Freshwater Fishing in Florida
Freshwater fishing in Florida ranges from world-renowned largemouth bass tournament lakes to small panfish ponds.
Florida Freshwater Fishing
Florida freshwater fishing spots range from lakes, ponds, and reservoirs to rivers and canal systems. If you need some help making a decision on which part of the state to visit and what to fish for, you can always check a Florida freshwater fishing report online.
Local fishing reports from across the state will often provide the following information:
- Which freshwater species are biting
- Baits or lures that are working best
- Waterways to fish in different parts of the state
If you are wondering how to fish freshwater in Florida if you don’t have a boat, don't worry. There are plenty of spots that offer both shoreline and boat access. Lake Kissimmee State Park, for example, offers direct access to Lake Kissimmee via multiple boat ramps, but also offers shoreline fishing from the canal banks or marina.
Florida Freshwater Fish Species
While the largemouth bass is one of the most popular freshwater game fish in the state of Florida, species such as channel catfish, redear sunfish, black crappie, bluegill, chain pickerel, peacock bass, and sunshine bass also inhabit the state's waterways.
Check the freshwater fishing in Florida regulations to find out about species length limits, bag limits, and any special rules that apply to gear or in wildlife management areas. You will also need to have a freshwater Florida fishing license.
How to Start Freshwater Fishing in Florida
To start fishing, just buy your Florida freshwater fishing license online and assemble a few freshwater fishing tackle basics. You really only need a rod and reel combo, some fishing line, and a few lures or live bait with hooks. From there, it's just a matter of deciding where you want to fish and heading to your selected spot.