The Sunshine State of Florida is home to some of the best bass fishing lakes in the United States and for good reason.
With a wide variety of lakes throughout the state, from the largest freshwater lake in the south, Lake Okeechobee, to smaller, more secluded natural lakes, Florida has something to offer every angler.
In this article, best bass fishing in Florida we’ll explore 21 of the best bass fishing lakes in Florida, covering everything from lake size and depth to the best lures and techniques for catching trophy bass.
25 Best Bass Fishing Lakes in Florida
1. Lake Okeechobee
Lake Okeechobee is located in central Florida and is the largest lake in the state and one of the best places to catch big bass.
With a surface area of over 730 square miles, the lake is known for its shallow water and abundant aquatic vegetation, making it a great location for spinnerbaits and lipless crankbaits.
The lake is also home to Florida’s trophy catch program, which promotes catch-and-release fishing for trophy largemouth bass.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| King’s Bar | 26.9582° N, 80.9051° W | A shallow bar extending into the lake provides plenty of cover and structure for bass to hide in. |
| Ritta Island | 26.9974° N, 80.7917° W | An island with plenty of vegetation and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Tin House Cove | 26.9094° N, 80.8894° W | A cove with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to feed in. |
| Dyess’s Ditch | 26.9825° N, 80.7656° W | A shallow bar that extends out into the lake providing plenty of cover and structure for bass to hide in. |
| Harney Pond Canal | 26.8650° N, 81.0036° W | A ditch runs through the lake, providing a natural funnel for bass to feed in. |
2. Lake Kissimmee
Lake Kissimmee is part of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes in central Florida. It is a legendary lake for bass fishing.
With a surface area of over 34,000 acres and an average depth of 10 feet, the lake is home to some of the biggest fish in the state.
Spinner baits, and plastic worms are popular lures for fishing in the lake’s shallow waters and around its numerous lily pads.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Brahma Island | 27.9583° N, 81.3450° W | An island with plenty of cover and structure for bass to hide in. |
| Jack’s Slough | 27.9544° N, 81.3386° W | A shallow, weedy area that is great for topwater fishing. |
| Lemon Point | 27.9650° N, 81.3764° W | A point that extends out into the lake, providing deep water and plenty of structure for bass to feed on. |
| North Cove | 27.9644° N, 81.3325° W | A cove with plenty of vegetation and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Philadelphia Point | 27.9494° N, 81.3706° W | A point with a drop-off that provides plenty of deep water for bass to feed in. |
3. Lake Istopoga
Lake Istokpoga is a freshwater lake located in Highlands County, Florida, and it’s one of the biggest lakes in the state by surface area, stretching over about 27,692 acres. Despite its size, it’s relatively shallow, with an average depth of 4 to 6 feet.
The name “Istokpoga” comes from the Seminole words “is-ti-op-ka-ha,” which means “our people died there”, referring to a battle between warring tribes.
Lake Istokpoga is known for its high-quality fishing, particularly for largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill species.
It also has a reputation as one of Florida’s best lakes for trophy bass fishing.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Big Island | 27.3734° N, 81.2827° W | An island with plenty of cover and structure for bass to hide in. |
| North Point | 27.4091° N, 81.2831° W | A point that extends out into the lake, providing deep water and plenty of structure for bass to feed on. |
| Cow House Cove | 27.3579° N, 81.2637° W | A cove with plenty of vegetation and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Red Beach | 27.4258° N, 81.2779° W | A shallow area with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to feed in. |
| Eagle Bay | 27.3887° N, 81.2770° W | A bay with plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
4. Rodman Reservoir
Rodman Reservoir, also known as Lake Ocklawaha, is a man-made reservoir in north-central Florida near Palatka. It’s part of the Ocklawaha River and was created in 1968 when the Rodman Dam was built as a part of the now-halted Cross Florida Barge Canal project.
The reservoir covers approximately 9,500 acres and is known for the quality of its bass fishing. It has been recognized as one of the best places in Florida to catch trophy bass. Besides largemouth bass, the reservoir is home to other species like crappie, bluegill, and catfish.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kenwood Landing | 29.5299° N, 81.9149° W | A popular boat ramp that provides access to the reservoir. |
| The Oklawaha River | 29.4621° N, 81.8741° W | A river that flows through the reservoir, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| The Dam | 29.4987° N, 81.8466° W | The dam that creates the reservoir, which provides deep water and plenty of structure for bass to feed on. |
| Gator Hole | 29.5056° N, 81.8462° W | A deep hole that provides plenty of cover and structure for bass to hide in. |
| Orange Springs | 29.4997° N, 81.8365° W | A spring that flows into the reservoir, providing clear water and plenty of structure for bass to feed on. |
5. Lake Tohopekaliga
Lake Tohopekaliga, often called Lake Toho, is the largest lake in Osceola County, Florida. It’s part of the upper Kissimmee River chain of lakes and spans approximately 22,700 acres.
