lifejacket kayaker

Fish From a Canoe or Kayak

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Paddling in Kentucky


​​Kentucky has a stunning variety of water resources for the paddling enthusiast. From the slow meanders of the western streams to the invigorating white-water of the Appalachians, Kentucky has it all. Explore the scenic remoteness of the Big South Fork or discover the historic trade routes of the Green River. Fish for a wide variety of sportfish or just enjoy a lazy afternoon float trip with the family. Kentucky is truly a paddler's paradise.

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and other agencies have developed a number of guides to assist you with planning your next adventure. A list of them can be found on this page with descriptions and links for further exploration. Get outside and enjoy the natural beauty of Kentucky's waterways.​

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Kayak Fishing​​ 101 - Frankfort, KY (Three-Part Series)

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  • Date: August 8, 15 , and Aug 17, 2024 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. (Eastern)​​
  • Location: KDFWR Headquarters, ​​1 Sportsman’s Lane Frankfort, KY 40601
  • ​​Cost: ​Aug 8 & 15 (Free), Aug 17 ($125) 
  • Contact: Easton Copley, Easton.Copley​@ky.gov | 502-330-1411​


Mentor to Win a ​Kayak!

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Great Resources to Check Out!​​

Where to Boat in Kentucky | Download the Fish Boat Ky App

Both pages are a good place to start if you are looking for places to go.  Both contain information on boating access sites across the state and details of the facilities available at each. With quick links to Google Maps, you can plan your route and view aerial photos without leaving your house. Its search functions let you find sites by county, type, and close city. The application is made specifically for on-the-go adventures with your mobile device. Give it a try!​

Download Boat Fish App 
Where to Boat

Stream Fisheries

This page provides specific information about premier fishing streams in Kentucky. Designed for the paddling angler, it details fishing adventures for any level of skill. It includes information on river stages, distances and fish species. It also has pictures and detailed descriptions of each put-in and take-out spot. A picture gallery shows notable scenic views and examples of the fish that can be encountered.


Blue Water Trails

Developed as part of an ongoing Kentucky Afield series, the Blue Water Trails articles detail paddling trips on streams and rivers across Kentucky. They include printable maps, locations of access points, and the distances of each float. They contain a wealth of information on the major landmarks and provide a historical perspective.

 
 
 

Paddle Sports Safety Course

Want to learn about paddle sports and how to paddle safely? Take this free online course to earn your paddle sports safety certificate! 


KY Afield

The award-winning outdoor show has aired several television segments on selecting and using a kayak or canoe for fishing. As always, host Chad Miles gives educational and entertaining tips for fishing and exploring Kentucky with paddle power.

 
 
 

KY Tourism

The Kentucky Department of Travel and Tourism offers a myriad of outdoor activities for canoeing, kayaking and rafting. With a searchable listing of adventure tourism options, the site is sure to lead to Unbridled Adventure!​​​​​