Fishing is a popular pastime in Florida. In fact, the state has more than 7,500 bodies of freshwater and more than 12,000 miles of public fishing areas. Fishing is such a widespread hobby and there is no shortage of that here in the sunshine state. If you’re visiting this great state for the first time, it can be difficult to know where the best places to fish are. But what are the best places to fish in Florida?
You may have heard rumors about different bodies of water being better for certain types of fishing. You may see articles online suggesting secret fishing spots that are off the beaten path. As an outsider without expert knowledge, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to find the best places to go fishing in Florida. Fortunately, we’ve done some research and compiled this helpful guide. Enjoy learning about the best places to fish in Florida.
Crystal River
There are a lot of different species of fish that live in the state’s rivers, but some of the best ones to go after are redfish, seatrout, and snook. While all three of these species are fantastic to eat, they are even better if you go after them for the experience.
You may have heard of or even experienced the “rush” of catching a big snapper. Or perhaps you’re more interested in a challenge and want to see if you can snag the catch of a lifetime. No matter which one you choose, you’ll be in for a great time!
What are some other cool things to know about Crystal River, FL? It’s one of the few places in the United States where you can swim with manatees. During the colder months, these adorable creatures congregate in the warm waters of Kings Bay. They’re such laid-back creatures that you can get in the water with them and float along. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Lake Tarpon
Tarpon Lake is located between Tarpon Springs and Palm Harbor. This freshwater lake is home to record-breaking fish, so if you’re hoping to catch a whopper of a fish, this is the place to go. When the lake is at normal levels, the best places to fish are directly in front of the Tarpon Lodge.
Because this is a freshwater lake, you’ll be able to use different types of bait than you would on saltwater fishing spots. Popular freshwater bait options include crickets, night crawlers, grass hoppers, and waxworms.
Lake Seminole
Looking to fish on the Florida-Georgia line? Lake Seminole is located in the northern part of Florida, near the border with Georgia. This freshwater lake is known for producing large bass. If you’re looking to catch some large fish, this is a good spot to visit.
The lake is stocked with a variety of fish each year, including largemouth bass, striped bass, white bass, sauger, bluegill, crappie, and flathead catfish. There are also wild redear and longear sunfish, as well as white and threadfin shad in the waters. In fact, there are a total of 46 fish species living in Lake Seminole.
The Department of Wildlife Conservation stocks the lake with a variety of different species each year. You can usually find a good variety of fish in the lake throughout the year. Many people fish for catfish in this lake in the fall, but you can catch them any time of year here. You can usually catch a good variety of fish in this lake throughout the year.
Lake Okahumpka
Lake Okahumpka is located in Central Florida, northwest of Orlando. This large freshwater lake has a diverse ecosystem and is home to a wide variety of fish, including catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, and blue tilapia.
If you’re interested in catching several different kinds of fish, this is a good place to visit. Most of the best places to fish around the lake are found along the shoreline near the Visitor’s Center, the Department of Environmental Protection Office, and the Okahumpka Boat Ramp.
Intercoastal Waterway
The Intercoastal Waterway is a large waterway that runs through the Atlantic coast of Florida, spanning around 3,000 miles. This body of water is home to a variety of fish, including snook, redfish, cobia, and tarpon.
If you’re looking to catch some large fish, this is a good place to visit. Most of the best places to fish along the Intercoastal Waterway are located in the mangrove areas. Some of the best spots for fishing in this area include the Palm Beach Inlet, Boynton Inlet, and the Hillsboro Inlet.
Lake Iamonia
Lake Iamonia is located in the panhandle, north of Tallahassee. This freshwater lake sees a lot of fishing activity every year, and it has a wide variety of fish. There’s no shortage of fish and fun times to experience while you’re at Lake Iamonia. Black crappie is one of the most popular and sought-after fish in this lake.
Other activities to do around Lake Iamonia include swimming, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, windsurfing, or exploring the lake’s natural beauty by boat. You can also discover one of the many nearby cultural attractions, visit a local winery, or spend the day outdoors with your family at one of the parks in the Lake Iamonia area.
Hillsborough River
The Hillsborough River flows from the Green Swamp to Tampa Bay. This freshwater river is home to bass, Florida gar, longnose gar, and much more.
Another attraction of the Hillsborough River is the Hillsborough State Park. The state park is located on the eastern bank of the Hillsborough River, about 30 miles from downtown Tampa. Hillsborough River State Park is a family-friendly place to visit that offers activities for everyone.
There are many outdoor activities to choose from, including canoeing, fishing, swimming, tubing, hiking, and bird watching. Visitors can also enjoy many cultural activities, such as visiting the museums in downtown Tampa or exploring one of the many historic sites in the area.
Other Places to Fish in Florida
If you’re looking for a wide variety of fish, Tampa Bay is a great place to go fishing. This large estuary is home to snook, redfish, grouper, sea trout, mackerel, cobia, and many more species of fish. If you’re interested in catching largemouth bass, you can head over to Lake Worth, Lake Harris, or Lake Worth Lagoon.
If you’re interested in catching grouper, there are plenty of places to do so in Florida. However, Crystal River is one of the top destinations in the state. This is the same for those who are looking to catch snook, sheepshead and cobia.
Best Places to Fish in Florida: Try a Fishing Charter in Crystal River
There’s no better place to go fishing in Florida than in Crystal River. You’ll find a wide variety of fish in every corner of the state, and you’ll also be able to enjoy the many beautiful sights that Florida has to offer when you’re not fishing.
If you’re visiting Florida for the first time, it can be difficult to know where the best places to fish are. Fortunately, we’ve done some research and compiled this helpful guide on where you should go if you want to catch some fish while you’re in Florida. Be sure to contact us now and schedule a charter tour, giving you a one-of-a-kind fishing experience here in Crystal River.