Alabama
Crimson Pride Fishing and Hunting
Woods and Water Inc
Buster’s Bait and Tackle
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Oliver Dam Fishing Pier
Van De Graaff Park and Arboretum
Hurricane Creek Park
Lake Lurleen State Park
Lake Tuscaloosa
Holt Lock and Dam
Black Warrior River
Northwood Lake
3. North Carolina State University
Boasting a student body of over 36,000 undergraduate and graduate students, there are a number of ways to get involved in the local Raleigh fishing scene. Whether you enjoy being part of an organized fishing club or discovering local spots for yourself, be sure to check out some hot spots like Lake Johnson Park, Shelley Lake Park, or Durant Nature Reserve.
The BassPack Fishing Club started back in 2006 and has won three national championships for their school! Learn how to bass fish and compete against colleges in national tournaments.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near NC State
Bayleaf USA Live Bait and Tackle
Great Outdoor Provision Co.
Orvis
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
William B. Umstead State Park
Lake Johnson
Jordan Lake
Shelley Lake
Little Beaver Creek
Lake Raleigh
4. University of Miami
It goes without saying that the fishing scene in Florida is remarkable. Join a population of over 17,000 students and journey to many local spots in the greater Coral Gables area such as Pelican Harbor Marina or South Pointe Park Pier for some tropical game including tarpon and clown knife fish.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near The University of Miami
Kendall Bait and Tackle Inc
Miami Fishing Supply, Inc
Rampway Bait and Tackle Store
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Miami Airport Lakes
Lake Ida, Delray Beach
Biscayne Bay
Matheson Hammock Park
Tropical Park
David T. Kennedy Park
5. Appalachian State University
With around 18,000 undergraduate students, Appalachian State University is a rapidly growing university located in Boone, North Carolina. Discover a number of local hidden gems for a chance to catch some smallmouth bass, trout and walleye
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near Appalachian State University
Boone’s Fly Shop
High Country Guide Service
Due South Outfitters
Foscoe Fishing Co & Outfitters
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Bass Lake
Price Lake
Payne Branch Park
Sterling Creek Park
Todd Island Park
Trout Lake
6. Sewanee: The University of the South
With a small but notably diverse population of 1,735 undergraduates, Sewanee is a great school with even greater local fishing. Be sure to check out popular honey holes such as The Douglas Reservoir, French Broad River and Falls Creek Falls State Park.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near Sewanee: University of the South
The Sportsman Bait Shop
Fox Trading Post
Barton Springs Grocery and Bait
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Lake Cheston
Lake Dimmick
Tims Ford Lake and Reservoir
The Falls At Sewanee Creek
Jackson Lake
Delly Hole
7. College of Charleston
With its rich history and student body of 9,942 undergraduates, Charleston is known for great fishing for both saltwater and freshwater. Book a charter to reel in red drum, flounder or even sharks, or check out Mount Pleasant Pier and James Island County Park for some great fishing at the shore. Fishing is great year-round, but make sure to take advantage of peak season from July to September.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near College of Charleston
Haddrell’s Point Tackle
West Marine
Fishin’ Duck
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Mt. Pleasant Pier
Pitt Street Bridge
Copahee Sound
Santee State Park
Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve
Colonial Lake
Lake Wateree
Whitewater River
8. Southern Methodist University
A private school located in Dallas, Texas, Southern Methodist University has a strong student population of 12,385. Grab a rod and head to local honey holes White Rock Lake, Williams Park, or Gore Park.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near Southern Methodist University
Joe’s Bait and Tackle
Mona Glaser
Fishin’ World
Fishing and Honey Holes Nearby
White Rock Lake
Lakeside Park
Turtle Creek Park
Gore Park
Williams Park
Best Fishing Schools in the Midwest
1. University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh
Located so close to the great lakes it should be no surprise that the University of Wisconsin has a great fishing scene. Join the student body of 14,267 undergraduates and indulge in year-round fishing, yes that includes ice fishing as well. Some notable local spots include the Rainbow Park Fishing Pier as well as Lake Michigan and Lake Winnebago.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh
Fox River Bait and Tackle
FISH TALES Bait, Tackle & Coffee
Possums Baitshop and Antiques
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Asylum Point County Park
Little Lake Butte Des Morts
Lighthouse Harbor
Rainbow Park on Fox River
Menominee Park
William Steiger Park
2. Lake Superior State University
A smaller school perfect for degree-seeking anglers, Lake Superior State University has a student body of about 2,000 students. There are a number of different options for fishing in the area, both incredibly local as well as a few hours away. Take advantage of Michigan’s upper peninsula by visiting St. Mary’s River, Rotary Island Park, Lake Superior or Lake Huron.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near Lake Superior University
Bait Box
Superior Fly Angler
HiWay Variety Outfitters
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Saint Marys Falls
Ottertail Lake
Viddian Creek
Rotary Island Park
Pendills Creek
Brimley Bay
Lake George
Munuscong Bay
3. South Dakota State University
Join 11,465 students and get involved right away with South Dakota State University’s American Fisheries Society Student Subunit. If organized fishing is not your thing, feel free to check out local attractions such as Lake Herman State Park, Oakwood Lakes State Park, or the Sandy Shore Recreation Area.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near South Dakota State University
Porter’s Bait Farm
Dakota Wholesale Bait
Proud Angler Bait and Tackle
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Lake Herman State Park
Lake Cochrane Recreation Area
Split Rock Creek State Park
Lake Poinsett
Lake Madison
Lake Campbell
Lake Sinai
4. University of Nebraska
With a 2021 student enrollment of 24,431, the University of Nebraska is a rapidly growing Midwest University that hosts some of the greatest fall season fishing around. Take advantage of beautiful local spots including Holmes Lake, Bowling Lake, or the Pawnee State Recreation Area. Some local target fish are pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass and channel catfish.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near University of Nebraska
Wolf Tackle Shop
Festers Bait and Tackle
Geno’s Minnow Mart
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Middle Creek
Oak Lake
Antelope Creek
Oak Creek
Haines Branch
Bowling Lake
Holmes Lake
5. Ohio University
With a massive enrollment of 28,770, Ohio University gives student anglers everything they could ask for in terms of freshwater fishing. Athens, Ohio is home to popular freshwater bodies including Sells Park, Dow Lake, Fox Lake Wildlife Area and The Hocking River. Bring your reel and go hook some channel catfish and largemouth bass.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near Ohio University
East County Bait and Tackle
Walmart
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Hocking River
Strouds Run State Park
Clear Creek Metro Park
Lake Hope State Park
Lake Logan State Park
Fox Lake Wildlife Area
6. Winona State University
Join 6,400 Undergraduate students in the beautiful Winona area which is surrounded by pockets of fresh water. Check out Mud Lake, Lake Winona, and Bartlett Lake to reel in some trout, bass and walleye.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near Winona State University
Backwater Custom Tackle
Tri-State Bait and Tackle
Emma’s Bait Shop
Fishing and Honey Holes Nearby
Pleasant Valley Creek
Yeomans Pond
Hunters Lake
Indian Channel
Gilmore Creek
Merrick State Park
Perrot State Park
Best Fishing Schools in the Northwest
1. Boise State University
With an enrollment of 24,103 students, Boise State University is located in the middle of prime fishing country for those looking to reel in some of the finest freshwater species in the Northwest. Check out established local spots such as Swan Falls Dam, Hells Canyon and South Fork Boise River for your chance at sturgeon and chinook salmon.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near Boise State University
Angler’s Fly Shop
Idaho Angler
The Tackle Shop
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Arrowrock Reservoir
C.J. Strike Reservoir
Swan Falls Dam
Esther Simplot Pond
Kleiner Pond
South Fork Boise River
Crane Falls Lake
Cove Arm Lake
2. Oregon State University
Boasting a massive student body of 34,108 students in 2021, Oregon State University is one of the most popular schools in the Pacific Northwest for a number of reasons. Go angling for trout at Adair Pond, Cronemiller Lake or Alsea River.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near Oregon State University
