River fishing is one of the most peaceful and rewarding ways to spend time outdoors. As the current flows and the water sparkles, you never know what you’ll hook next. Unlike ponds or lakes, rivers offer a unique mix of fast-moving and still spots—perfect for a variety of freshwater fish.
Whether you’re fishing from the bank, a small boat, or a quiet bend in the woods, here are some of the most common fish you might reel in when fishing in a river.
🐟 1. Trout
Trout love cold, oxygen-rich water, often found in mountain rivers or shaded streams.
🎯 What to Know:
- Popular types: Rainbow, brown, and brook trout
- Where to find: Deep pools, riffles, and under overhanging trees
- Bait/lure: Worms, flies, small spinners
👉 Trout are known for their quick strikes and beautiful colors. A favorite among fly fishers.
🐟 2. Bass
Rivers are home to both largemouth and smallmouth bass, though smallmouth prefer rocky, cooler streams.
🎯 What to Know:
- Where to find: Around rocks, logs, and near slow-moving pools
- Bait/lure: Crankbaits, plastic worms, jigs
👉 Bass put up a strong fight, making them a thrilling catch for any angler.
🐟 3. Catfish
These bottom-feeders are found in deeper sections of rivers and are often more active at night.
🎯 What to Know:
- Where to find: Under bridges, near drop-offs, or muddy areas
- Bait: Chicken liver, worms, dough bait
👉 Known for their size and strength. Use a sturdy rod and reel!
🐟 4. Bluegill & Sunfish
Small but fun to catch, these colorful fish are great for beginners and kids.
🎯 What to Know:
- Where to find: Shallow, calm water near shorelines
- Bait: Worms, crickets, small jigs
👉 These fish may be small, but they’re feisty and always hungry.
🐟 5. Crappie
Often found in schools, crappie are great for filling up your cooler on a good day.
🎯 What to Know:
- Where to find: Near submerged trees, brush piles, or bridge pilings
- Bait: Minnows, small jigs, or soft plastics
👉 Early morning and dusk are prime times for crappie fishing.
🐟 6. Carp
Large, strong, and challenging—carp are often underrated by sport fishers.
🎯 What to Know:
- Where to find: Slow-moving areas, muddy bottoms, or near vegetation
- Bait: Corn, bread dough, or specially made carp bait
👉 Patience pays off with carp. They’re clever and strong fighters.
🐟 7. Perch
These are smaller, schooling fish that are great for consistent action and delicious meals.
🎯 What to Know:
- Where to find: Clear, slow-flowing water with sandy or gravel bottoms
- Bait: Worms, minnows, small jigs
👉 They bite quickly and are a great option for light tackle fishing.
🐟 8. Walleye
A prized fish for both its taste and challenge, walleye prefer cooler rivers with structure.
🎯 What to Know:
- Where to find: Near bends, rocks, and below dams
- Bait/lure: Jigs, crankbaits, minnows
👉 Walleye tend to feed more during low-light hours—early morning or evening.
✅ Quick Tips for River Fishing
- Go early or late: Many river fish are more active during sunrise and sunset.
- Move around: Try different spots like pools, bends, and under bridges.
- Use natural bait: Especially in clear or lightly fished areas.
- Check your line: Rocks and currents can wear it down faster than you think.
🌊 Final Thought
River fishing is an adventure with every cast. Whether you’re after trout in mountain streams or casting for catfish in a slow-moving bend, the variety of fish in rivers keeps things exciting.
All you need is some simple gear, a bit of bait, and a quiet spot by the water—and you might just find your new favorite way to unwind.