5.0(2 Reviews)Private Lake Okeechobee Fishing Charters
5.0(2 reviews)
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
4hour private charter targeting Largemouth and Peacock BassAll lures included with optional live bait availableMaximum 2 guests on Lake Okeechobee and Everglades waters
Welcome to some of Florida's most legendary bass fishing waters! Captain JP, known around here as the Bass Whisperer, runs top-rated private charters on Lake Okeechobee and into the vast Everglades system. This isn't your typical tourist fishing trip – we're talking about a genuine 4-hour adventure targeting heavyweight Largemouth Bass and exotic Peacock Bass in waters that have made fishing legends. You'll get the boat to yourself (up to 2 anglers), all the lures you need, and the kind of local knowledge that turns good fishing days into epic ones. Whether you're a weekend warrior looking to upgrade your game or a seasoned angler wanting to tackle Florida's most renowned bass waters, this charter delivers the real deal.
Your day starts early on the legendary "Big O" – that's what we call Lake Okeechobee around these parts. At over 730 square miles, this shallow lake is bass heaven, with endless grass flats, canal mouths, and structure that holds fish year-round. Captain JP knows every productive point, grass line, and honey hole worth hitting. The boat is rigged with everything you need to chase both Largemouth and Peacock Bass, plus we'll have shots at scrappy Panfish like Bream and those feisty Oscar. The scenery changes as we work different areas – from open water with scattered vegetation to tight Everglades channels where the canopy closes in and you feel like you're in old Florida. Don't worry if you're new to these waters; JP reads the conditions and adjusts tactics throughout the day. Some days we're flipping heavy cover, other times we're working topwater over grass beds at first light.
We provide all the artificial lures, but here's an insider tip – if you want to dial up the action, live Shiners are absolute bass magnets in these waters. Captain JP can point you toward Native Shiners at $10 per dozen or premium Wild Golden Shiners for $20 a dozen. These aren't your average bait shop shiners – the golden ones are bass candy, especially for those trophy Largemouth that have seen every plastic worm in the tackle box. We'll match the technique to conditions and what the fish are telling us. Early morning might mean buzzbaits and frogs over the grass, while midday could have us punching through thick matted vegetation with heavy jigs. Peacock Bass love different presentations entirely – they're suckers for bright spinnerbaits and fast-moving lures that trigger their aggressive strikes. JP keeps multiple rods rigged so you can switch tactics quickly when we locate active fish.
"John the Bass Whisperer is truly one of a kind. The moment you step on the boat with him, you know you're in for an incredible time. It's not just about fishing—it's about the whole experience. His energy is contagious, his knowledge is unmatched, and somehow his luck rubs off on you. Even on a tough day, you'll be reeling them in like a pro. I had an absolute blast and can honestly say fishing with John is a guaranteed good time. 10/10—I'll be booking with him again without hesitation!" - Gian
"Awesome experience. Book with JP directly for the best prices and best experience in the Everglades." - Rose
Largemouth Bass are the crown jewel of Lake Okeechobee, and for good reason. These aren't your typical pond bass – Okeechobee Largemouth are thick-shouldered bruisers that average 2-4 pounds with plenty of 6-8 pounders mixed in. They thrive in the lake's shallow, vegetation-rich environment, feeding heavily on shiners, bluegill, and crawfish. The best action typically runs from late fall through early spring when cooler water temperatures make them more active, but skilled guides like JP know how to locate them year-round. What makes catching Okeechobee bass so special is their fight – they use the shallow water and heavy cover to their advantage, making long runs and trying to wrap your line around every piece of structure they can find. When you hook a big female in the grass, you'll understand why anglers travel from across the country just to fish these waters.
Peacock Bass add an exotic twist to your Florida fishing adventure. Originally from South America, these colorful fighters have found a perfect home in South Florida's warm waters, particularly in the canal systems that connect to the Everglades. They're smaller than Largemouth, typically running 1-3 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in attitude. Peacocks are aggressive predators that will absolutely crush a well-presented lure, often jumping clear out of the water multiple times during the fight. Their striking colors – bright yellows, oranges, and that distinctive "peacock" eyespot on the tail – make them a favorite for photos. They're most active during warmer months and love areas with current and structure. Unlike Largemouth that might study your lure, Peacocks tend to react on instinct, making for fast-paced action when you find a school.
Lake Okeechobee isn't going anywhere, but the fishing changes with every season, weather front, and moon phase. Captain JP's calendar fills up fast, especially during prime fishing months when the bass are most active. This is world-class bass fishing with a customer-favorite guide who's earned his reputation one satisfied angler at a time. You're not just booking a fishing trip – you're getting access to decades of local knowledge, proven techniques, and waters that have produced more memorable bass than most anglers see in a lifetime. Whether you're chasing your personal best Largemouth or want to experience
Meet the 21' Storm, your ticket to serious bass fishing on Lake Okeechobee's legendary waters. This 2009 bass boat packs a punch with its 250HP Mercury Pro XS engine that'll get you to the hotspots fast, cruising at speeds up to 45 knots across the lake's vast expanse. Built for two anglers who want the full Lake O experience without the crowds. Captain JP has this rig dialed in for success with a fish finder to locate those trophy Largemouth and Peacock Bass hiding in the grass lines and structure. The wireless trolling motor lets you work the shallows quietly without spooking fish, while the onboard icebox keeps your drinks cold and your catch fresh during those productive Florida sessions. Whether you're throwing artificials or working live Shiners around the rim canal, this boat handles the big water and tight spots with equal confidence.
Micropterus SalmoidesThese green fighters average 12-24 inches and 1-4 pounds, but don't let the size fool you - they'll give you a proper battle when hooked. Look for them around weed beds, fallen trees, and shallow muddy areas where they like to ambush prey. That massive mouth extends past their eyes, perfect for gulping down shiners, bluegill, and even frogs. Spring through early summer is prime time when they're active and aggressive. What makes largemouth special is their raw power - they'll jump, dive, and test your drag like few other freshwater fish. Here's a local trick: they're drawn to red colors, so tie on something with red accents when the bite gets tough. The meat's decent eating too if you keep a few from clean water.
Cichla OcellarisThese colorful South American transplants are Florida's most aggressive freshwater fighters, running 12-14 inches on average with stunning yellow, green, and orange patterns. Unlike largemouth, peacock bass hunt during daylight hours around bridges, canal intersections, and rocky structure in warm water. They can't handle temps below 60 degrees, so peak action runs March through June and September through December. What sets them apart is pure aggression - they'll hammer topwater lures and fight twice as hard as bass their size. Skip the plastic worms though; they prefer live golden shiners or flashy spoons and crankbaits. Pro tip: target shaded areas under bridges during midday heat - that's where the bigger ones hang out waiting to ambush baitfish.
5.0 out of 5.0John the Bass Whisperer is truly one of a kind. The moment you step on the boat with him, you know you’re in for an incredible tim...
Awesome experience. Book with JP directly for the best prices and best experience in the Everglades.
Lake Okeechobee