The Okeechobee Lake in Florida gets its name from the Native Americans who used to live there. It has a rich history and also experienced hurricane damage and flooding in the past. In 1948, work to build a large dike around it began and was completed in 1961. The lake is also a source of fresh water and plays a role in flood control.
The sunshine state is an angler’s dream come true. From the sea to the inland lake, there are rich pickings for every type of angler. Furthermore, the local angling industry is so developed that you are spoilt for choice when it comes to procuring gear or hiring equipment. Experienced guide and boat crew are also available to advise you on the best lures, tackles, or angling spots. The sunshine state is called so because of its climate and possibly, the disposition of its people.
Bass is a freshwater type of fish. This game fish belongs to the perch family and is beloved by anglers. The large-mouth bass feeds on small baitfish, shrimps, and insects. Larger fish prefer deeper water and feed almost entirely on smaller fish. These include the young of larger fish species. Its prey can be as large as 50 percent of the length of the bass’s body.
Bass can reach a length of 29 inches and weigh an unofficial maximum weight of 25 pounds. They live for 16 years and begin to spawn by one year. Breeding female bass tend to be larger than the male counterparts. This has encouraged a catch and release practice among anglers to safeguard future stock.
The popularity of bass with anglers is due, in part, to their fight. These fish will not just stroll into your bait asking for assistance so that they can rest at the bottom of your boat. They have plenty of fight and have been known to become airborne as they try to fight the hook.
In this Lake, you will often find a fast boat skimming over the water and outboard motor churning in hot pursuit of the bass. The waters of this lake teem with these apex feeders. Since they have a wider variety of prey, ranging from shiners, frogs, and crawfish, the bait used to catch them is equally varied. Bass will take both artificial and live bait.
Catching bass requires that you learn the right techniques. Younger bass will often be found in shallow water where they search for prey amongst the weeds. Bass has strong predatory instinct. For this reason, a myriad of techniques can land you the fish you desire. With the abundance of the fish in Lake Okeechobee, you are bound to succeed.
Pitching and flipping is a popular way to land your bass when they are under the cover of weeds or other aquatic vegetation. The two are similar only that in flipping; reeling is not done between casts.
Anyway, there are plenty of places to learn the best techniques and hire experts and angling supplies for the best experience.
Slims Fish Camp
This is locally owned bait and tackles shop in the Lake. Their selection ranges from live and artificial bait, reels, and rods for all your angling needs. That is not all; you will also get hats, postcards, sunscreen, snacks, soda, beer, the lake’s souvenirs, and ice cream, among many other things.
You will be able to purchase a complete tackle line to ensure you get more trophy bass. Also, ask them for hooks, bobbers, and any other fishing supplies.
This camp will ensure that your trip to Lake Okeechobee doesn’t only have to be about bass fishing, but you can also have a nice time with some cold drinks and snacks. You will also be able to buy gifts for your loved ones from this camp.
Torry Island
It is found in Belle Glade, Florida and a portion of western Palm Beach County. It is the only Island on Lake Okeechobee that has inhabitants. You can only access this island via a single lane bridge. Here, you can do activities like shoreline fishing, bilking, viewing wildlife, walking, or even camping.
You will be awed by the rich natural phenomenon, starting with the bridge that you travel in to get to this island. Also, you will be pleased to know that you can find a bait store for all your fishing needs.
Anglers will get direct access to the lake from this Island for bass fishing. Do not forget to bring your camera as you will be able to enjoy watching birds that range from bald eagles, snail kites, roseate spoonbills to the blue-winged teal, among others.
You can also go hiking or biking on the trails or play a round of golf at Sugarcane, the only golf course at the shore. Lay out a picnic blanket and have fun with your family at the covered pavilions offered at the playground. Here, you will have the pleasure of watching people who are angling for big bass.
So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, this lake in Sunshine State will offer you and an unforgettable experience. Away from the water, the shores also have a ton of fun activities.
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