Book Your Fishing Charter in South Bay, FL

South Bay, Florida, is where you go to experience great fishing without the big crowds.

Book Your Fishing Charter in South Bay, FL
Book Your Fishing Charter in South Bay, FL
Team Guidesly

August 26, 2021, 3 min read

Updated on June 19, 2023

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Want to visit the fishing capital of the world but don’t like being with large crowds? Or perhaps you’re looking for the best spot to catch largemouth bass in Florida? If you answer yes to at least one of these questions, then South Bay is the fishing destination for you. The city lies at the crossroads of two highways: State Road 80 and US Route 27. Not only that, as its name implies, South Bay is located at Lake Okeechobee’s southern shores. This lake is not only the largest freshwater lake in Florida; it is also the bass fishing capital of the world. For the more competitive anglers, there are also fishing tournaments held in the lake’s bountiful waters. South Bay, thus, is perfect for anglers who want an exciting fishing experience but not the crowds that go along with it.  

South Bay: Crossroads Fishing

Good weather and plentiful vegetation mean that fishing occurs all year round here in South Bay, FL. You can visit here pretty much at any time and expect to land at least several of the largemouth and peacock bass swimming Lake Okeechobee. With these in mind, you can already see why this lake is considered the world’s bass capital. Each month brings a different gamefish to the spotlight, so you won’t grow tired of capturing just bass. Crappie, spotted sunfish, and channel catfish take over the spotlight in their respective months, but bass remains in plentiful supply in the lake’s waters throughout the year. 

The top fish species to target are: 

  • Largemouth bass: This fish is available throughout the year but becomes more common from February to May and September to December. 
  • Peacock bass: Another fish that’s available throughout the year; this becomes more common from June-August. 
  • Crappie: Another available fish but not as common as the previous two as it peaks during January and February and then in December. 
  • Spotted sunfish: This fish is not as common as bass but still pretty common. Its numbers will peak from January to February and from September to December. 
  • Channel catfish: Will start appearing in large numbers from April to November. 

South Bay Florida: A Different Florida Fishing Experience

Although it doesn’t boast the same white-sand beaches and urban backdrop as the other famous fishing destinations in Florida, South Bay still has its own unique rural charm. The city is the perfect destination for anglers who want to cast their lines in Florida in a more natural setting.

1. The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail 

Want to exercise those legs of yours? Then try out exploring the areas around Lake Okeechobee via the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail or LOST. This trail is a part of the Florida National Scenic Trail System and offers opportunities for bird watching and observing the state’s native species. The LOST also passes through the sugarcane fields that get their nourishment from the lake’s waters. 

2. Enjoy the South Bay RV Campground

Don’t know where to stay in South Bay after fishing? South Bay also offers an RV Campground for those who wish to camp after a day of fishing. Not only is it close to Lake Okeechobee, but it also offers amenities such as portable wifi, a basketball court, and even laundry for its visitors. This campground is the perfect mix of natural beauty and modern amenities for those who wish to experience both. 

Fish in South Bay and beyond.