Top 10 Fishing Tips When Fishing in Lake Okeechobee

Nicknamed "Florida's Inland Sea.", Lake Okeechobee's name originates from the native terms Oki and chobi, which translate to "large water." Large waters mean even bigger fish. The lake covers up to 730 water kilometers and is famous for freshwater fishing trips and bass fishing, particularly largemouth bass.

A fast boat with outboard motors up to 250 horsepower is optional for Okeechobee fishing, but having one would be advantageous, especially if you're going Florida spearfishing. Due to the vastness of Lake Okeechobee, a boat would be beneficial as you can easily traverse your way around a splendid lake like Okeechobee. Here is a Florida freshwater fishing guide you might want to read before you go for a trophy bass:

1. Make safety your number one concern. 

As an angler, always keep safety in mind, even if you might be eager to get out on the water and try some new things. Check your safety equipment list to ensure you have everything you need, and bring an EPIRB (GPS) and a personal locating beacon with you. Remember that EPIRBs aren't just for big freshwater charters; you can carry the best EPIRB for small boat use and feel secure in an emergency.

2. Leave early

What is called "Night fishing Florida" doesn't work as well during the summer. As the saying goes, "the early worm gets the early fish," or does it? During the summer months in Florida, the best fishing possibilities frequently occur as the sun rises. Start by casting a topwater lure in the "walk-the-dog" fashion close to grassy spots or vegetation borders. 

3. Maintain a Slow Presenting Pace

Want bigger fish? Maintain a slow presenting pace. As the water temperatures rise in Florida during the summer, remember that bass wants to conserve as much energy as possible. You should see more strikes if you steadily work your lures and baits.

4. Find Schools of Moving Bait

Finding schools of moving bait fish is essential for summertime fishing success in Lake Okeechobee. Keep a close lookout for activity on the water's surface during this time of year since big fish like largemouth bass frequently hunt schools of shad, shiners, or bluegill. Try tossing out a swimbait or crankbait that closely resembles the species of bait fish you've seen when you notice the bait fish rushing up toward the surface.

5. Check the Weather

Always check the weather before scheduling a day of Lake Okeechobee fishing during the summer. It doesn't take much wind to create large waves on the great lake because it is shallow (730 square miles, average depth of 9 feet). Due to its subtropical environment, summer thunderstorms are possible in Florida, so keep a weather radio close by and monitor the forecast frequently. Keep in mind that Florida's best fishing days are also safe.

6. Look for Areas with Shelter in Summer

Every summer fishing report for Lake Okeechobee will advise you to look for either location with current or areas with shelter. The most crucial advice for bass fishing in Lake Okeechobee is to concentrate on places with a cover or moving water where the water is likely to be more relaxed.

7. Use Fish Finder or Sonar

Use your fish finder or sonar to locate underwater structures if you're fishing from a boat. Ledges, holes, and drop-offs are all examples of structure. Because these locations offer shelter for ambushing animals, big bass will flock closer to structures during the summer, landing you closer to your trophy fish.

8. Change Baits

Change to a lure or bait that can be worked more profoundly in the water column or on the bottom as the summer light rises higher in the sky. When fish dive to avoid the midday sun, senkos, soft plastic worms, and soft plastic creature baits are all worth a try. Cut baits, stink baits, cheese baits, and nightcrawlers are the best if you're aiming for catfish.

9. Hire a fishing guide

Consider hiring a seasoned Lake Okeechobee fishing guide when planning your first trip. A quick search of "lake Okeechobee fishing guide rates" will tell you how much you will be paying. Skilled guides like Captain Ed Zyak Guide Service, Tuna Wahoo Charters, Uncharted Charters, or Dostay Sportfishing Charters will be well-versed in the seasonal fishing trends and the water's specific characteristics. 

10. Fishing Spots

If you go alone and want a good fishing spot, south bay, the Shoal, Monkey Box, Harney Pond, and the North Shore are some of the top Lake Okeechobee fishing spots. Harney Pond is better shielded than the other four locations if the wind is a concern. If you can locate a clear lake that hasn't been agitated by the wind, your chances will be higher.