The name Tohopekaliga comes from the Seminole Indian language, meaning “we will gather together here.” It is well-known for its bass fishing and hosts several yearly professional fishing tournaments.
Lake Toho is relatively shallow, with an average depth of about 10 feet. The lake’s bottom is mostly hard sand, but there are significant areas of soft muck, and it has extensive areas of marsh and aquatic vegetation, particularly along its shoreline.
These conditions create excellent habitat for largemouth bass and other fish species like bluegill and crappie.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Brown’s Point | 28.2625° N, 81.4097° W | A point that extends out into the lake, providing deep water and plenty of structure for bass to feed on. |
| Goblet’s Cove | 28.2662° N, 81.4068° W | A cove with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Makinson Island | 28.2826° N, 81.4216° W | An island with plenty of cover and structure for bass to hide in. |
| Paradise Cove | 28.2755° N, 81.4276° W | A cove with plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| North Steer Beach | 28.3025° N, 81.4074° W | A shallow area with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to feed in. |
6. Lake Seminole
Lake Seminole is a reservoir located in the southwestern corner of Georgia along its border with Florida. The lake is approximately 37,500 acres and was created in 1957 when the Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam was built on the Chattahoochee River.
The lake extends into both the Chattahoochee and Flint Rivers, and these rivers’ confluence forms the Apalachicola River.
Lake Seminole is renowned for its fishing opportunities, particularly for largemouth bass. It’s often considered one of the best bass fishing lakes in the United States. In addition to bass, other fish species, such as crappie, catfish, and bream, are also abundant in the lake.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Spring Creek | 30.6991° N, 84.8579° W | A creek that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Big Jim’s Cut | 30.7389° N, 84.9119° W | A canal that connects to the lake, providing plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| Sneads Park | 30.7109° N, 84.9444° W | A park with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Faceville Landing | 30.8668° N, 84.6249° W | A boat ramp that provides access to the lake. |
| Spring Creek Bridge | 30.7007° N, 84.8487° W | A bridge that spans Spring Creek, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
7. Lake Harris
Lake Harris, located in Central Florida’s Lake County, is the largest lake in the Harris Chain of Lakes. It covers over 13,788 acres and is an expansive lake known for its beautiful, clean water and recreational opportunities.
Named after Ebenezer Jackson Harris, a pioneer settler, Lake Harris has an average depth of about 8 feet, with a maximum depth of 20 feet. It’s connected to Little Lake Harris in the southeast.
Lake Harris is particularly noted for its excellent fishing opportunities, especially for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Horseshoe Island | 28.7640° N, 81.7862° W | An island with plenty of cover and structure for bass to hide in. |
| Buzzard Beach | 28.7662° N, 81.8097° W | A shallow area with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to feed in. |
| Dead River | 28.8036° N, 81.7356° W | A river that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Griffin Waterfront | 28.8101° N, 81.7422° W | A waterfront area with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to hide in. |
8. Lake Talquin
Lake Talquin is a man-made reservoir in the Florida Panhandle, west of Tallahassee. It’s an elongated lake that was created in 1927 with the completion of the Jackson Bluff Dam on the Ochlockonee River. The lake’s name is a portmanteau of the two cities it lies between, Tallahassee and Quincy.
Covering over 8,800 acres, Lake Talquin is known for its deep, clear waters, with an average depth of 15 feet and reaching up to 40 feet in some places. The Lake Talquin State Forest surrounds it, and its shorelines are largely undeveloped, providing beautiful natural scenery.
Lake Talquin is a popular spot for fishing, particularly for black crappie (speckled perch) and largemouth bass.
The lake is also home to striped bass, white bass, bluegill, shell cracker, and catfish.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rock Bluff | 30.4060° N, 84.4388° W | A bluff that extends out into the lake, providing deep water and plenty of structure for bass to feed on. |
| Hopkins Landing | 30.4498° N, 84.4850° W | A popular boat ramp that provides access to the lake. |
| Ingram’s Marina | 30.4486° N, 84.4856° W | A marina that provides boat rentals and access to the lake. |
| Coe Landing | 30.4554° N, 84.4816° W | A park with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Fort Braden | 30.4703° N, 84.5139° W | A shallow area with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to feed in. |
9. Lake George
Lake George is the second largest freshwater lake in Florida, after Lake Okeechobee. It spans over 46,000 acres and is located in the central part of the state, on the St. Johns River.
