5 Affordable Fishing Trips Recommended by Pro Angler Justin Lucas

From kayaking in Tennessee to boating off the California coastline, where and how you fish can seem as varied as the number of species out there. But these fun-filled fishing excursions all have at least one thing in common: They’re easy on the wallet.

Here’s a roundup of some of the best affordable fishing trips in the U.S., including expert advice from pro angler Justin Lucas, the 2018 Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year and winner of several major fishing tournaments.

Hot Spot 1: Go river fishing in Kennewick, Washington

Justin Lucas recommends casting just outside the current or in swirling eddies to catch bass when river fishing.

The Hook: Kennewick borders the 1,214-mile-long Columbia River—the fourth largest river in North America—and is known to lure both pro and amateur bass fishermen alike, making it one of the best fishing vacations.

Justin Lucas’ Fishing Pro Tip: To catch bass, fish outside the current. Bass prefer staying just outside of the river flow in eddies, swirling water created by rocks or other obstacles.

Hot Spot 2: Fish from a kayak in Nashville, Tennessee

Use smaller rods when kayak fishing, says Justin Lucas, to help you improve the accuracy of your casting.

The Hook: With plenty of rivers and lakes in and around Nashville, Music City is a popular destination for kayak fishing and weekend fishing trips, no matter your budget. Plenty of places also offer kayak rentals, one of the more affordable ways to enjoy fishing away from the shore.

Justin Lucas’ Fishing Pro Tip: Use smaller rods when kayak fishing: 6 to 6 1/2 feet. That can help improve your chances of making accurate casts around tight covers, such as partially submerged logs.

Hot Spot 3: Rent a boat for lake fishing in Branson, Missouri

Fishing for bass at Table Rock Lake in May is highly recommended by pro angler Justin Lucas.

The Hook: Table Rock Lake in Branson has been nationally recognized over the years as one of the top bass fishing lakes in the U.S. Don’t have a boat? No worries! Enjoy a much cheaper alternative by renting one at Branson’s Stake Park Marina for a day on the water—a big win for those seeking more affordable fish trips.

Justin Lucas’ Fishing Pro Tip: May is, hands down, the best time to fish at Table Rock Lake. On a good day, you can catch 50 to 80 bass between one and three pounds.

Hot Spot 4: Hit the high seas in San Diego, California

Justin Lucas says to ask your captain or deckhand for the best advice on catching a particular type of deep-sea fish.

The Hook: For cheap deep-sea fishing, take a trip on a “head boat” or “party boat”—a larger vessel that can accommodate dozens of people. It can make fishing out in the ocean much more affordable, especially compared to chartering a boat with just a few people.

Justin Lucas’ Fishing Pro Tip: Ask the captain or the deckhand the best technique for the fish you’re after that day. They always know best!

Hot Spot 5: Spend the day pier fishing in Charleston, South Carolina

The impressively large Folly Beach pier, says Justin Lucas, is an ideal spot for an affordable fishing trip.

The Hook: Prone to seasickness? Instead of going out on a boat, try fishing off a pier instead. It affords great opportunities to land some big ones and it’s also perfect for anglers who are planning affordable fishing trips: Charleston's 1,045-foot Folly Beach Pier only costs about $5 to fish. Renting fishing rods is fairly inexpensive as well.

Justin Lucas’ Fishing Pro Tip: Use longer, 8-to-10-foot fishing rods with heavier weights that allow you to cast further away from the pier.

Hotels near Charleston, South Carolina: 30

Whether it’s fishing on a pier, in the ocean, in a lake or on a river, these affordable fishing trips, along with Lucas’ pro tips, can offer an enjoyable experience for anglers at any skill level. Your wallet will thank you too.