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West Lake

Miami-Dade County, Florida. West Lake ends in Homestead, Florida. 5.24 miles (8.44 sq kilometers)

About The West Lake

About West Lake, FL

West Lake is a lake located in Miami-Wade County in Florida. It runs 8.44 miles in size and is situated .7 miles from North Miami Beach. West Lake is part of the 3 million acres of ponds, lakes, and reservoirs that make the state the Fishing Capital of the World. This title attracts about 1.2 million anglers yearly and has caused them to experience 25.7 million days of recreational fishing in Florida's fresh waters alone. 

West Lake Fishing Description

All About Fishing in West Lake, FL

Anglers can find an assortment of fish species in West Lake. One of the most popular catches here is bluegill. This species is common in the state of Florida, especially in lakes and ponds. When fishing bluegill, you can use either live worms or crickets, since they mostly feed on insects. If you want to get a bite from bedding bluegill, you can also try sand maggots, grubs, and grass shrimp.

You can also spot largemouth bass in West Lake. Florida largemouth bass are larger than the general population, so they are a prized catch for most anglers. They also make the state one of the best bass fishing locations in the world. Largemouth bass are famous for their nickname “tackle buster,” which refers to their willingness to bite anytime. Since they are not picky eaters, you are free to choose between live bait and artificial lures. When fishing largemouth bass, be sure to stay in places with cover because this is where they commonly conceal to stalk their prey. Common types of cover include grass, rock, wood, and lily pads.

Another species present in the lake is bullheads. Bullheads are one of the most popular small game fish in the United States. However, due to their tendency to fight hard, they are also one of the challenging ones to catch. Bullheads prefer to stay in warm areas. Since the shallow waters in the lake usually have a higher temperature, you wanna cast your line on these spots. Live worms and a small chunk of smelly meat can get them to bite. West Lake also offers pumpkinseed. While this species is considered a forage fish and not essential in commercial and recreational fishing, it can still provide hours of thrilling action.

Apart from fishing at West Lake, visitors can choose to explore other parts of the county. Miami-Wade is a world-famous tourist destination whose recreational opportunities are endless. Scenic views, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife are just some of the other great reasons why this place is an adventurer’s playground.

West Lake Seasonal & Other Description

Fishing Seasonality 

The great thing about Miami-Wade and its abundant water bodies is that you can always experience fishing action. While certain seasons tend to be more productive than the others, the county offers great fishing all year long. In West Lake, you can spot bluegill in congregations during summer. Largemouth bass are also available throughout the year, although spring is regarded as their peak season. Generally, the best times to go fishing in West Lake are 2 AM to 5 AM, 8 AM to 10 AM, and 3 PM to 6 PM. 

Temperature and Optimal Seasons

Fishing Seasonality 

The great thing about Miami-Wade and its abundant water bodies is that you can always experience fishing action. While certain seasons tend to be more productive than the others, the county offers great fishing all year long. In West Lake, you can spot bluegill in congregations during summer. Largemouth bass are also available throughout the year, although spring is regarded as their peak season. Generally, the best times to go fishing in West Lake are 2 AM to 5 AM, 8 AM to 10 AM, and 3 PM to 6 PM. 

West Lake Fish Species

All About Fishing in West Lake, FL

Anglers can find an assortment of fish species in West Lake. One of the most popular catches here is bluegill. This species is common in the state of Florida, especially in lakes and ponds. When fishing bluegill, you can use either live worms or crickets, since they mostly feed on insects. If you want to get a bite from bedding bluegill, you can also try sand maggots, grubs, and grass shrimp.

You can also spot largemouth bass in West Lake. Florida largemouth bass are larger than the general population, so they are a prized catch for most anglers. They also make the state one of the best bass fishing locations in the world. Largemouth bass are famous for their nickname “tackle buster,” which refers to their willingness to bite anytime. Since they are not picky eaters, you are free to choose between live bait and artificial lures. When fishing largemouth bass, be sure to stay in places with cover because this is where they commonly conceal to stalk their prey. Common types of cover include grass, rock, wood, and lily pads.

Another species present in the lake is bullheads. Bullheads are one of the most popular small game fish in the United States. However, due to their tendency to fight hard, they are also one of the challenging ones to catch. Bullheads prefer to stay in warm areas. Since the shallow waters in the lake usually have a higher temperature, you wanna cast your line on these spots. Live worms and a small chunk of smelly meat can get them to bite. West Lake also offers pumpkinseed. While this species is considered a forage fish and not essential in commercial and recreational fishing, it can still provide hours of thrilling action.

Apart from fishing at West Lake, visitors can choose to explore other parts of the county. Miami-Wade is a world-famous tourist destination whose recreational opportunities are endless. Scenic views, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife are just some of the other great reasons why this place is an adventurer’s playground.