The lake is approximately 6 miles wide and 11 miles long, with an average depth of 8 feet and a maximum depth of 12 feet. It’s known for its clear water and sandy bottom, surrounded by wetlands, marshes, and forests.
Lake George is famous for fishing, particularly largemouth bass, striped bass, and blue crabs. Other fish species in Lake George including black crappie, bluegill, and catfish.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper Creek | 29.2086° N, 81.6326° W | A creek that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Silver Glen Springs | 29.1871° N, 81.5383° W | A spring that flows into the lake, providing clear water and plenty of structure for bass to feed on. |
| Hog Island | 29.1350° N, 81.6185° W | An island with plenty of cover and structure for bass to hide in. |
| Salt Springs Run | 29.2756° N, 81.6072° W | A river that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Drayton Island | 29.1158° N, 81.5565° W | An island with plenty of cover and structure for bass to hide in. |
Top Bass Fishing Spots on Lake George
10. Lake Placid
Lake Placid is a small freshwater lake located in the town of Lake Placid, in Highlands County, Florida. It’s one of over 27 lakes in and around the town, which is often referred to as the “Caladium Capital of the World” and the “Town of Murals.”
Lake Placid offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and water sports. It’s home to several species of fish, including largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill, making it a popular spot for anglers.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Istokpoga Canal | 27.3404° N, 81.2542° W | A canal that connects to Lake Istokpoga, providing plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| Grassy Island | 27.2356° N, 81.3705° W | An island with plenty of cover and structure for bass to hide in. |
| The Point | 27.2805° N, 81.3588° W | A point that extends out into the lake, providing deep water and plenty of structure for bass to feed on. |
| The Cove | 27.3093° N, 81.3445° W | A cove with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to hide in. |
| The Cut | 27.2827° N, 81.3457° W | A canal that connects to the lake, providing plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
11. Lake Eustis
Lake Eustis, located in Central Florida, is part of the Harris Chain of Lakes. Spanning approximately 7,000 acres, it’s connected to Lake Harris to the southwest via the Dead River and to Lake Dora to the southeast through the Dora Canal.
The lake’s average depth is about 10 feet, but it can reach up to 25 feet. Its shoreline is mostly urbanized, with the cities of Eustis and Tavares situated along its banks.
Lake Eustis is known for its largemouth bass fishing, with other species like catfish, crappie, and bluegill also present.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Haines Creek | 28.8127° N, 81.7200° W | A creek that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| The Dora Canal | 28.8068° N, 81.7254° W | A canal that connects to Lake Dora, providing plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| Ferran Park | 28.8524° N, 81.6851° W | A park with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Johnson’s Point | 28.8465° N, 81.6932° W | A point that extends out into the lake, providing deep water and plenty of structure for bass to feed on. |
| The Dead River | 28.8616° N, 81.7243° W | A river that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
12. Stick Marsh
Stick Marsh, also known as Farm 13, is a renowned fishing destination located in Fellsmere, Florida.
This man-made reservoir was created in 1987 when the St. Johns Water Management District flooded 6,500 acres of former farmland in an effort to filter agricultural runoff before it entered the St. Johns River.
As a result, the flooded landscape left behind a labyrinth of submerged roadbeds, fence lines, and tree stumps – hence the name “Stick Marsh.”
Stick Marsh is primarily known for its exceptional largemouth bass fishing.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| The Wall | 27.8598° N, 80.7292° W | A submerged wall that provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| The Rim Canal | 27.8559° N, 80.7302° W | A canal that surrounds the lake, providing plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| The Clumps | 27.8658° N, 80.7311° W | Clumps of submerged vegetation that provide cover for bass to hide in. |
| The Point | 27.8598° N, 80.7367° W | A point that extends out into the lake, providing deep water and plenty of structure for bass to feed on. |
| The Trench | 27.8575° N, 80.7320° W | A deep trench that provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
13. Lake Dora
Lake Dora is located in Lake County, Florida, and is part of the larger Harris Chain of Lakes. Covering around 4,500 acres, it’s a popular destination for boating and fishing.