Watershed Fly Shop
Stabi Dave’s Bait and Tackle
Shrimp Daddy’s Bait and Tackle Shack
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Cronemiller Lake
E.E. Wilson Pond
Frazier Creek
Adair Pond
Willamette River
Marys River
3. University of Alaska, Anchorage
With a current enrollment of 11,398, University of Alaska, Anchorage is the true destination for degree seeking anglers. Here you are able to pick up fly fishing for credit hours, join the fishing team, or simply indulge in your own adventure to local streams, Bird Creek Access or Little Campbell. Even book a charter to venture to the depths of the Gulf of Alaska.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near University of Alaska, Anchorage
Alaska Bait Co
The Bait Shack
Kodiak Custom Fishing Tackle
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Campbell Point Lake
Jewel Lake
Sand Lake
Kenai River
Kasilof River
Russian River
Moose River
Ninilchik River
4. University of Washington
With 44,939 students there are a number of ways to get involved with local fishing at the University of Washington. Take advantage of peak season which lasts from July to sometime between October and December and be sure to get out during odd years for your chance to reel in pink salmon. Notable fishing spots in the area include Belvoir Place, West Seattle Bridge Trail Fishing Dock, or book a charter to explore the Pacific Ocean for trophy catches.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near The University of Washington
Silver Horde Fishing Supplies
Patrick’s Fly Shop
Seattle Marine and Fishing Supply Co
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Lake Washington
Green Lake
Bitter Lake
Haller Lake
Puget Sound
Duwamish-Green River
5. University of Montana
Missoula, Montana is the ideal destination for students that enjoy fishing year-round. Become a fly fisherman at Blue Ribbon Stream, or head to Georgetown Lake for some trout fishing. As a student, you’ll join a university with an enrollment of 10,106.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near University of Montana
The Missoulian Angler Fly Shop
Kingfisher Flyshop
Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Clark Fork River
Blackfoot River
Rock Creek
Georgetown Lake
Flathead Lake
Placid Lake State Park
Salmon Lake State Park
Seeley Lake
Best Fishing Schools in the Southwest
1. University of Colorado
With a 2021 enrollment of 29,511 undergraduates, it is no secret that The University of Colorado leads the pack for scenic college campuses. You won’t have to travel far to fantastic fishing spots like Fourmile Creek for a shot to catch and release rainbow trout and largemouth bass.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near University of Colorado
Rocky Mountain Anglers
Granby Bait N Tackle
Colorado Tackle Pro
Fishing & Honey Holes Nearby
Walden Ponds Wildlife Habitat
Gross Reservoir
Barker Meadow Reservoir
Golden Ponds Park & Nature Area
Harper Lake
2. University of the Pacific
With a student body of 4,480, the University of the Pacific is a small private institution located in Stockton, California. Enjoy a quieter academic experience and when your studies are over grab a rod and check out some local spots.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near University of the Pacific
West Marine
H&R Bait and Tackle
Thorton Mini Market
Fishing and Honey Holes Nearby
Sandy Beach Park
Big Break Marina
Oak Grove Regional Park
Mcleod Lake
3. Brigham Young University
With an annual enrollment of 33,365, Brigham Young University is a private university, sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in Provo, Utah, this university has so much to offer in terms of fishing and recreation.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near BYU
Rocky Mountain Tackle Company
Scott’s Fly Shop
Hook Line and Sinker
Fishing and Honey Holes Nearby
Deer Creek Reservoir
Utah Lake
Vivian Park Pond
Tibble Fork Reservoir
Spanish Oaks Reservoir
Salem Pond
Highland Glen Park
4. San Diego State University
With 34,512 students enrolled, San Diego State University is a rapidly growing school that is accompanied by all kinds of aquatic ecosystems. Some notable local spots are Shoreline Park, Chollas Lake Park, and even grab a charter for a chance to reel in some tuna.
Best Bait & Tackle Shops Near San Diego State University
Lemon Grove Bait and Tackle
Squidco Fishing
Hook’d Bait and Tackle
Fishing and Honey Holes Nearby
Dixon Lake
Lake Miramar
Lake Murray
El Capitan Reservoir
Otay Lake
San Vicente Reservoir
Santee Lakes
