Fishing in Florida

Fishing in Florida

By Nigel G. Worrall

Traditionally, a Florida vacation would include a visit to Walt Disney World Resorts and Universal Studios. Other days are perhaps filled with trips to the many other attractions and things to do in and around Orlando that time soon passes and you find yourself returning back home in no time. So what if you had time for a slower pace of life, time to just while away the hours and time to just completely relax without having to dash here, there and everywhere?

It is possible to have the best of both worlds. Sure, enjoy the attractions and theme parks but don’t forget to relax your mind as well and if you are an outdoors person, then why not enjoy some fishing in Florida? A few hours spent alone or with the family in tow to enjoy this popular pastime can make the difference to how rested and relaxed you feel when it is finally time to pack up and head home.

Florida is a haven for fishermen and women and is often called “the Fishing Capital of the World” because of its great resources and responsible management. The diversity of sport fish, habitats, great weather and year round fishing make for the perfect environment that is hard to surpass. Listed below are some of the great places to explore for those interested in an off-beat vacation on vacation:

Lake Okeechobee is the second biggest lake within the United States is Lake Okeechobee in Florida. The “Big O” has one of the finest freshwater fishing options and is the habitat for several species of fish such as the large mouth bass, crappie, catfish bream and bluegill. Popular fishing spots on or around the lake include:

• Bass species of fish can be observed and caught at the flats stretching from the boat lock at Henry Creek towards Chancey Bay. At Nubblin Slough, these can be caught round the year;

• Area behind Eagle Bay Island is great for catching all species of Panfish;

• From January through April, Eagle Bay is prime large mouth region as the lake is at its fullest; and

• The rocky area north of North Lake Shoal (Kings Bar) is abundant in bluegill species.

Located east of the City of Lake Wales, in the heart of Osceola County, Lake Kissimmee is one of the best large mouth lakes in the United States. One of the largest impounds on the Kissimmee River in Central Florida, Lake Kissimmee has been restored in the past few years with introduction of ecologically favorable vegetation. A few of the popular tourist and fishing spots on or around the lake include the highway 60 bridge area stretching to the Shady Oaks Fish Camp, deep-water break off the east side of Brahma Island, the southeast corner of Brahma Island, the cut behind Brahma Island, extending between Rocky Point and Otter Slough, and the westernmost point of Brahma Island and the ironically named small cove called Polluted Waters.

Fishing in Florida is not just about lakes and rivers- Mosquito Lagoon, a fishing estuary located just 45 minutes from Orlando is one of the best locations for beginners as well as expert anglers to catch Redfish, Sea Trout, Snook, Tarpon and more. Mangroves here provide a great hiding place for Snook and ‘tailing’ Redfish can easily be spotted. This is also an excellent place to observe Dolphins, Manatees and many other sea animals and flora in their natural surroundings.

Pier Fishing in Florida– On the west coast, Jacksonville and St. Petersburg have plenty of piers where fishing is allowed. For those who prefer to soak up the sunshine and enjoy the good food and company of friends away from tour guides, bass boars and GPS’s sounds, pier fishing locations spotted throughout Florida are wonderful options.

Other great options for fishing in Florida are Lake George, Lake Toho, River/Lake Seminole (Near the City of Chattahoochee), Lake Talquin / Ochlockonee River, Lake Weir (located in south Marion County near Ocala) and Lake Monroe in Sanford but there is a hidden secret you may not be familiar with.

Florida offers some great fishing options when you rent a vacation villa or vacation home. Many vacation homes are located in areas where there are small lakes to fish in and these vacation rentals are great options when you are looking to control your budget. The great thing about them is that you don’t have to compromise on any of the 5 star luxuries you are used to as most vacation homes have a private swimming pool, gaming rooms, a full size kitchen, comfortable living spaces, several bedrooms and the ability for each member of the family to do exactly as they wish.

Fishing in Florida can be fun for all the family and you’ll have plenty of options when the cry of “take me fishing” is heard.

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