The 11 best apps for finding fishing spots on mobile

Finding the perfect fishing spot can be a pain, but with the right app, it doesn't have to be! There are tons of apps out there that can help you find the best places to cast your line, whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out. These apps have features like detailed maps, user-submitted reports, and even weather forecasts to help you plan your next fishing trip.

Three of the most popular apps for finding fishing spots are Fishbrain, Fishing Points, and Navionics® Boating. These apps provide a ton of information, from local fishing reports and fishing spot reviews to sonar data and detailed maps. With these apps in your pocket, you'll be able to find the perfect fishing spot in no time.

App Logo Available On Reviews Downloads Features
1. Fishbrain Fishbrain Icon Android, iOS 4.1/5 9M+ Neue Angelplätze finden, Lokale Infos erhalten, Mit Anglern vernetzen
2. Fishing Points Fishing Points Icon Android, iOS 4.5/5 7M+ Detaillierte Angelvorhersagen, Umfassende Angelkarten
3. Navionics® Boating Navionics® Boating Icon Android, iOS 3.3/5 6M+ Offline-Karten, SonarChart™ HD, Automatische Routen
4. FishAngler FishAngler Icon Android, iOS 5/5 1M+ Interaktive Angelkarten, Echtzeit-Angelvorhersagen
5. Fishing Spots Fishing Spots Icon Android, iOS 4.8/5 1M+ Fangstellen entdecken, Angelwettervorhersage, Fangbuch führen
6. Fishbox Fishbox Icon Android 0/5 655K+ Accurate fishing forecast, Bite time predictions, Offline maps and GPS
7. BassForecast BassForecast Icon Android, iOS 4.6/5 363K+ Accurate bite predictions, Personalized fishing forecasts
The 11 best apps for finding fishing spots on mobile

1. Fishbrain

Fishbrain Icon

Find fishing spots easily, Track catches and share, Community of anglers

Cost:

Free (Free), Fishbrain Premium ($4.99/month)


Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Sports
Downloads Over 9 million
Features Fishbrain is an app for finding fishing spots, providing detailed local info, weather forecasts, and bait recommendations, connecting you with a community of anglers, and offering catch logging and fishing journal features.
Who It’s For Anglers of all levels who want to improve their fishing experience and discover new fishing spots.
Fishbrain - Neue Angelplätze finden, Lokale Infos erhalten, Mit Anglern vernetzen
  • Tags:
  • Find Fishing Spots
  • Local Fishing Info
  • Angler Community

Fishbrain is a popular app designed to help anglers find the perfect fishing spot, but it unfortunately falls short in its execution. While the app promises to connect you with a vast community of anglers and reveal hidden gems, users have reported frustrating inaccuracies in the location data. Catch locations are often rounded to the nearest large body of water, even when the actual fishing spot is miles away. This can make it difficult to use the app for its intended purpose: pinpointing specific, productive spots. Further issues with filtering options and slow, cumbersome bait selection add to the frustration, making it a less than ideal tool for serious anglers seeking to refine their research and tracking strategies.

Pros & Cons

  • Find new fishing spots
  • Get weather forecasts
  • Provides bait recommendations
  • Connect with other anglers
  • Inaccurate location reporting
  • Poor filtering and search
  • Slow and cumbersome bait selection

Why we chose it?

Fishbrain is my go-to app for finding fishing spots because it's packed with features that make planning a fishing trip a breeze. I love the detailed maps with user-generated reports that show where people are catching fish, and the weather and water conditions information is super helpful. Plus, the community aspect is fantastic – I've connected with other anglers and even scored some tips from experienced pros.

✨ Read more: app for kayaking

2. Fishing Points

Fishing Points Icon

Detailed fishing forecasts, Interactive fishing maps, Save and share spots

Cost:

Free (Free), Premium ($4.99/month)


Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Sports
Downloads Over 7 Million
Features Fishing Points is an app for finding fishing spots, providing detailed fishing forecasts, tide and weather information, and various map types to help you locate the best fishing locations.
Who It’s For Saltwater and freshwater anglers looking for a comprehensive fishing app to improve their chances of catching fish.
Fishing Points - Detaillierte Angelvorhersagen, Umfassende Angelkarten
  • Tags:
  • Accurate Fishing Forecast
  • Detailed Fishing Maps
  • Personalized Fishing Spots

Fishing Points is a powerful app for finding fishing spots that empowers anglers to make informed decisions about where and when to cast their lines. This app goes beyond simply showing you locations, providing comprehensive fishing forecasts, tide and weather data, and even moon phase information. You can track your catches, record your favorite spots, and even set reminders for prime fishing times, making sure you never miss a chance to land a big one. While some users have suggested improvements to the data analysis and navigation features, the core functionality of Fishing Points as an app for finding fishing spots is undeniable.

