Covington, Kentucky

Perched on the banks of the Ohio River, directly across from Cincinnati, Covington is an old river city with a modern edge and excellent urban fishing access. Its riverfront offers a front-row seat to where the Licking and Ohio Rivers meet a confluence that stirs up big fish and bold stories. Beyond the bridges and skyline views, anglers can explore quiet tributaries and park lakes for catfish, bass, sauger, and panfish. Covington mixes industrial backdrop with aquatic diversity, making it a favorite for city-bound anglers with big-river dreams. It’s where bourbon country and tackle boxes overlap in the best possible way.

Ohio River (Covington Landing)

This urban stretch of the Ohio is productive for blue catfish, hybrid striped bass, freshwater drum, and sauger—especially near the mouth of the Licking River. Anglers fish near piers, bridge pilings, and seawalls using cut bait, jigs, and minnows. The current can be strong, but deeper eddies hold big fish, especially in spring and fall. Access is excellent, with nearby parking and dramatic riverfront views.

Licking River (Wallace Woods Access)

A quieter, narrower alternative to the Ohio, the Licking River is perfect for fishing smallmouth bass, rock bass, and channel catfish. Try fishing near overhanging trees, riprap, and bridge abutments with light tackle or live bait. Water levels fluctuate, but calm mornings and post-rain flows often bring fish into the shallows. The river’s proximity to downtown makes it an easy getaway with just enough wildness.

Artistic tourism poster for Covington, Kentucky, showcasing historic riverfront views, vibrant urban culture, and iconic architecture near the Ohio River in Northern Kentucky.

Devou Park Lake (Prisoner’s Lake)

Tucked into the hills of Devou Park, this small lake is stocked seasonally with trout and catfish and supports bluegill and bass. It’s a peaceful, family-friendly spot with easy casting room and picnic areas nearby. Use worms, corn, or spinners near the edges and shaded banks. Though small, it offers a nice change of pace from the river’s scale and flow.

Doe Run Lake (Just South of Covington)

Located a short drive away in Kenton County, Doe Run Lake is a scenic, undeveloped reservoir surrounded by forest. It holds largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish, and is great for both bank and kayak anglers. Fish around submerged wood and drop-offs using soft plastics, live bait, or topwater in low light. It’s a favorite for locals looking for a quiet, natural setting close to the city.