4 Places to Fish for Largemouth Bass in Lee County, Florida

February, March, and April are a few of the best months to target largemouth bass in Southwest Florida. During these months our Florida-strain fish will be moving into shallow areas to spawn. Fly anglers can find plenty of places to cast a topwater popping bug from the banks, while spinning rod fans can use soft plastic ribbontail worms rigged Texas style for plenty of action around vegetated shorelines.

Remember to check your local weather forecast, solunar tables, and monitor barometric pressure changes to increase your chances of catching a bass worth bragging about.

Caloosahatchee River Regional Park

The Caloosahatchee River waterway connects Lake Okeechobee and offers anglers plenty of good brackish bass fishing opportunities. If you don’t have a boat, no worries, you can try fishing from the bank at Caloosahatchee River Regional Park. The park is open from 7 AM to 7:30 PM and is located at 19130 North River Road in Alva. Parking fees are $1 per hour or $5 for the day. State fishing licenses are required for both residents and non-residents.

Cape Coral Canal System

Good bass fishing can be found in the extensive Cape Coral canal system. Freshwater launch access can be found at the BMX Boat Ramp at SW 7^th Court, just North of Trafalgar. The BMX Boat Ramp offers access to freshwater canals south of Pine Island Road. There are several lakes located within this system including: Alhambra Lake, Lake Kennedy, Saratoga Lake, Shamrock Lake, Killerney Lake to the Northeast, and Weatherly Lake to the South. There are also two small piers that provide bank access at Kennedy Park, 400 Santa Barbara Boulevard. State fishing licenses are required for both residents and non-residents.

Lakes Regional Park

Lakes Regional Park is located at 7330 Gladiolus Drive in Fort Myers, just west of US 41. This park features 158 acres of freshwater quarry lake that is ideal for catching largemouth bass, bluegill and catfish. The park is managed by Lee County and provides bank, pier, and small boat access (canoes and paddle boat rentals are also available). Parking fees are $1 per hour or $5 for the day. The lake ranges in depth from just a few inches to 20 feet. Fish deeper areas when possible and use live golden shiners or plastic worms for the best chance at hooking a largemouth bass. Don’t forget that a Florida fishing license is required for both residents and non-residents

Drainage Ditches and Community Ponds

Don’t dismiss some of the freshwater drainage ditches alongside the roadways in Lee County, but do be mindful of heavy traffic and always obey private property or trespassing laws. During the summer rainy season, high water flow through several of these drainage ditches will concentrate largemouth bass and black crappie in more confined areas for excellent success. Look for unique areas that are far enough away from traffic to ensure safety and insulation from the traffic noise.

Many local communities will also allow licensed residents to fish in community ponds. If the ponds have been established for several years and you have permission from the community, these ponds are definitely worth trying.

If you want additional suggestions that can help increase your chances of landing a lunker, check out the fundamental bass fishing tips for beginners.