If you’re chasing adrenaline-pumping strikes, monster-sized catches, and unforgettable days on the water, then summer is prime time for targeting trophy bass, northern pike, and walleye. Whether you prefer the quiet solitude of northern lakes or the action-packed rivers of the Midwest, we’ve rounded up the best summer fishing trips that offer the chance to land your personal best.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the best summer fishing trips for trophy bass, pike, and walleye—complete with destination tips, peak times, and techniques that work.

Why Summer is Prime Time for Trophy Fishing

Warm water temperatures, long daylight hours, and aggressive feeding behavior all make summer one of the best times to target big game freshwater species. During the post-spawn and mid-summer periods, largemouth bass, northern pike, and walleye become more active, giving anglers a golden opportunity to reel in a trophy.

1. Lake St. Clair, Michigan – Trophy Smallmouth Bass

If you’re a bass angler, Lake St. Clair is a must-visit destination. This lake consistently ranks among the top smallmouth bass fisheries in North America.

• Why It’s Great: Clear waters, abundant forage, and ideal summer temps make this a smallmouth haven.
• Tactics: Drop shot rigs, Ned rigs, and jerkbaits in 10–20 feet of water near rock piles and weed edges.

2. Lake of the Woods, Minnesota/Ontario – Premier Pike and Walleye Destination

Straddling the U.S.–Canada border, Lake of the Woods is renowned for producing trophy northern pike and walleye all summer long. With over 14,000 islands and countless coves, it's a dream destination for serious anglers.

• Trophy Pike: Target shallow, weedy bays in early summer, then move to deeper weed edges and drop-offs as temperatures rise.
• Monster Walleye: Fish rocky points, mid-lake reefs, and current breaks with jigs and live bait or by trolling.
• Bonus: While pike and walleye steal the spotlight, the lake also holds healthy populations of smallmouth bass and muskie.
• Top Lures: Large spoons, spinnerbaits, and swimbaits for pike; jigs with minnows, leeches, or nightcrawlers for walleye.

3. St. Lawrence River, New York – Giant Smallmouth & Walleye

The St. Lawrence River offers powerful current, deep channels, and a solid population of big bass and walleye.

• Why It’s Hot: Clear water and structure-rich habitat support consistent trophy-class fish.
• Summer Strategy: Drifting jigs and trolling crankbaits in current seams and drop-offs.
• Pro Tip: Focus around the Thousand Islands region for less pressure and better structure.

4. Rainy Lake, Minnesota/Ontario – Walleye & Pike Central

Another border water gem, Rainy Lake is a consistent producer of trophy walleye and northern pike, especially in the summer months.

• Walleye Patterns: Jigs tipped with leeches or minnows around rocky humps and submerged reefs.
• Pike Tactics: Cast large spoons or spinnerbaits around lily pads and submerged weeds.

5. Toledo Bend Reservoir, Texas/Louisiana – Big Largemouth Bass

One of the South’s most legendary bass lakes, Toledo Bend is known for producing trophy largemouth bass, even in the heat of summer.

• Summer Hotspots: Deep ledges, creek channels, and brush piles hold the giants.
• Lure Choices: Big worms, Carolina rigs, deep-diving crankbaits.
• Fishing Tip: Use electronics to locate schools suspended in 15–25 feet of water.

6. Lake Erie (Western Basin), Ohio – Massive Summer Walleye

If numbers and size are what you're after, Lake Erie is widely regarded as one of the best summer walleye fisheries in North America. The Western Basin, near towns like Port Clinton and Sandusky, becomes a walleye hotspot as schools migrate west to east throughout the season.

• Summer Strategy: Trolling is the go-to method. Use planer boards to spread out your lines and cover more water. Stickbaits, worm harnesses, and deep-diving crankbaits work best.
• Depth Zones: Focus on 30–60 feet of water, adjusting based on thermoclines and bait presence.
• Pro Tip: Hire a local charter if you're unfamiliar with navigating offshore waters—guides can put you directly on the fish and handle the gear setup.
• Bonus: The same areas often produce jumbo perch later in the summer, giving you a great two-for-one opportunity.