The lake is connected to Lake Eustis through the Dora Canal and to Lake Beauclair via a short channel. It’s located near the towns of Mount Dora and Tavares, both of which offer boat ramps and waterfront parks for easy lake access.
Lake Dora is known for its excellent fishing, with largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill populating its waters.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| The Dora Canal | 28.8068° N, 81.7254° W | A canal that connects to Lake Eustis, providing plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| The Dead River | 28.8340° N, 81.7382° W | A river that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| The Beauclair Canal | 28.7976° N, 81.7023° W | A canal that connects to Lake Beauclair, providing plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| The Gourd Neck Springs | 28.8378° N, 81.7439° W | A spring that flows into the lake, providing clear water and plenty of structure for bass to feed on. |
| Gilbert Park | 28.8024° N, 81.7203° W | A park with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to hide in. |
14. Orange Lake
Orange Lake is a freshwater lake located in North Central Florida, near the town of Hawthorne in Alachua County. It covers an area of approximately 1,200 acres and has an average depth of about 9 feet, though it can reach up to 12 feet in some areas.
This lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for largemouth bass, bluegill, and black crappie. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission maintains a fish management area on the lake, and there’s a boat ramp available for easy water access.
The lake’s aquatic vegetation, such as hydrilla and water lilies, provide excellent cover and food for fish, making it an ideal habitat. The lake also has submerged trees and stumps that add to its character and provide additional fish habitat.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cross Creek | 29.5019° N, 82.2146° W | A creek that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Orange Lake Fish Camp | 29.4259° N, 82.2065° W | A fish camp that provides access to the lake. |
| The North Shore | 29.4638° N, 82.1749° W | The northern shore of the lake, which provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| The South Shore | 29.4081° N, 82.1736° W | The southern shore of the lake, which provides plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area | 29.4482° N, 82.2282° W | A conservation area that surrounds the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
15. Lake Beauclair
Lake Beauclair is a freshwater lake in Central Florida, part of the Harris Chain of Lakes. It’s situated in Lake County and spans approximately 1,140 acres.
The lake is connected to Lake Dora to the north via a short channel and Lake Carlton to the south through the Apopka-Beauclair Canal.
Lake Beauclair is celebrated for its excellent fishing prospects and hosts a diverse range of fish species, such as largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Beauclair Canal | 28.7976° N, 81.7023° W | A canal that connects to Lake Dora, providing plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| Apopka-Beauclair Canal | 28.7588° N, 81.5499° W | A canal that connects to Lake Apopka, providing plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| Dead River | 28.8082° N, 81.7311° W | A river that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Dora Canal | 28.8068° N, 81.7254° W | A canal that connects to Lake Dora, providing plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| South Shore | 28.7898° N, 81.7144° W | The southern shore of the lake, which provides plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
16. Lake Poinsett
Lake Poinsett is a large freshwater lake located in Brevard County, Florida. It’s part of the St. Johns River system and spans approximately 2,724 acres.
The lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities.
Lake Poinsett is a large freshwater lake located in Brevard County, Florida. It’s part of the St. Johns River system and spans approximately 2,724 acres.
Lake Poinsett is widely recognized for its outstanding fishing potential. It supports a variety of fish species, such as largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. With its mix of open water, underwater plant life, and marshlands, the lake offers an ideal environment for these species to thrive.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Indian River | 28.0422° N, 80.8535° W | A river that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| North Shore | 28.1095° N, 80.8606° W | The northern shore of the lake, which provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| South Shore | 28.0552° N, 80.8624° W | A conservation area surrounding the lake provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Barge Canal | 28.0697° N, 80.8530° W | The southern shore of the lake, provides plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| Lake Poinsett Conservation Area | 28.1026° N, 80.8745° W | The lake’s northern shore provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
17. Lake Carlton
Lake Carlton is located in Central Florida, part of the Harris Chain of Lakes. It spans approximately 378 acres and is connected to Lake Beauclair to the north and Lake Dora to the west via the Apopka-Beauclair Canal.
Largemouth bass in Lake Carlton are known for their size and fighting spirit, making every catch a rewarding experience for anglers.
Lake Carlton also hosts other fish species, like bluegill and crappie, offering additional angling opportunities.
