Kentucky - Lake Cumberland
Some of the country's best fishing for freshwater striped bass happens in massive Lake Cumberland. The stripers here average 10 to 12 pounds, 20-pounders are common, and plenty of 30- and even 40-pounders are landed every season. They go 10 to 20 feet deep in June, in the main lake anywhere from the mouth of Fishing Creek to the dam. Try rocky shorelines for smallmouths that can hit 5 pounds. Sasser's Guide Service, 606-387-8949; sasserguideservice.com

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Guide's Tips
Species: Stripers
Guide: Bryan Bihl; wegonefishing.com; 270-459-1474
Rig Specifics: A 7- to 8-foot, Ugly Stick Striper Rod with green line and a shad hooked through the nose.
Quick Tip: The best time is when you have a front coming in. Get the bait down between 50 and 60 feet.
Where to Fish: The rocky banks in the northern end of the lake are where to find them.

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Photos From Lake Cumberland