APALACHICOLA RIVER (Jackson, Gadsden, Calhoun, Gulf, Liberty, and Franklin counties): The Apalachicola River runs from Lake Seminole, on the Florida-Georgia border at Chattahoochee, 106 miles south through the Panhandle to the Gulf of Mexico, at the town of Apalachicola. In terms of volume of water discharged, it is Florida's largest river. While there are many areas of good fishing along the Apalachicola River, the best areas are the upper river, which is influenced by discharge from Lake Seminole, and the lower river, which is influenced by Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Bag and size limits follow those for Northwest Florida, which include a 12-inch minimum size limit for largemouth bass (bag limit of five) and an 18-inch minimum size limit for striped bass (bag limit of three).

The lower Apalachicola River consists of the main river channel and the distributaries which form the delta: the St. Marks River, Little St. Marks River, and East River. Shoreline access is available only from the public docks on the waterfront in Apalachicola and at the City Dock (Ten-foot Hole) under the Hwy. 98 Bridge. Public boating access include the City Dock, Gardner Landing on East River, Cash Creek off of Hwy. 65, and Magnolia Bluff on the east end of the Hwy 98 Bridge in East Point. Private launching facilities can be found at several marinas in Apalachicola, in East Point, and Howard's Creek off the Brother's River, and on Searcy Creek (Intracoastal Waterway) in White City. FWC and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service annually stock striped bass and sunshine bass in the lower river.

Striper and sunshine bass fishing in the lower river was slow through the fall, but should pick up through the winter as fish discharged from upstream move throughout the river system. Fish the railroad trestles, the Hwy. 98 Bridge, and near the mouths of the smaller channels and the distributary rivers and creeks on a falling tide. Larger fish will begin migrating upstream by March, but smaller fish will remain in the lower river and should provide excellent light tackle or fly fishing. Largemouth bass fishing should be good along all of the river channels and in Lake Wimico. Saltwater intrusion has impacted a lot of the vegetation in the lake, but the flats and coves along the north shore should still be productive. Dabbling live shrimp along the cutgrass will provide plenty of action for smaller fish. Speckled trout and redfish have also moved into the lower river for the winter. Fish the deeper holes with shrimp or jigs.

The upper Apalachicola River has good shore access from Jim Woodruff Dam to Race Shoal (0.9 miles) on the east bank, and from the dam to Hwy. 90 (0.6 miles) on the west bank. Access above Hwy 90 is on Corps of Engineers (COE) property and includes a fishing catwalk adjacent to the powerhouse at the dam. Boat landings are also located at Chattahoochee, Sneads, Aspalaga (Navigation Mile 98.9), and Ocheesee (NM93.9).

Fish densities in the upper river are often dependent on discharge from Lake Seminole through Jim Woodruff Dam. Water releases from Jim Woodruff Dam during the fall, beginning with Tropical Storm Fay in September, moved sunshine bass and young striped bass into the upper river. If normal rainfall continues through January and February, striped bass and hybrid fishing in the river should be good, with the peak beginning in mid-March. Stripers and hybrids that were discharged into the river during the fall will be roaming the river and feeding voraciously, and will congregate in the current below Jim Woodruff Dam and along the sand and gravel bars downstream. Bottom fish the tailrace with shad or herring. Downstream, both species should school along the deeper sandbars, especially during early morning hours or at dusk. White bass will begin moving up the Apalachicola River to spawn by late February. Fish the sand and gravel bars using grass shrimp, small crayfish, or small jigs. The river bream (redbreast sunfish) population has continued to rebound, and hand-sized fish and larger are becoming abundant again.

FWC will be conducting the annual spring creel survey in the upper river beginning in late February. As always, cooperation and assistance with angling and harvest data collection is greatly appreciated.

For more information contact Riverview Bait & Tackle (850-663-2462) in Chattahoochee, Bay City Marina (850-653-9294) or Scipio Creek Marina (850-653-8030) in Apalachicola, and Fisherman’s Choice (850-670-8808) in Eastpoint.

BEAR LAKE (Santa Rosa County)  Bear Lake is a 107-acre man-made impoundment constructed in 1959, opened to fishing in 1961, and designated as a Fish Management Area. The lake has an average depth of 8 feet with a maximum depth of 23 feet. Deepest areas are located near the dam and along the old streambed. A considerable amount of flooded timber remains, providing fish habitat. This lake has been stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish (shellcracker), black crappie, hybrid striped bass, and channel catfish. Bear Lake is located in northeast Santa Rosa County with in the Blackwater State Forest, approximately 2 miles east of Munson, FL on SR 4. A dual-launch concrete boat ramp is located within the Bear Lake Campground. Ample parking, a handicapped accessible fishing pier, and an informational kiosk are located near this ramp. The Florida Division of Forestry maintains the campground, which includes bath/restroom facilities, along with camping and picnic areas. The Division of Forestry (DOF) charges a $2.00/car fee to all persons entering the Bear Lake Campground area. Two primitive dirt boat landings are accessible from Hurricane Lake Rd. and are not currently subject to this fee. A limited number of small jon-boats and canoes are available to rent from DOF for use on the lake. Information regarding these rentals can be obtained by calling 850-957-6140. Bear Lake is subject to the rules and regulations currently in effect for Fish Management Areas. Please refer to a current copy of Florida Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations. Gasoline boat motors are prohibited from use on Bear Lake; however, use of electric trolling motors is allowed.

For additional information regarding fishing opportunities at Bear Lake contact Blackwater Fisheries Center in Holt, Fl. Phone (850) 957-6175

See also our Fish Management Area Brochure (PDF) and Map (PDF) for Bear Lake on our Fisheries Publications page.

Crappie fishing on Bear Lake is normally productive throughout the quarter. During January and early February when water temperatures are normally in the lower 50’s or colder, crappie can usually be found in waters 6-10 feet deep. Small live crappie minnows and crappie jigs are usually the most productive baits. As water temperatures rise into the upper 50’s and low 60’s crappie will migrate into shallower waters to begin spawning activities. Overall, crappie fishing should be productive throughout the quarter. Crappie populations tend to be cyclical, with some years producing better populations of harvestable fish than others. The numerous brush piles that have been placed throughout the lake often hold schools of crappie as the begin moving into shallow water to spawn.
Largemouth bass fishing normally picks up in late February and early March as water temperatures rise into the upper 50’s and lower 60’s and bass begin moving into shallower waters for pre-spawning and spawning activities. Prior to this time bass can usually be found in 6-10 feet of water. Dark colored plastic worms and Rat-L-Traps fished slowly are usually productive. As water reaches spawning temperatures (62-68 degrees) bass can usually be found in waters 2-6 feet in depth. Plastic worms, crankbaits, and surface lures can all be productive at this time. Periods of several warm days in a row following a cold snap can really turn fish on to a feeding binge and mean some excellent fishing. Cold fronts moving in throughout the quarter will send fish to deeper water and slow feeding activities. Anglers should pay close attention to the weather while planning their trips.

Redear sunfish (shellcracker) fishing usually begins to pick up in mid to late March when water temperatures rise to the mid-to-upper 60’s. Wigglers or crickets on light tackle are usually the best baits.

BLACKWATER AND YELLOW RIVERS: Striped bass in these rivers were stocked by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in an effort to create a trophy fishery, and to reestablish this species in an area from which they had virtually disappeared.

Yellow River - Fair largemouth bass fishing is anticipated for the Yellow River during the months of January through March. Anglers who are determined to venture out into the cooler weather should be rewarded with good bass fishing. Overall, bass and bream fishing should pick up dramatically toward the middle of March. Fishing should be best in the lower, tidal reaches of the river. If you are fishing in the tidal section of the river, try to catch a falling tide for best results. Effective baits to use for bass include plastic worms, and any spinner type plug. In addition to bass, the lower Yellow River harbors other sport fishes such as spotted seatrout and redfish. The winter season is usually a good time to fish for seatrout.

The upper Yellow River should provide a mixed bag of largemouth bass, spotted bass, redear sunfish (shellcracker), bluegill, spotted sunfish, warmouth and shadow bass. Fishing success in the upper river depends largely upon water levels. High water levels make this area difficult to fish, thus fishermen should check the river stage before visiting the upper river. Current river conditions throughout Florida may be accessed on the internet at www.usgs.gov.

Striped bass will also be available during the cooler days of winter and early spring. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission fishery biologists anticipate good fishing for striped bass this year. A good place to fish for stripers in the winter and early spring is the delta area, downstream from Highway 87 to Blackwater Bay. Dawn and dusk are the prime times for striper fishing. In the lower, tidal section of the river, you should fish around points of land extending into the river. Live mullet or menhaden make good baits. Anglers should also try plugs that resemble shad or mullet, such as Bang-O-Lures and Yo-Zuri lures. Live shrimp or twister-tail type jigs are also appropriate baits in this area. Striped bass are available in the Yellow River as a result of long-term stocking efforts by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Access to the lower river is limited to two fish camps near the mouth of the river (Brown’s and Lindsey’s) and the Hwy 87 crossing southeast of Milton. Numerous landings are available along the upper river, including Holt (Guest Lake Landing), Milligan (below Hwy 90), Crestview (highways 85 and 90), and Blackman (Hwy 2).

You can check current conditions online at www.usgs.gov before you go. Good access to the Yellow River system is provided by two fish camps near the mouth of the river (Brown’s and Lindsey’s), south of Milton, and numerous landings along the river, including Holt (Guest Lake Landing), Milligan (below Highway 90), Crestview (highways 85 and 90), Blackman (Highway 2), and the Highway 87 crossing southeast of Milton.

Blackwater River - Fair largemouth bass fishing is anticipated for the lower Blackwater River from January through March. Overall, bass fishing should pick up dramatically along toward the middle of March, with the onset of warmer weather and the beginning of the spawning season. Bream fishing may be a bit slow this time of the year, but should also pick up at the end of March. If you are fishing in the tidal section of the river, try to catch a falling tide for best results. Effective baits for bass include plastic worms and any spinner type plug retrieved fairly slowly. In addition to bass, the lower river also harbors other sport fish such as spotted seatrout and redfish. The winter season is typically a good time to fish for seatrout around the mouth of the river.

Striped bass fishing will also be available during the cooler days of winter and early spring. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) fishery biologists anticipate good fishing for stripers. Appropriate places to fish for these fish from January through March include the lower river, from the Navy Recreation Area down to the I-10 bridge near Milton and Pond Creek from the railroad track to the mouth of the creek. Dawn and dusk are prime times for striper fishing, and anglers should try to catch a falling tide for best success. In the lower, tidal section of the river, you should fish around points of land extending into the river. Live mullet, menhaden, or shad make good baits. Anglers should also try plugs that resemble shad or mullet, such as Bang-O-Lures and Yo-Zuri lures. Live shrimp or twister-tail type jigs are also appropriate. Striped bass are available in the Blackwater River as a result of long-term stocking by the FWC.

Access to the lower river include boat ramps in Milton, at Carpenters Park (north of downtown Milton, just off Hwy. 191), Russell Harbor Park (just north of Hwy. 90, on the east side of the river opposite downtown Milton), Navy Recreation Area, (north of Hwy. 90), north of East Milton and in Bagdad (improved landing east of downtown Bagdad, off Hwy 191).

Anglers who desire beautiful scenery as well as a challenging sport should not ignore the upper section of the Blackwater. The upper section of the Blackwater River provides a mixed bag of sport fishes including redear sunfish (shellcracker), bluegill, spotted sunfish (stumpknockers), warmouth (goggle-eye), shadow bass, largemouth bass, and spotted bass. This section of the river is located in the Blackwater State Forest and is accessible by only small johnboats or canoes. Access to the upper river is limited to 3 boat ramps; Bryant bridge (east of Holt on Bryant Bridge Road), Blackwater State Park (North of Harold off of Deaton Bridge Road), and a new ramp in the north section of the forest called Wilderness Landing (located approximately five miles west of Baker off of Corduroy Road.) Care should be taken navigating this section of river due to excessive tree downfalls and shallow sand bars. Fishing effort should target instream cover, such as logs, snags, and aquatic vegetation. Fishing success depends on water level. High water levels make this section of the river extremely difficult to fish, thus fisherman should check the river stage before visiting the upper river.

You can check current conditions online at www.usgs.gov before you go. Good access to the lower river is provided by boat ramps in Milton (Carpenters Park, north of downtown Milton, just off Highway 191, and also a new ramp just north of Highway 90, on the east side of the river opposite downtown Milton) and in Bagdad (improved landing east of downtown Bagdad, off Highway 191).

Note: Anglers fishing in the Blackwater River should use caution and be aware of submerged objects and downed trees which resulted from Hurricane Ivan last September. Such underwater obstacles may occur in places that were unobstructed last summer.

CHIPOLA RIVER: (Calhoun County) - This river is home of the rare shoal bass. The Chipola is accessible in Marianna off CR 280, SR 20 at Clarksville, and SR 274 west of Altha on Hamilton Spring Rd. This very scenic spring-fed, cold water river stretches about 95 miles starting just north of Marianna and running south through the Dead Lakes and into the Apalachicola River. The Chipola River has fast water shoals provides excellent sunfish (redbreast, redear, and bluegill) fishing in the spring depending on the water level. Boat operators beware of these shallow shoals while running your boat in this river during low water.

Local information on these rivers and their fishes may be obtained from the Commission's Blackwater Fisheries Research and Development Center, 8384 Fish Hatchery Rd., Holt, FL 32564. (850) 957-6177; FAX (850) 957-6176.

Bream fishing (redear, bluegill, redbreast, and spotted sunfish) should be fair to good throughout the winter and early spring. Try fishing deep-water “holes” in midwinter and the shallows around snags and stumps in early March. Recommended baits for bream are beetle spins, worms, and crickets. Largemouth bass fishing will be slow through January but should pick up in mid-February early March. In the winter, try fishing deep areas of the river and backwaters with diving crankbaits worked slowly. Recommended baits for spring bass fishing include artificial lizards, spinnerbaits, and lures and artificials that mimic crayfish. Shoal bass can be caught above Highway 20 in shoal areas in pools just above and below the shoals using crankbaits that mimic shiners and crayfish. Catch-and-release is recommended for this unique fish species. A few black crappie (speckled perch) can be caught in deep holes around snags during the winter and spring with crappie minnows. Fly-fishing for bream and bass should pick up in March in the early morning or late afternoon.

CHOCTAWHATCHEE RIVER: The Choctawhatchee River is Floridas' third largest river system in terms of water volume discharged. Originating in the southern portion of Alabama, the river flows approximately 96 miles from the Alabama state line into Choctawhatchee Bay.

In general, anglers will enjoy the greatest success fishing when water levels are low and the river is within its banks. Nice stringers of bluegill and redear (shellcracker) are caught off the spawning beds in the spring and along river banks lined with dead falls and snags the rest of the year. Crickets and wigglers are good baits for panfishing. Many local anglers swear by the catalpa worm, which can be frozen in clear corn syrup and used throughout the year. Try fishing the mid to upper reaches of the river system for your bigger bream. Largemouth bass are commonly caught on crank baits, spinner baits and artificial worms throughout the river system. Big bass can usually be found around treetops and snags in the mid and upper reaches of the river and along the saw grass flats down by the mouth. Sunshine bass (hybrid striped bass) and striped bass fishing is excellent in the spring and fall throughout the lower end of the river. These fish are stocked annually by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Preferred baits include finger mullet, live shad and shad-like lures. The best fishing is on the out-going tide at dusk or dawn. Areas to target include sandbars and points in the river. It should be noted that harvest and size regulations are different for the sunshine and the striped bass (see current regulations handbook).

Popular boating access points along the Choctawhatchee River include Hwy. 90 (Caryville), Hwy. 20 (Ebro) and along River Road off Hwy. 20 (east of Bruce) there are several boat landings and a bait shop. For access to the lower river take Hwy 331 south of Freeport and go left on S.R. 394 about a mile and look for the signs.