Access to Lake Carlton for fishing can be obtained through Trimble Park, which has boat ramps for easy water access. Using a boat to reach the prime fishing spots is recommended, especially the areas with thick underwater vegetation where bass often hide.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| North Shore | 28.7865° N, 81.8127° W | The northern shore of the lake, which provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| South Shore | 28.7755° N, 81.8153° W | The southern shore of the lake, which provides plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| Carlton Island | 28.7812° N, 81.8186° W | An island in the middle of the lake that provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Carlton Creek | 28.7846° N, 81.8188° W | A creek that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Carlton Cove | 28.7787° N, 81.8159° W | A cove that provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
18. Lake Tarpon
Lake Tarpon, located just north of Tampa in Pinellas County, Florida, is renowned as one of the state’s best largemouth bass fishing destinations.
Covering around 2,500 acres with an average depth of approximately 14 feet, Lake Tarpon provides diverse habitats where largemouth bass thrive.
The lake produces large bass, with fish over 10 pounds not uncommon. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) manages the lake’s bass population, and it’s not unusual for fishing tournaments to be held here due to the quality of the fishing.
Aside from largemouth bass, Lake Tarpon hosts other fish species like bluegill, crappie, and catfish.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Anderson Park | 28.0895° N, 82.7229° W | A park with plenty of submerged vegetation and cover for bass to hide in. |
| North Shore | 28.1006° N, 82.7124° W | The northern shore of the lake provides plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| South Shore | 28.0802° N, 82.7226° W | The southern shore of the lake, which provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Tarpon Turtle | 28.0992° N, 82.7219° W | A restaurant with a dock that provides access to the lake. |
| Brooker Creek Preserve | 28.1007° N, 82.6726° W | A preserve that surrounds the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
19. Lake Griffin
Situated in Central Florida’s Lake County, Lake Griffin is part of the notable Harris Chain of Lakes. With a surface area encompassing nearly 9,428 acres, it’s the last lake in the Ocklawaha River watershed, which ultimately drains into the St. Johns River.
Lake Griffin is a hub for angling enthusiasts, with its waters teeming with various fish species. The largemouth bass attracts the most attention due to its size and abundance.
The lake’s underwater environment, filled with varied vegetation and depth changes, is an ideal sanctuary for these bass, promoting a healthy and thriving population.
This lake isn’t solely about largemouth bass. Anglers can also reel in other fish varieties, such as bluegill, crappie, and catfish.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area | 28.9107° N, 81.7538° W | A conservation area that surrounds the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Dead River | 28.8616° N, 81.7243° W | A river that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Haines Creek | 28.8127° N, 81.7200° W | A creek that flows into the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| North Shore | 28.9129° N, 81.7573° W | The northern shore of the lake, which provides plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| South Shore | 28.8988° N, 81.7582° W | The southern shore of the lake, which provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
20. Lake Yale
Nestled in Central Florida’s Lake County, Lake Yale is part of the esteemed Harris Chain of Lakes.
This freshwater lake spans around 4,013 acres and is known for its clear waters and peaceful surroundings. Unlike other lakes in the Harris Chain, Lake Yale is not connected by navigable waterways to the other lakes, making it a quieter and less trafficked water.
One of the lake’s main attractions is its angling potential. Lake Yale is a sanctuary for a multitude of fish species, but it’s especially lauded for its largemouth bass fishing.
While largemouth bass are the stars of the show, other fish species like bluegill and crappie are also prevalent in the lake, offering varied angling experiences.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| The North Shore | 28.9874° N, 81.6638° W | The northern shore of the lake, which provides plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| South Shore | 28.9694° N, 81.6616° W | The southern shore of the lake, which provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Yale Canal | 28.9724° N, 81.6627° W | A canal that connects to the Ocklawaha River, providing plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
| Lake Yale Baptist Conference Center | 28.9775° N, 81.6639° W | A conference center with a dock that provides access to the lake. |
| Lake Griffin State Park | 28.8477° N, 81.7539° W | A state park that surrounds the lake, providing plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
21. Golden Gate Canals
The Golden Gate Canal system is a vast network of canals located in Naples, Florida, within the Golden Gate community.
The canals were primarily designed for drainage to control the water levels and protect the area from flooding. Still, they also serve as a habitat for various wildlife and offer recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
From a fishing perspective, the Golden Gate Canals are known for their rich abundance of freshwater fish, especially largemouth bass. These canals hold impressive bass, with fish over five pounds relatively common.
The canal system’s diverse structure with bends, bridges, and culverts provides excellent cover and feeding grounds for bass, making it an exciting location for anglers.
In addition to largemouth bass, the canals support other species such as bluegill, catfish, and even exotic species like the Mayan cichlid, a kind of Tilapia, and peacock bass.
