10 Best Fishing Apps for Finding Spots and Tracking Catches

Why Use a Fishing App?

Modern fishing apps put a wealth of information in your pocket — detailed lake maps, real-time weather and barometric pressure, solunar tables, species identification, and catch logging. While nothing replaces time on the water, these tools help you make better decisions about when and where to fish. Many are free or offer excellent free tiers.

Fishbrain — Social Network Meets Fishing Log

Fishbrain is the largest social fishing app with over 13 million users sharing catches, spots, and bait recommendations. The free version shows community catches near you and provides basic catch logging. The Pro version ($10/month) unlocks detailed depth maps, BiteTime predictions, and advanced filters. Best for: discovering new spots and seeing what others are catching in your area.

Navionics/Garmin ActiveCaptain — Best Lake Maps

Navionics (now part of Garmin ActiveCaptain) provides the most detailed lake and coastal charts available on mobile. Contour maps, depth shading, and sonar overlays help you understand structure before you ever leave the dock. The app costs $15/year and is essential for anyone who fishes from a boat or kayak. Community edits keep maps current.

Weather and Solunar Apps

Weather plays an enormous role in fishing success. Apps like Windy (free, excellent wind and weather visualization), Weather Underground (hyperlocal forecasts), and Solunar Best Fishing Times help you plan trips around optimal conditions. Barometric pressure changes, wind direction, and moon phases all affect fish behavior — these apps put the data at your fingertips.

State Wildlife Agency Apps

Many state wildlife agencies now offer free mobile apps with regulations, stocking schedules, public access maps, and species information. Examples include TPWD Outdoor Annual (Texas), FishAnywhere (multi-state), and GoFishAL (Alabama). These are the most authoritative sources for regulations and are always free. Check your state agency's website for their official app.