Pros & Cons

  • Tracks catches and locations
  • Reliable fishing forecast app
  • Custom reminders for fishing
  • Records catches with photos
  • Difficult to determine activity
  • Clunky user interface
  • No response from developer

Why we chose it?

Fishing Points is a must-have for any angler! Its detailed fishing forecasts and interactive maps make finding the perfect spot a breeze. Plus, the real-time weather and tide information gives you the edge you need to hook those big ones!

✨ Read more: app for kayak navigation

3. Navionics® Boating

Navionics® Boating Icon

Detailed sonar chart for fishing, Locate fish-holding structures precisely

Cost:

Free (Free), Navionics+ (1 Year Subscription) ($69.99)


Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Maps & Navigation
Downloads Over 6 million downloads
Features The app offers detailed nautical charts, SonarChart™ HD bathymetry maps, Community Edits, and a host of other tools to help anglers find the perfect fishing spot.
Who It’s For Anglers, boaters, sailors, and anyone who enjoys spending time on the water.
Navionics® Boating - Offline-Karten, SonarChart™ HD, Automatische Routen
  • Tags:
  • Offline Maps
  • Advanced navigation
  • Detailed charts

Navionics® Boating is a mobile app that boasts phenomenal map data, making it a great tool for finding fishing spots. Users rave about the detailed charts, which offer a wealth of information about underwater contours, depths, and more. However, despite its strong foundation, the app suffers from usability issues. Some users complain about a clunky interface, difficulty in navigating the maps, and inaccurate GPS readings, particularly in challenging weather conditions. While the app shines in its map data, it's a shame that these shortcomings detract from the overall experience, especially considering the subscription fee.

Pros & Cons

  • Phenomenal map data
  • Detailed fishing spot info
  • Useful for local lakes
  • Community edits for updates
  • Clunky and difficult to use
  • No night mode display option
  • GPS accuracy can be unreliable

Why we chose it?

I'm a huge fan of Navionics® Boating for finding fishing spots! It's packed with detailed charts, including SonarChart™ HD bathymetry maps, which show you the underwater terrain in incredible detail. This helps me pinpoint promising spots where fish are likely to be hiding. Plus, the app lets me create custom fishing routes and mark my favorite spots, so I can easily find them again later.

✨ Read more: app for identifying saltwater fish

4. FishAngler

FishAngler Icon

Interactive fishing maps with layers, Real-time fishing forecasts and data

Cost:

Free (Free), FishAngler Pro ($9.99/month)


Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Sports
Downloads Over 1.4 million downloads
Features FishAngler is an app that lets you discover new fishing spots, get fishing forecasts, and find the best times to catch fish using interactive maps, catch location details, bait recommendations, and private groups.
Who It’s For Anglers of all levels who want to find the best fishing spots.
FishAngler - Interaktive Angelkarten, Echtzeit-Angelvorhersagen
  • Tags:
  • Accurate Fishing Forecast
  • Discover New Fishing Spots
  • Personalized Fishing Log

FishAngler is a powerful app for finding fishing spots that goes beyond simply plotting points on a map. It allows you to tap into a community of anglers, sharing catches and insights, while also providing valuable data like weather forecasts, tide charts, and even fish activity levels. The app helps you plan your fishing trips, deciding when and where to go based on real-time information, all within a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to log your catches and connect with other anglers. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, FishAngler offers a comprehensive experience to help you make the most of your fishing adventures.

Pros & Cons

  • Find fishing spots near you
  • Easy to log catch information
  • See what people nearby are catching
  • Provides weather forecasts and tide charts
  • Forecast not on homepage
  • Irrelevant posts from other locations
  • Some functionality still needed

Why we chose it?

