Females live longer than males and are more likely to reach "trophy" size. Get on the water before sunrise and get to your favorite fishing spot during safelight. Florida's fabled "bucketmouth" will attack just about anything- minnows, frogs, even baby ducks. Use the Places to Fish & Boat Map (map provided by Take Me Fishing™) to Get your fishing license today using this tool (provided by Take Me Fishing™).Click on a state to find out everything you need to know about fishing licenses (or boat registrations). Nothing could be farther from the truth. Each will fulfill your dreams of catching exotic species while bass fishing in Florida. Looking out over the flooded farmland in Fellsmere in southeast Florida that anglers call Stick Marsh, I wondered how we would ever find our way through the hundreds of submerged tree stumps. Every destination will provide a completely unique experience for bass fishing. The Florida Keys. Bass Fishing in Florida can be accessed from every corner of the state. If you’re looking for a five-star hotel, look elsewhere. Miami is one of the BEST destinations to visit in Florida. In the winter the cold water makes the bass very dormant and lethargic, and they like to hover at the deep water levels where the water is the warmest. Finally, we come to the most incredible destination for exotic fishing: Miami, FL. 4. Crispino, who makes his living on the water, is no exception. Just south of Orlando is another fantastic lake. Winning Methods: Topwater and weedless baits are key. Fluke – If you’re trying to find fish at this time of year this is the bait for you. Lake George continues to live up to its reputation as a “big fish” lake, with catch rates … Bass can handle warm water, but they are more likely to feed when the water is cooler. When is the best time to go bass fishing in Florida during the Winter? Each spawn will vary based off the temperatures and water conditions. The best time of year to come fish for largemouth bass is during their spawn. "But trust me, it will be worth it. Our experts are knowledgeable, patient, passionate and committed to showing you the best possible experience. In the Northwest region April-November is the prime time for big flatheads and blue catfish. Surface lures “It could potentially be a really good topwater bite in the wintertime depending on if you catch the water warming in between fronts,” Schultz says. By far, the most common is the Florida largemouth bass. Don’t miss out on your adventure! Black bass, Micropterus salmoides floridanus, were once found only on the Florida peninsula but have since been introduced in Texas and California. Schultz lists the following lures as his favorites for catching Florida bass from top to bottom in the wintertime. The warmer climates bring about targeting exotic species along freshwater species that originated in saltwater. Bass often thrive in the urban waters of places like the Willamette Valley where warmer temperatures limit trout fishing in the summer months. Typically after a prolonged period of sub 40 degree weather the bass will go deep. Lake Toho is located in Kissimmee, FL. Spring and fall are the best seasons. Florida has a multitude of bass species you can catch. 1. If you are fishing during our warm months here in Florida, the early morning hours is when the temperature is the lowest and the bass bite the best. Contact us with any questions you have about bass fishing in Florida. Lake George. This is what the Almanac’s Best Fishing Days are based on. If you are planning a trip, spring is the best time to hunt a trophy bass. View our privacy policy. Reading Time: 6 minutes When it comes to fishing in Florida, there’s a lot to say. Great fishing conditions year round promote exceptional action on all our major lakes and destinations. Your Adventure Starts Today while Visiting Florida. Females typically are the larger fish. Florida, like the rest of the United States, experiences cold fronts during the winter months. "You can credit that to our year-round growing season," says Wes Porak, a biologist with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. If the fishing conditions are warm, the best time to come bass fishing is in the early morning. However, most of us go fishing when we can get the time off, not because it is the best time! Those are the main targeted species here in Florida. February through April are peak months in Central Florida. When you explore Naples, FL, you have the opportunity to fish two incredible bass fisheries. “You can … Airport Lakes will give you an urban feel while setting the hook into a bass with a plane overhead. 15 bodies of freshwater made the 2012 list of Top Spots for Black Bass: Lake George, West Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho), Lake Kissimmee, Rodman Reservoir, Lake Tarpon, Evers Reservoir, Lake Istokpoga, Winter Haven South Chain of Lakes, Lake Talquin, Suwannee River, Lake Okeechobee, Everglades Water Conservation Areas 2 and 3, Lake Monroe, Tenoroc Fish Management Area Lakes and Mosaic Fish Management Area. No one disputes the fact that the Florida "bucketmouth" grow bigger and fatter than any other species of bass. Flukes flat out catch … The season starts earlier in South Florida. The content for this web site has been provided both by professional travel writers and by individual consumers. The largemouth bass are starting to move in and the fishing is going to be amazing the next couple of months. Get Your Fishing License Online. Bass refer to largemouth bass, specks to black crappie, stripers to striped bass, sunshines to sunshine bass, peacocks to peacock bass and catfish to channel catfish (unless otherwise specified). I have been fishing Florida bass waters for over 50 years and the Harris Chain for nearly 40. There is nothing like early morning topwater bites whether fishing for largemouth or peacock bass. That’s one of the primary natural forages for Florida largemouth bass. The furthest north they have migrated