Scouting New Fishing Spots: A Practical Guide

Finding new fishing spots is a mix of strategy, curiosity, and persistence. Whether you’re after secluded honey holes or just want to increase your options for changing seasons, scouting is a key skill every angler should develop. This guide will walk you through the best practices for discovering, evaluating, and remembering great fishing locations—so you can always have a plan B (or C) on your next trip.

Leverage Modern Tools

Google Maps & Satellite Imagery
Start your scouting journey at home with Google Maps or other satellite imagery. Scan the map for public access points, creeks, small ponds, bridges, culverts, and even roadside pull-offs that might lead to hidden gems. Make sure to save pins for any promising locations you spot, and organize them by type (wade, kayak, bank, etc.).

Pro Tip: Use the "Your Places" feature in Google Maps to create custom lists and add notes about each spot.

Plan a Dedicated Scout Day

Instead of combining scouting with a full day of fishing, set aside a day just for exploring. Pick several locations close to each other and map out your route. Bring your basic fishing gear—you might stumble onto some action—but focus on observation. Take photos, make notes, and evaluate the access, safety, and likely fish-holding features of each spot.

• Check for signs of fish: look for baitfish, jumping fish, or signs of feeding.
• Notice obstacles: private property, fences, “no fishing” signs, or limited parking.
• Assess access: is it easy to wade, launch, or walk in?

Remember: sometimes you won’t catch much on your first visit. That’s normal—think of scouting as an investment in future trips.

Make Notes and Observe

Every spot has potential, but it can take multiple visits to unlock its secrets. After each scout, jot down details:

• Water clarity and depth
• Structure: rocks, wood, weeds, docks
• Wildlife activity: birds, baitfish, even alligators
• Human activity: is it crowded or quiet?
• Time of year and weather

Try each spot in different seasons and conditions. Many locations fish better at certain tides, water levels, or times of year.

Tap Local Knowledge

Don’t overlook the value of local intel. Visit nearby bait and tackle shops—these shops are often staffed by knowledgeable anglers who know which areas are producing and when. Even a vague tip or casual conversation can set you in the right direction, especially if you’re new to the area.

• Ask specific questions, like, “Where are people wading lately?” or “Any good bank access near here?”
• Pay attention to posted reports or local fishing boards.

Look for the Unmarked and Uncrowded

The best fishing spots are rarely the most obvious. Pay attention to:

• Birds feeding or diving in a certain area
• Hidden paths, small bridges, or unmarked pull-offs
• Remote boat ramps or kayak launches that are hard to find online

Off-the-beaten-path locations often produce less pressured fish and unique experiences.

Patience Pays Off

Scouting requires persistence. Not every new spot will be a jackpot on your first visit, but don’t cross it off your list after one slow trip. Patterns change, and sometimes the potential is only revealed under the right conditions.

Stay patient, keep notes, and rotate through your discovered spots as the seasons change. Over time, you’ll develop a reliable “playbook” of locations for any scenario.