End of Summer LAKE OKEECHOBEE Update: Amid all of the slogans, sounds bites, and allegations, Bass fishing on Lake Okeechobee this summer was much better than the news, media outlets and politicians wanted you to believe. As a professional fishing guide, my business, as well as my personal fishing adventures, did not suffer in the quality or quantity of BASS being caught. Any scientist will tell you that algae is found naturally in lakes and streams all over the world, not just Lake Okeechobee. The solution to resolve the issue has been an ongoing debate since the Army Corp of Engineers took responsibility for the water management of the lake. Please do not let an election year “muddy” your bucket list dream of fishing here.
I honestly can tell you it is still taking 30lbs to win a one-day tournament. Last weekend it took 32 lbs to win it {5 fish} on the west side of the lake. I personally fished my South FL Bass Rattlers club tournament on the 8th and caught a beauty at 9.81lbs winning tournament big fish, but still only placing 3rd for the day. The BASS are out there and know how to survive and thrive in summer conditions.
Despite all the news about the lake and the algae, the fish are very healthy and look good. The best bait has been flipping a jig. There have been some schooling fish at Cochran’s Pass. Throwing a Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap has been really good or a Spook. I have also been fishing the Shoal if the wind will let you. I highly recommend fishing the following areas too Grassy Island, Kings Bar, Tin House, Monkey Box, South Bay.
Now that the dog days of summer are winding down, the excitement about fall and our season is upon us. I’m still fishing up to about 11:00am – 1:00pm to avoid the afternoon thunderstorms that roll in each day. With the daily rain and the slowing down of the discharge, the lake is still well over 14ft. The water clarity on the North, Northwest and South Bay and the Shoal area is great. The water temp has been ranging between 89 -93 degrees.
If you have any questions or concerns about Lake Okeechobee bass fishing, please call me. I will be more than happy to share the latest information, photos and catch details with you.
This picture of me shows the 9.81 Bass that I flipped up with a big jig.