to would be the Lake Osborne Chain of Lakes in Boynton Beach, FL. Listed above in no particular order, each destination has its own appeal to anglers, varied topography, impressive nature and, of course, productive bass fishing. Orlando, FL is closely located to several exceptional largemouth bass fisheries. Ensure you have a successful day on the water! The Miami International Airport Lakes or the Falls Canal System are exceptional destinations to catch that hard-fighting peacock bass you were hoping for. Bass spawning season presents great opportunities to catch trophy-sized bass with a particular emphasis on sight fishing. Found statewide, largemouth bass have excellent growth rates, particularly in the productive waters of central Florida. Never worry about baiting, netting or removing a hook from a fish again, our local experts handle all of that. If you can plan your trip around moon phases that will give you the best chance at catching very large trophy-sized bass. Florida is known to have some of the BEST bass fishing in the nation. This fishery is truly unique with the abundance of species you can catch with our local experts. Each location will give you a unique perspective on Florida Bass Fishing. The Harris Chain is one of the best places in Florida to catch a bass over 10 pounds. The only way and best way to experience bass fishing in Florida is on a fishing charter. Lake Okeechobee Bass Fishing is a major highlight for those that come to explore and visit Florida. If the cold fronts drop the water temperatures significantly, then the afternoon bite will be the strongest. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram. Truly, bass lakes on every corner. NIGHT. All you have to do is book you’re fishing adventure, bring your family along, hop on board and enjoy a fishing adventure of a lifetime. If you are looking for a more urban feel, the Butler Chain of Lakes is your destination. Enjoy a deep clear water chain of lakes surrounded by multimillion-dollar homes. If you enjoyed this post about Florida Fishing, you might also enjoy our Fishing Blogs. Don’t forget to bring along everyone on your fishing charter to make a truly remarkable experience. Peacock bass can only be caught in South Florida. Learn more in our Cookie Notice and our Privacy Policy. Depending on whom you ask, Florida largemouth bass could be a distinct species, different from its northern cousin, or merely a subspecies. Florida Peacock Bass are highly exotic species that love the sunshine here in Florida. Welcome to Florida, the bass fishing capital of the world and the only place you can catch multiple species of bass in one fishing charter. Top Florida Bass Fishing Lakes and Destinations. As summer approaches, the fishing improves in North Florida. Anglers know the odds of catching trophy fish - 10 pounds or larger - are as good as it gets in Florida. You can also experience peacock bass fishing in Markham Park which is right on the board of the Everglades in West Fort Lauderdale. Peacock bass are incredibly fun to catch as they are aggressive, hard-pulling, and very colorful. The males or the protectors typically don’t get as large but grow a knot on top of their head. If you want to experience Old Florida charm (and a great catch), these fish camps in Florida offer the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation. Winter bass fishing in Florida as many know, is the place to be. This is typically when the water is coolest and bass are less affected by direct sunlight. Spring has to be the most anticipated season of all for catching Florida Largemouth Bass. Lake George. If the fishing conditions are warm, the best time to come bass fishing is in the early morning. If you love to throw artificial lures, this is your destination. Especially for those of us living with cold winters where the snow doesn’t leave the ground until March and it can still snow well into April. The color is a matter of choice, but a general rule is the darker the better. In order to determine which destination would be best, you have to choose the species. In addition, many travelers to South Florida also enjoy catching the exotic peacock bass. Lake Okeechobee. Many lakes are strictly catch and release, which is another reason why the fishing is so good. Most of our main lakes are within driving range of all the major destinations. https://www.planetware.com/florida/best-lakes-in-florida-us-fl-445.htm Central Florida A hub for visit Florida, Orlando, and Kissimmee are the attraction. The early morning hours can prove to be quite successful for bass fishing. The fact that some of the biggest bass tours operating in the United States make regular stops here should tell you something ... 2. You can experience Lake Okeechobee from Okeechobee City, FL or Clewiston, FL, and finally Belle Glade, FL. Florida is known world wide as “The Bass Fishing Capitol of the World” and with the BassMaster Classic of 2006, record setting weights, and ten pound plus bass being caught, Florida will remain at the top of the list for many years to come. Fishing is said to be best during the time between a new Moon and a full Moon. For a full list of FWC freshwater fish forecasts for 2012, visit myfwc.com/fishing/freshwater/sites-forecast. As the weather begins to change, it enhances the outdoors and all the activities you can embark on. Lake Okeechobee: “It is an incredible lake with lots and lots of vegetation,” Grigsby says. You will never get bored while uncovering what Florida has to offer. When you adventure out on the Butler Chain, you are not only going to catch numbers of big bass but you also have the opportunity to fish behind Shaq’s and many other celebrities houses. The Florida largemouth bass has a reputation as a "tackle buster." The best live bait is a golden shiner, fished under a float or free-lined. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. Baitfish activity often increases around sunrise while light ... LATE AFTERNOON. Florida has an estimated 2 million resident anglers, and another million visitors fish state waters every year. However, if you’re after an exotic adventure, Peacock Bass fishing is something that shouldn’t be missed. BEST TIME TO FISH FOR BASS: TIME OF DAY. If you are planning a trip, spring is the best time to hunt a trophy bass. Take a break from the parks and tourist attractions and hop on board for a fishing adventure of a lifetime while Lake Toho Bass Fishing. As of current, the Everglades is one of the most productive fisheries for big numbers of largemouth bass. 3. The species are native to South America but were introduced to Florida’s waters in the ’80s. Peacock bass spawn during the months of April through September, also depending on water temperatures. Florida’s largemouth bass put the Sunshine State on the international sportfishing map. Historically known for huge bass, Florida remains an outstanding destination to catch a trophy. They love to reside in very warm waters which are also the best time to come catch one. The season starts earlier in South Florida. Heading over to the east coast, you can experience even more freshwater Everglades bass fishing out of Fort Lauderdale, FL. Or “When is the best time to come bass fishing in Florida? How to find the best areas There is nothing like early morning topwater bites whether fishing for largemouth or peacock bass. We are always here to help and you can book your reservation 24/7! While visiting Naples, you can also experience the Florida Everglades. By Terry Tomalin If you don’t have the equipment, our local experts come fully equipped for your fishing charter. Largemouth bass can be caught in every freshwater lake, pond, or river you can find. But the debate is academic. If you are visiting Central Florida, Orlando Florida Bass Fishing is a great option to get in the outdoors. When you step aboard our fishing vessels, rest assure you are in great hands. Florida, like the rest of the United States, experiences cold fronts during the winter months. With more than 700 world records to its credit - more than any other state or country - Florida can honestly claim the title of "Fishing Capital of the World." There is nothing like early morning topwater bites whether fishing for largemouth or peacock bass. When you are looking to go out on a Florida bass fishing charter, the main way to choose your fishery is based off your travel location. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. The largemouth bass is the best known and most popular freshwater game fish in Florida. Freshwater Fishing vs. Saltwater Fishing: Explained, How Timing And Weather Can Impact Your Fishing Experience, Why Deep-Sea Fishing Should Be In Your 2021 Fishing Trip List, 5 Reasons to Spend the Christmas Holidays in Florida. As we head further south, you can’t miss the largest freshwater lake in the state of Florida, Lake Okeechobee. Lake Tohopekaliga or Lake Toho for short is one of the BEST bass fisheries in the state of Florida. Put those together and you have big bass.". If the fishing conditions are warm, the best time to come bass fishing is in the early morning. Without question, the best time of day to fish for bass is at night. The largemouth bass is the best known and most popular game fish in North America and is Florida's state freshwater fish and Florida is an outstanding destination to catch a trophy. Several of our local experts will get you on the largemouth bass of your dreams. "It is not uncommon to catch 50 fish in a day here. Most conservation-minded anglers release large fish because of their future spawning potential. Lake Okeechobee is a world-renown lake for its incredible bass fishing all year long. The article provides on the Florida bass spawn, where the bass bed, gear for spawn fishing, and bass … A spawn is an event of mating that occurs multiple times of year for many bass species. We look forward to seeing you on the water next time!! While professional bass anglers use artificial lures on the tournament trail, the bait of choice for most anglers is either the golden shiner or the wild shiner, a thick-bodied baitfish found in most Florida lakes. Staying in a fish camp is closer to, well, camping. Our goal is to share along exceptional outdoor experiences with local experts that have spent hours and days on the water. When it comes to artificial lures, the plastic worm is probably the most widely used bait. Visit These Fish Camps In Florida For The Perfect Laid-Back Getaway. These conditions begin to stabilize during the month of January into February. Spend all day with birds flying overhead, alligators sunbathing and setting the hook into some quality bass. If you’ve ever imagined a fishing paradise, chances are you’re probably thinking of … Crank baits and spinner baits are other popular choices, but when it comes to heart-pounding action, nothing beats the sight of a big bass banging a topwater plug. If you are looking for a trophy-sized bass all year long, Lake Toho is your destination. The largest (certified) largemouth bass in Florida was caught in 1986 in Polk County (in Central Florida) and weighed 17 pounds, 4 ounces. Many ask us on a daily basis: “When is the best time to go fishing in Florida?” The best time to go bass fishing is dependent on fishing conditions. If you are looking for the most unique fishing experience of them all, explore South Florida and Southwest Florida. To catch a big wheel you much better have the best lure possible. Don’t worry; our local experts are highly professional and family friendly. But while saltwater fishing has played an important role in the state's economy, it is Florida's largemouth bass and its varieties like the butterfly peacock bass that put the Sunshine State on the international sportfishing map. Stop for lunch or power through and catch big numbers on the back flats and long canal systems of this beautiful and wild destination. 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