Jan 20, 2022

Located in the eastern part of the state and about 100 miles from Louisville, the city of Richmond, KY is close to numerous lakes and artificial reservoirs where local anglers can spend some quality time with friends and catch some great specimens of the local species. If you are looking for the best fishing spots in the area, these are some nearby destinations you should definitely check out. Pack your gear, grab some snacks, and hit the road!

 

1. Cave Run Lake

Covering a little over 8,000 acres of territory, Cave Run Lake is an artificial reservoir built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers between 1965 and 1973. Home to healthy populations of crappie, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, muskellunge, and white bass, this lake offers plenty of opportunities for local anglers and visitors from all over the state. Fed primarily by the Licking River, Cave Run Lake is also a popular spot for water activities including swimming, boating, canoeing, and kayaking.

Some of the best fishing areas along the shores of Cave Run Lake are located within the premises of Daniel Boone National Forest. Getting here from downtown Richmond takes about an hour and a half by car, driving 75 miles northeast along route I-64. Although Cave Run Lake is a popular day trip destination, visitors can also stay overnight at the fully equipped campsites and RV parking spots of the national forest.

2. Lake Cumberland

Located about 85 miles southwest of downtown Richmond, Lake Cumberland is also an excellent spot for anglers of all experience levels. Covering an area of over 65,000 acres, this artificial reservoir was constructed primarily for flood control and hydroelectric power production. Since it opened its doors to the public for recreational purposes, it has become a major tourist attraction in the region, welcoming visitors from all over Kentucky and Tennessee.

Getting from Richmond to the designated fishing areas along the shores of Lake Cumberland takes about an hour and 40 minutes by car, driving along route I-75. Some of the fish species you can find in the lake include striped bass, rainbow trout, sauger, brown trout, walleye, and lake trout. Besides fishing, Lake Cumberland and the surrounding areas also provide excellent opportunities for boating, picnicking, hiking, birdwatching, wildlife photography, and camping.

3. Laurel River Lake

Covering a surface area of 5,600 acres, Laurel River Lake is another artificial reservoir built in the late 1970s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Home to large populations of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, white crappie, black crappie, and rainbow trout, this lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for visitors from all over Kentucky and neighboring states. Driving here from Richmond takes about an hour and 15 minutes, heading south along route I-75.

Are you ready for your next fishing adventure? Before you check out these fantastic spots, stop by Gates Honda! Our team of expert and friendly sales agents will help you find a vehicle that suits your needs, as well as a flexible and convenient financing plan.