Access to the canals is relatively easy, with numerous points along the length of the system where anglers can fish from the bank.
Top Bass Fishing Spots
| Spot Name | GPS Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Gate Community Park | 26.1965° N, 81.7076° W | A park with a lake that provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Greenway Park | 26.2029° N, 81.6982° W | A park with a lake that provides plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Valencia Golf Course | 26.1944° N, 81.7107° W | A golf course with several ponds that provide plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Collier County Fairgrounds | 26.1577° N, 81.6883° W | A fairgrounds with several ponds that provide plenty of structure and cover for bass to hide in. |
| Golden Gate Canal Park | 26.1799° N, 81.7069° W | A park with a canal that provides plenty of deep water and structure for bass to feed on. |
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Tips For Bass Fishing in Florida
If you’re planning a bass fishing trip to Florida, some tips can help you catch more fish and have a successful day on the water. Here are some bass fishing tips for Florida:
Fish during the right time of year
In Florida, bass fishing can be good year-round, but certain times of the year are better than others. Generally, the best time to catch big bass is winter, when water temperatures are cooler.
During the summer, early morning and late afternoon are the best times to fish, as fish are more active.
Use the right lures
Spinner baits, and plastic worms are popular lures for catching bass in shallow water, while lipless crankbaits are effective in deeper water. Topwater lures, such as poppers and buzz baits, are also effective in Florida’s lakes, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
Target shallow water and aquatic vegetation
Florida’s lakes are known for their shallow water and abundance of aquatic vegetation, which provides great habitat for bass. Targeting areas with lily pads, Kissimmee grass, and other vegetation can be a great way to find fish.
Look for deeper water
While shallow water is great for finding fish, deeper water can also be productive. Look for areas with drop-offs, ledges, and other underwater structures, which can provide good hiding spots for bass.
Be prepared for cold fronts
Cold fronts can be common in Florida during the winter months and can cause fish to become less active. During these times, it’s important to slow down your retrieve and use smaller lures to entice bites.
Fish with a local guide
If you’re new to bass fishing in Florida or want to increase your chances of catching big fish, consider hiring a local guide. A guide can help you navigate the best locations and techniques for catching bass and can provide valuable insights and tips.
Following these bass fishing tips for Florida can increase your chances of catching big fish and having a successful day on the water. Remember always to follow local regulations and guidelines and practice catch-and-release fishing to help preserve and conserve Florida’s fish populations.
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Conclusion – Best Bass Fishing in Florida
Florida’s best bass fishing lakes allow anglers to catch big fish, explore beautiful scenery, and enjoy the great outdoors.
Whether you prefer fishing in shallow water with spinner baits or deep water with lipless crankbaits, Florida’s lakes have something to offer every angler.
With careful conservation efforts and responsible fishing practices, Florida’s lakes will continue to provide great bass fishing spots for years.
Thanks for reading, and if you have any questions or comments, please leave them below we love hearing from our readers. Until next time Happy Bass Fishing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are some of the best bass fishing lakes in Florida?
Florida is known for its excellent bass fishing lakes. Top-rated lakes include Lake Okeechobee, the Stick Marsh, Lake Tohopekaliga, Rodman Reservoir, and Lake Kissimmee.
What makes Lake Okeechobee a top spot for bass fishing?
Lake Okeechobee, often called Florida’s Inland Sea, is the largest freshwater lake in Florida. It’s a top destination for largemouth bass due to its high fish population and the large size of the bass.
Can you tell me more about the Stick Marsh?
The Stick Marsh, located in Fellsmere, is one of the best trophy bass lakes in the country. It’s a relatively new fishery, created in the late 80s, and has quickly become renowned for its high-quality bass fishing.
What kind of bass can I catch in Lake Tohopekaliga?
Lake Tohopekaliga, also known as Lake Toho, is primarily known for its largemouth bass. It’s a popular destination for both recreational anglers and professional bass fishing tournaments.
When is the best time to fish for bass in Rodman Reservoir?
Rodman Reservoir offers year-round bass fishing, but the best times to catch trophy-sized bass are during the cooler months, from late fall to early spring, when the bass are spawning.
Are there specific fishing regulations I should be aware of when bass fishing in Florida lakes?
Yes, Florida has specific fishing regulations to maintain the health and sustainability of its bass populations. These rules can vary by lake and species, so it’s important to check the latest fishing regulations from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission before fishing.
Cory Haasnoot
Cory is a content writer-editor and founder of Tackle Box Talk. Favorite Quote: "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime."