An Official Website of the Commonwealth of Kentucky
If you have further questions about upcoming programs, please email Easton.Copley@ky.gov or call our info center at 1-800-858-1549.
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Welcome to the world of fishing! You are about to join the ranks of thousands of like-minded anglers - some of the best conservationists on earth. Each of them started right where you are today... as a beginner.
Check out the Loaner Fishing Pole Locations map to find Loaner Fishing Poles near you!
We have outlined the step-by-step basics below and linked you to some great content to get you on the water, wetting a line! Additional resources are listed at the bottom of the page, including information about upcoming classes.
Current rules and regulations can be found on our current Fishing and Boating Guide.
Before you venture out, make sure that you have your current fishing license on hand. You can get buy it at most sporting good stores, or via our online license sales.
Do I need a fishing license?
If you are over the age of 16 and not fishing on your own property, then yes.
We are so lucky to have access to some amazing bodies of water in Kentucky. To find a place to fish close to you, use the links below:
Fishing in Neighborhoods
Use this equipment list to help plan and prepare for successful fishing in Kentucky.
Must Do's
Rods & Reels
Safety & Other Gear
Catfish
Need Help to ID Fish? Check out Our Fishing page.
Bluegill, Crappie, and Trout
Large and Smallmouth Bass
White Bass
Practice makes perfect so get out and give it a try! Below are some videos that may help improve your fishing skills:
Knot Tying:
How to Tie Improved Clinch Knot
How to Remove Line Twist
Casting:
How to Cast a Spinning Rod
Flipping and Pitching
Landing:
How To Reel In A Fish
How to Land a Fish
Hooking:
How to Set the Hook
Make it "O-FISH-al" and tag us in your harvest pics with #FishKY!
You caught the fish, taken pictures... only one more thing to do before you can eat it.
How to Fillet a Fish - Freshwater
Hook and Cook is an educational class geared towards adults ages 16+ on the basics of fishing, meat preparation, and cooking. Most of these workshops are at FINS lakes where the department stocks fish several times a year. In this class you will learn everything from tying a proper fishing knot to preparing fish for cooking and storage, along with other useful skills for an enjoyable day on the water. We teach you the basic skills necessary to harvest your own fish and where to find a fishing hole near you!
For updates and future classes, please check out the Hook and Cook page!
Are you a new angler looking to filet and cook your fish for the first time? We are host a webinar series for you! In this three-part series, you will learn where to fish, how to catch panfish, and how to cook it!
Don't miss this chance to learn how to HOOK IT & COOK IT!
Kayak fishing 101 is an informative class for adults 16+ that covers basic fishing, basic kayak skills/ safety and how to put the two sets of skills together. This usually consist of a two or three part class that includes a kayak fishing trip. We do provide the equipment necessary for these classes so don't let that stop you from joining in on the fun!
Kayak Fishing 101 - Frankfort, KY (Three-Part Series)
Learn the basics of fishing, including rod and reel setup, knot tying, and how to cast! The second class will be about the basics of kayaking and kayak safety. Join us to demo some boats and learn to fish! By attending this class you get the opportunity to join us for a guided float trip with Canoe KY on May 18th. Please Note: All equipment will be provided. Must have a valid fishing license. Float Trip on May 18th is optional. The event is for Ages 16+.
Join the department as we host a series on getting started in Kayak fishing. In this three-part series, you'll learn all the basics including: boat selection, planning a safe float trip, and how to fish from a kayak effectively.