FishAngler is my go-to app for finding the perfect fishing spot because it's packed with features that make planning a trip a breeze! I love that I can see real-time fishing forecasts, tide charts, and even wind conditions, so I know exactly when and where to cast my line. Plus, the interactive fishing maps are super helpful for finding new spots and marking my favorite ones.

✨ Read more: app for ice fishing

5. Fishing Spots

Fishing Spots Icon

Discover local fishing spots, 7-day fishing forecasts, Track catches with logbook

Cost:

Free (Free), Premium ($14.99/year)


Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Sports
Downloads Over a million downloads
Features Find the best fishing spots near you with detailed maps, 7-day fishing forecasts, and a robust logbook to track your catches, all while connecting with other anglers.
Who It’s For Anyone looking for an app for finding fishing spots.
Fishing Spots - Fangstellen entdecken, Angelwettervorhersage, Fangbuch führen
  • Tags:
  • Accurate Fishing Forecast
  • Community of Anglers
  • Detailed Fishing Logbook

"Fishing Spots" is an app for finding fishing spots that's quickly gaining popularity among anglers. While the app's core functionality for discovering local hotspots and connecting with other fishermen is well-received, users are eager for more customization options. For instance, they'd love to see a wider selection of gear brands and tackle options to accurately reflect their setups, and a more comprehensive list of fish species, like the elusive wiper. Despite these requests, the app's thoughtful design, like automatically capturing ambient temperature and atmospheric data when posting catches, has impressed users and earned it high praise.

Pros & Cons

  • Find local fishing spots
  • Connect with anglers globally
  • Includes atmospheric info for catches
  • Easy to use and well-designed
  • Limited gear selection options
  • Some brands not available for selection
  • Menus can be confusing at times

Why we chose it?

I absolutely love Fishing Spots! It's got detailed maps showing where fish are being caught, a super helpful 7-day fishing forecast to plan my trips, and a great logbook to keep track of all my catches. Plus, I can connect with other anglers in the area and share tips! It's the best app out there for finding the perfect spot and making the most of your fishing adventures.

✨ Read more: app for fly fishing

6. Fishbox

Fishbox Icon

Predicts fish activity based on weather, Provides detailed fishing spot maps

Cost:

Free (Free), Fishbox Pro ($4.99/month)


Download:

Android

Application information

Category Sports
Downloads Over 655,000 downloads
Features Fishbox is an app for finding fishing spots that uses weather, tides, sun/moon position, moon phase, and other factors to predict where and when fish are biting.
Who It’s For Anglers of all skill levels
Fishbox - Accurate fishing forecast, Bite time predictions, Offline maps and GPS
  • Tags:
  • Accurate Fishing Forecast
  • Bite time predictions
  • Personalized fishing tips

Fishbox is an app marketed as a solution for finding the best fishing spots, but it falls short in delivering on its promise. While it does boast a map feature, the vast majority of spots lack any useful information, making it difficult to plan a successful fishing trip. The app's saving grace lies in its "Top Spots" section, which actually provides insights into fish species and suitable bait choices. However, the lack of user contribution options and the limited geographical information compared to even a basic Google search leaves much to be desired.

Pros & Cons

  • Provides fishing spot map
  • Offers top spots section
  • Suggests fish types and baits
  • Includes fishing knot information
  • Limited spot information
  • No user contribution options
  • Subscription charges unclear

Why we chose it?

Fishbox is my go-to app for finding fishing spots because it combines accurate fishing forecasts with detailed maps and helpful bite time predictions. I love that it considers factors like weather, tides, and even moon phases to give me the best chance of success, and the app's user-friendly interface makes it easy to find the information I need quickly. Plus, it's free! What's not to love?

7. BassForecast

BassForecast Icon

Predicts prime bass feeding times, Analyzes weather, water, and moon

Cost:

Free (Free), Premium ($4.99/month)


Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Sports
Downloads Over 363,000 downloads
Features BassForecast uses science to predict prime bass feeding times, analyzing weather, water data, and moon phases with an exclusive BassForecast Rating (BFR) system, providing a personalized fishing forecast.
Who It’s For Anglers looking for an app for finding fishing spots and maximizing their chances of catching bass.
BassForecast - Accurate bite predictions, Personalized fishing forecasts
  • Tags:
  • Science-based predictions
  • Personalized bass fishing forecast
  • Exclusive BassForecast Rating (BFR) system

BassForecast is a mobile app designed to help anglers find the best fishing spots, but some users have expressed concerns about its accuracy and functionality. While the app offers a promising concept, it falls short in its execution. The daily ratings often differ from the calendar view, making it difficult to trust the forecast. Furthermore, some anglers have reported that the suggested lures and presentations don't always produce results, leaving them questioning the app's effectiveness. The app's focus on boat fishing over bank angling also raises concerns about its relevance for all types of anglers. Ultimately, while BassForecast provides a framework for planning fishing trips, it needs further development and refinement to fulfill its potential as a truly reliable tool for finding the best fishing spots.

