How to Bass Fish in Florida

Florida offers some of the best bass fishing opportunities in the United States. With its many lakes that feature trophy-size bass of 15 pounds and more--Kissimmee, Manatee and Toho, for example-- there are numerous opportunities for fishermen of every skill level.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Rod, reel, and fishing line Assortment of lures, including spinner baits, plugs, plastic lures and terminal tackle
Rod, reel, and fishing line
Assortment of lures, including spinner baits, plugs, plastic lures and terminal tackle

Step 1

Consult with guides and tackle shops near your fishing spot to determine current conditions of the lake. Many conditions can affect the fishing in any body of water, but in Florida there are also tropical storms and hurricanes that can factor in.

Step 2

Determine the type of fishing access you want. Many people are perfectly happy fishing from a bank or dock, while others may own a boat and require access from a landing or marina. Some fishermen prefer to fish with an experienced guide for their first trip to get a better idea of where and how to fish a particular lake.

Step 3

Consider the time of day as well as the season when fishing for bass in Florida. Bass spawn in the spring and may react much differently to baits than in the summer or fall. In winter months, bass tend to move into deeper waters and suspend to conserve energy. In the spring and early summer, bass may be found up close to banks and structures as they search for food. Bass also tend to feed early and late in the day, so focus on those times if you can.

Step 4

Acquire the proper permits and license for fishing in Florida. If you're from out of state, you'll need a non-resident permit. Local fishing and bait shops usually will be able to provide the appropriate license or permits.

Step 5

Learn about the kinds of fishing cover and weeds you'll be dealing with. Florida has long growing seasons, so many waters abound with aquatic plant life, such as hydrilla and pepper grass. Select appropriate lures when fishing plant-heavy areas.

Tips & Warnings

Reserve your guide service as far in advance as you can. Florida is such a popular fishing location that you can even do it while vacationing at Disney World.

Reserve your guide service as far in advance as you can.

Florida is such a popular fishing location that you can even do it while vacationing at Disney World.

Always keep an eye out for alligators when fishing in Florida.

Article Written By Tara Dooley

Tara Dooley has written for various websites since 2008. She has worked as an accountant, after-school director and retail manager in various locations. Dooley holds a Bachelor of Science in business management and finance.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...