The lakes in central Florida offer many great spots for fishing. This combined with the great weather allows you to fish all year round. The large mouth bass is the best known and most popular fresh water fish in Florida. The central lakes are known for large bass and trophy sized fish are routinely found in these waters.
The Bass World Lodge on St. Johns River is a very good spot for large fish. Lake Okeechobee is a very large lake in the middle of the state. The name means big water in the language of the Seminole Indians. The name is very fitting for this particular body of water. The lake is thirty seven miles long and thirty miles wide. In most areas, the lake is ten feet deep. A large number of bass are found here. There are more fish caught here weighing over ten pounds than any other lake in central Florida.
Lake Toho is the most popular lake in the Kissimmee chain. This is a shallow lake that is about 18,800 acres of water. The aquatic vegetation in the lake offers abundant food for fish. This makes good spawning grounds and allows for plenty of fish. The fish grow quite large with the abundant food supply. A fishing tournament is held here each year in the fall.
The bass is most abundant during the spawning season. This occurs between December and April of every year. During this time, fish weighing from eight pounds all the way up to the high teens can be caught in the lakes around this part of the state.
If you are planning to fish on your trip, there are some things you will need. You will need a Florida fishing license. These can be purchased at most bait or tackle shops in the state. The weather tends to be hot and the sun is strong, so you will need protection. Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Wear light weight, comfortable clothing to help keep cool in the hot weather. Bring along a rod, tackle and a camera to capture a picture of the big one.
Guided fishing tours are available at most large lakes. These can be half day or full day trips. The rates for the tours vary according to the company and time of year. Reduced rates are available for larger parties. Some guided tours provide tackle. Be sure to ask when you book the tour.
State Parks near Central Florida Lakes
The state park system in Florida is one of the largest in the country. There are over twenty that are not far from the downtown Orlando area. Many are located near large lakes as well. Some of the closest parks to the downtown area include: Wekiwa Springs State Park and Tosohatchee State Reserve.
The proximity of the parks allows you to experience nature, while staying close to the theme parks. You will find wildlife, vegetation and native birds. A variety of animals call the state parks home. Some of the animals you may encounter include: alligators, turtles, river otters, raccoons, bobcats, black bears, foxes and deer. A variety of birds can be found in the parks as well. Bald Eagles, ospreys, turkey, owls, hawks and sand hill cranes are often found in state parks.