Pros & Cons

  • Provides lure and spot suggestions
  • Offers daily fishing ratings
  • Includes solunar tables
  • Has a catch log feature
  • Inaccurate weather forecasting
  • Lure recommendations ineffective
  • No social aspect or real-time data
  • Lacks customization options

Why we chose it?

BassForecast is a fantastic choice for finding fishing spots! It goes beyond just showing you locations, using science to predict the best times to fish based on weather, water conditions, and moon phases. I love that it gives me a clear "BassForecast Rating" (BFR) to help me choose the most productive spots and times, saving me a ton of time and frustration. You'll be surprised how much more successful your fishing trips become with this app!

8. Fishidy

Fishidy Icon

Find best fishing spots, Log catches and spots, Research waterway info

Cost:

Free (Free), Fishidy Pro ($9.99/month)


Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Sports
Downloads Over 329,000
Features Fishidy is an app for finding fishing spots with comprehensive and reliable fishing maps, fishing tips, and techniques, as well as the ability to log catches and share information with other users.
Who It’s For Anglers of all skill levels looking to find the best fishing spots and improve their catch rates.
Fishidy - Detailed fishing maps, Tailored fishing tips, Private catch logging
  • Tags:
  • Detailed Fishing Maps
  • Fishing Hot Spots Data
  • Tailored Fishing Tips

Fishidy is an app for finding fishing spots, boasting a wealth of information from Fishing Hot Spots®, a trusted name in the industry for over 40 years. While the app offers a treasure trove of catches, photos, and hot spots, user reviews highlight some frustrating usability issues. Users have reported difficulties with navigating the app on their phones, particularly finding specific waterway maps, and have encountered glitches with posting catches, leading to duplicate entries and incorrect dates. The app's layout also comes under fire, with crucial buttons being tiny and difficult to find while less relevant features are prominently displayed. These design flaws make it harder for users to fully exploit the app's potential, leaving some feeling frustrated and yearning for a smoother experience.

Pros & Cons

  • See everyone's pics
  • Identifies hot spots
  • Helps find fishing spots
  • Provides fishing location data
  • Difficult to use app
  • Glitchy posting catches
  • Premium features not working

Why we chose it?

I love Fishidy! It's packed with features that make finding the best fishing spots a breeze. I especially appreciate the detailed fishing maps and the ability to log my catches, helping me track my success and refine my strategies. Plus, the community aspect lets me connect with other anglers and share tips, making it a truly engaging experience.

9. Pro Angler Fishing App

Pro Angler Fishing App Icon

Weekly fishing reports from experts, Detailed species guides and techniques

Cost:

Free (Free), Pro ($4.99/month)


Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Sports
Downloads Over 167,000 downloads
Features The app provides location-specific fishing reports, advice from experienced captains, tide charts, weather data, species guides, fishing techniques, and regulations for various locations.
Who It’s For Anglers of all levels, from novice to professional, seeking an app for finding fishing spots and enhancing their fishing experience.
Pro Angler Fishing App - 60K+ Fishing Hot Spots, Detailed Species Guide, Weekly Regional Updates
  • Tags:
  • Expert Fishing Advice
  • Personalized Fishing Spots
  • Real-Time Fishing Conditions

The Pro Angler Fishing App is a treasure trove of information for anglers looking to find the best fishing spots. It boasts a comprehensive database of over 60,000 fishing hotspots across the country, making it a valuable tool for planning your next fishing trip. While users praise the app for its wealth of information and user-friendly organization, some have expressed a desire for more granular location selection. Specifically, they suggest incorporating a system that allows users to choose the body of water first, then the state, city, and port, ensuring a more personalized and accurate experience. Although the app currently focuses on Florida, many users, like those who fish in the Great Lakes region, hope for future expansion to encompass a wider range of fishing destinations.

