Most Popular Game Fish Species in North America

Fishing—whether for leisure, sport, or a combination of both—has become one of the most popular American pastimes. There’s actually a very thin line dividing both types of fishing as most enthusiasts do not discriminate between them.
Most people who go fishing do so not just to catch fish. The activity also provides opportunities for bonding with loved ones and friends. It is also a great way to enjoy nature and the great outdoors. The fun, thrill of the hunt, and adrenaline rush they get from fishing more than compensate for the sunburn or any other inconveniences. For most people, it is a great way to relax.
The most important element in fishing is, of course, the catch. Numerous freshwater and saltwater fish species exist in various fishing locations, varying in size, shape, and behavior. In North America, some of the most popular species are the trout, bass, pike and muskellunge, panfish, catfish, and salmon.
Meanwhile, pike and muskellunge are related species that have long slender bodies and sharp teeth. Pike can be as heavy as 44 pounds, while a muskellunge can tip the scales at about 55 pounds. Other species are the panfish which includes bluegills, crappies, and perch--species which weigh between 2 to 3 pounds.
The trout includes various other subspecies like brown, rainbow, brook, cutthroat, and lake trout and can weigh more than 50 pounds. On the other hand, bass could either be largemouth or smallmouth, and rivals the trout in popularity. A smallmouth bass could weigh up to 9 pounds, while its largemouth counterpart could weigh more than 20 pounds. If you want to catch these popular species, the fishing village of Islamorada off in the Florida Keys is the place to be. Islamorada fishing charters can bring you to waters where they thrive.