5 Florida Freshwater Fishing Destinations

While the Sunshine State may be most often cited for its saltwater fishing opportunities, there are plenty of top notch Florida freshwater fishing destinations as well well. From trophy largemouth bass to spunky panfish, you shouldn’t turn your nose up at these five freshwater spots.

Florida Freshwater Fishing Destinations

1. Lake Okeechobee: 730 square miles, located in south central Florida and easily accessible from Florida’s east or west coasts. The Big “O” is shallow, full of vegetation, and provides the ideal habitat for bass. It’s not uncommon for anglers to hook into a 7 to 10 pounder while fishing with either shiners, plastic worms or spinnerbaits. Crappies are also abundant from December through April (during the cooler months). Moore Haven, Clewiston, South Bay, Belle Glade, and Port Mayaca are good all spots to start.
2. Cecil B. Webb Wildlife Management Area: Located 5 miles south of Punta Gorda on Interstate 75, off of exit 158 (Tucker’s Grade). Turn east when you get off the ramp, and then drive about a quarter of a mile to the entrance. Focus your efforts on Webb Lake. It spans 395-acres, and holds record-sized bluegill, largemouth bass, and tilapia.
3. Lake Kissimmee: 35,000 acre natural lake located just south of St. Cloud. Bass over 10 pounds are regularly reported on this lake. Target deep water peppergrass and hydrilla during the warmer months. There are six fish camps, a state park and three boat ramps available for public use.
4. Lake George: This is Florida’s second largest lake, located 18 miles northwest of Deland, 29 miles east of Ocala. Lake George provides some key areas to wade fish for bass using plastic worms fished on the surface or topwater artificials. During spring spawning season, you’ll be most productive using shiners. Striper fishing here can be also be very good along the east side of the lake from October through April when the water is cool. Access to the lake is provided through a variety of fish camps and landings. Note, however, that there is no pier or bank fishing.
5. St. John’s River: This river stretches 260 miles from southwest of Melbourne northward towards Jacksonville. The St. John’s is home to a high population of speckled perch, crappies and catfish. Crappies are best fished from December through March along the hydrilla, water lilies and eel grass. Large catfish are typically caught here during the months of May through June. A few of the most commonly fished areas of the St. John’s are Lakes Jessup, Monroe and Woodruff.

Freshwater fishing is a great way to get kids “hooked” on fishing from the shorelines. My point? Grab some shiners and get fresh every once and awhile. You’ll be surprised by how much fun you’ll have.