Pros & Cons

  • Provides fishing spot information
  • Well-organized and presented data
  • Offers weekly updates from pros
  • Includes tide and weather details
  • Limited location options available
  • Account setup can be confusing
  • Location selection logic needs improvement

Why we chose it?

I love Pro Angler Fishing App! It's packed with features that make finding the perfect fishing spot a breeze. The weekly "What's Biting" updates from expert anglers are super helpful, and the detailed species guide, fishing techniques, and regulations keep me fishing legally and effectively. Plus, having access to tide charts, weather data, and reports from fellow anglers means I always know the best time and place to cast my line.

10. onWater Fish

onWater Fish Icon

Extensive fishing spots database, Real-time fishing data, Fish species map layer

Cost:

Free (Free), onWater Plus ($9.99/month)


Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Maps & Navigation
Downloads Over 52,000
Features onWater Fish provides real-time fishing data, including access points, boat ramps, species maps, weather forecasts, property boundaries, and USGS streamflows, for a self-reliant fishing experience.
Who It’s For Anglers of all levels looking for an app to help them find the best fishing spots.
onWater Fish - Extensive fishing spot database, Fish species map layer
  • Tags:
  • Real-time fishing data
  • Extensive fishing spots database
  • Fish species map layer

Forget about scouring Google Maps for vague water bodies. 'onWater Fish' is the ultimate app for finding fishing spots, offering a wealth of detail and functionality that's made a world of difference for seasoned anglers and newcomers alike. This app lets you pinpoint access points, explore detailed topography, and even learn about the specific fish species you're likely to encounter. With its easy-to-use interface and robust features, 'onWater Fish' empowers you to plan your fishing trips with confidence and discover hidden gems on the water.

Pros & Cons

  • Quickly locates access points
  • Detailed maps for fishing spots
  • Allows setting waypoints and favorites
  • Keeps fishing spots private
  • May not be suitable for all types of fishing
  • Requires internet connection for full functionality
  • Limited information on specific species

Why we chose it?

onWater Fish is a game-changer for anglers! It's packed with features that help you find the best fishing spots, like a comprehensive database of public access points, detailed maps, and even fish species distribution layers. I love the ease of use and how it helps me plan my trips by providing weather forecasts and streamflow data, so I can make informed decisions. onWater Fish is my go-to app for finding the perfect fishing spot, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to improve their angling success!

11. Smart Fishing Spots

Smart Fishing Spots Icon

Predicts fish location with AI, Detailed saltwater maps & layers

Cost:

Free (Free), Premium ($19.99/year)


Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Sports
Downloads Over 12,000 downloads
Features This app provides detailed maps, tide information, weather forecasts, and AI-powered predictions to locate the best fishing spots for inshore saltwater species like redfish, speckled trout, snook, and flounder.
Who It’s For Saltwater anglers looking for an app to find the best fishing spots.
Smart Fishing Spots - AI-powered fish predictions, 4K satellite and 3D underwater topography
  • Tags:
  • AI-powered fishing
  • 4K satellite imagery
  • 3D underwater topography

"Smart Fishing Spots" is a game-changer for anglers looking to find the perfect fishing spot. This mobile app boasts a wealth of information, seamlessly combining maps with real-time data on tides, weather, and fish activity. Users rave about its fast download speeds, accurate location tracking, and intuitive interface. The app's "Smart Spots" feature, based on proprietary technology, analyzes conditions and predicts prime fishing locations, saving time and increasing the chances of a successful catch. With its comprehensive data and user-friendly design, "Smart Fishing Spots" is an essential tool for any angler looking to maximize their time on the water.

Pros & Cons

  • Fast download speeds
  • Great location accuracy
  • Helpful for planning trips
  • Integrates all Salt Strong tools
  • Requires Salt Strong membership
  • May not be suitable for freshwater
  • Limited features for free users

Why we chose it?

Smart Fishing Spots is the ultimate app for finding the best saltwater fishing spots! I love how it combines AI and human expertise to predict exactly where the fish will be, plus it's got all the extra features you need like tides, weather, and even 3D underwater topography. It's like having a seasoned fishing guide right in your pocket, so you can focus on catching instead of searching!