The state of California is a popular travel destination for fishermen from around the world. California's 3,130 lakes, rivers, and ponds, in addition to the nearby Pacific Ocean, can all provide a fishing adventure for every taste. Bass or giant stripers can be caught at Lake Costaic, trout can be found in Bishop Lake, largemouth bass are abundant at Big Bear Lake, or you can fish for coho salmon at Lake Shasta. Whatever your fishing goals are, California is the perfect place for you.

California is a fishing paradise for anyone, from the family with kids to the competitive, savvy fisherman. Here are some of the best fishing locations around the state to help you make your next fishing trip the as exciting as possible.

Lake Cosita is located about 78 miles from Los Angeles and is regarded as a "bass fisherman's heaven." Striped bass fishing is best at Lake Castaic, situated in the mountains of southern California.

Northern California offers the best scenery and variety of fish at Lake Shasta, located near the Sacramento area. You can fish here year round for salmon, trout, bass, and catfish. Visit Lake Tahoe for the unforgettable experience of fishing while surrounded by the unsurpassed views. If you are an experienced hiker or enjoy mountain biking, take a 2.5 mile uphill trip on an old flume trail to Lake Marlette. There are no cars or motor vehicles are allowed at the lake and you will have to carry all of the gear, but the trek is definitely worth it. Lake Marlette was closed for fishing for 30 years and the first time it was opened for fishing was in the summer of 2008. Anglers claim that each and every cast you make there results in 2 to 3 rainbow trout chasing the lure, so happy fishing.