Best Fishing Holes in Madison County
Every kid deserves a fishing memory. It’s one of those simple, unplugged, get-your-hands-dirty experiences that sticks with them. And lucky for us, Madison County is loaded with great spots to make it happen. Here’s your go-to guide for the best fishing holes in the area.
Our Favorite Fishing Holes in Madison County
Brahan Spring Park Lagoon | 500 Drake Ave SW, Huntsville | (256) 883-3736
Right in the heart of Huntsville, this is probably the most accessible spot for city families. No shade or seating on-site, so bring your own chairs and sunscreen. Every June, the city hosts a kid-friendly Fishing Rodeo here and the lagoon gets stocked ahead of time. Translation: more of a chance that your kids are going to catch something.
Ditto Landing | 293 Ditto Landing Rd SE, Huntsville | (256) 882-1057
South Huntsville families, this one’s close to home. Bluegill, bream, and catfish come in from the Tennessee River, and you can bank fish from the rocks or head out to the fishing pier on the west side of the marina. A boat or kayak gives you more range, but it’s not required. Live nightcrawlers are available to purchase at the Marina, and the staff there can point you to their favorite spots too.
Harvest Square Nature Preserve | Allyson Sadie Blvd, Harvest | (256) 534-5263
This one is a hidden gem, especially for younger or first-time fishers. Tucked behind the Publix on Highway 53, there’s a covered pavilion, plenty of parking, and two ponds (Turner Pond and Terry Pond) connected by walking paths. Sometimes you can catch 4-5 little fish on cane poles at Terry Pond without much effort at all. Bonus: wild blackberries in the summer and trails to explore when the fish stop biting.
Hays Nature Preserve | 7153 Hwy 431 S, Owens Cross Roads | (256) 427-5048
Out in the Hampton Cove area, the Flint River runs right through Hays Nature Preserve, meeting up with Big Cove Creek inside the park. The walking trails run alongside the river for several hundred yards with a dozen or more bank fishing spots along the way. Walk the trails and find your own favorite spot. It’s worth the exploration.
Madison County Lake | 2501 County Lake Road, Gurley | (256) 776-4905
This 105-acre lake is the real deal. It’s stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish, crappie, and even winter rainbow trout. You can fish from the bank or pier, launch a boat or kayak from the ramp, or rent one on-site. Smaller fish tend to hang around the perimeter; the big ones prefer the man-made habitats out in the middle. The on-site bait shop has everything you need: bait, tackle, snacks, and clean restrooms.
Madison County Nature Trail (Green Mountain) | 5000 Nature Trail Rd, Huntsville | (256) 883-9501
Hike, picnic, and fish all in one stop. Kids under 16 and seniors over 60 can fish Sky Lake Monday through Friday for just $1.50. While you’re there, keep an eye out for the state’s largest and oldest Champion Winged Elm Tree along the trail.
Sharon Johnston Park | 783 Coleman Rd, New Market | (256) 379-2868
About 20 minutes from downtown Huntsville, Sharon Johnston offers fishing, camping, and swimming all in one place. Fishing permits are $1.50, available at the Camp Host when you arrive. They don’t sell bait, so bring your own. Covered pavilions and clean restrooms are scattered around the lake.
Don’t Forget Bait
The only on-site bait shops are at Madison County Lake and Ditto Landing. For everywhere else, plan ahead. Walmart, Academy Sports, Cabela’s, and Buster’s Bait & Tackle all carry what you need. Worms, crickets, and minnows are your best bets around here.
Do You Need a Fishing License?
Cost: $17
Here’s the short version: Madison County residents can bank fish in their home county using live bait and hook and line without a license, as long as you have proof of residency with you (a driver’s license works). Kids under 16 don’t need a freshwater fishing license. The supervising adult may still need one depending on the situation. You can buy your license online at outdooralabama.com in about 8 minutes and print it right away.