Holmes Creek, a major spring-fed tributary of the Choctawhatchee, offers some excellent fishing. Several bream species can be found in abundance including longear sunfish, spotted sunfish (stumpknockers), redbreast sunfish and warmouth. Big shellcrackers can be caught along the channel side of water lily beds. The spotted bass, a close relative of the largemouth bass, is also native and is an exciting fish to catch. There are several boating access point along Hwy. 279 (Vernon) and Hwy. 79.

Local information on these rivers and their fishes may be obtained from the Commission's Blackwater Fisheries Research and Development Center, 8384 Fish Hatchery Rd., Holt, FL 32564. (850) 957-6177; FAX (850) 957-6176.

Striped bass and sunshine bass fishing should be in full swing. Most striped bass and sunshine bass will move into the lower river and the bay during the winter months. Good fishing spots can be found along deep holes in Pine Log Creek, Black Creek, and Mitchell River. Best success can be had with live bait, either finger mullet or shad. Many anglers watch for fish striking the surface and then cast into the schools of baitfish. If using artificial lures use baits that mimic the size and color of the baitfish present. Artificial baits such as 3-5 inch shad colored Shad Raps and Rat-L-Traps are good bets as well as in-line white spinners. Largemouth bass can be found around submerged trees, creek mouths, and submerged vegetation in slower moving water. Spinnerbaits and plastic worms are the best bet; however, live baits are just as good. Excellent size bluegill and redear sunfish (shellcracker) can be caught in Holmes Creek and on the lower river fishing worms and crickets around brush and submerged vegetation along the shoreline. Crappie fishing should pick up as well. Fish small minnows around brush piles in 10-18 feet of water or use small crappie jigs (1/32 or 1/64 oz) and slowly jig around the brush piles.

DEAD LAKE (Calhoun and Gulf counties):

This strangely beautiful 6,700-acre lake with dark tannic waters is located on the Chipola River near the town of Wewahitchka. The lake is accessible off SR 71 just north of Wewahitchka on State Park Rd. and south off Land Road. There are fish camps located around the lake. Care should be taken when operating a motor boat in this lake because it is filled with cypress snags and stumps. This lake enjoys a wide reputation for its bluegill (bream) and redear (shellcracker) fishing in the spring.

Contacts:
Gate's Fish Camp (6 miles north of Wewahitchka on State Road 71); Route 3, Box 279, Wewahitchka, FL 32465 (850) 639-2768.
Lakeside Lodge (1 mile north of Wewahitchka); P.O. Box 1483, Wewahitchka, FL 32465 (850) 639-2681.
Dead Lakes Sportsman Lodge (east of Wewahitchka at site of old Dead Lakes Dam); 2001 Lake Grove Rd., Wewahitchka, FL 32465 (850) 639-5051.
Dead Lakes State Park and Recreation Area, Highway 71, 1.5 miles north of Wewahitchka (850) 639-2702
Magnolia Lodge, 345 S. Bass Dr., Wewahitchka, FL 32465  (850) 639-6760; Contact Laura Bush

Bream (redear, bluegill, and stumpknocker) fishing should remain fair through the winter and early spring. Black crappie fishing will be best throughout this quarter. Try trolling for “specks” in the main channel of West Arm Creek using crappie minnows and jigs. FWC sportfish population sampling indicated good numbers of “hand paint” bream (bluegill) in the lake. These fish will be found by fishing near willow tree islands associated with stumps and cypress knees. Shellcracker (redear) and bluegill anglers should fish an ultralight rod with a number 10 gold hook on the bottom with a wiggler. Stumpknockers (spotted sunfish) and redbreast sunfish can also be caught near stumps and snags with worms or beetle spins. Largemouth bass fishing will slow down during the winter but should pick up in February. During the winter months try fishing the old river channels and curves and cuts in the lake near snags and stumps. Work your artificial baits slowly, as bass will be less active. Best baits will be artificial worms, spinnerbaits or live shiners.

DEERPOINT LAKE (Bay County):

A 5,000-acre impoundment located 7 miles north of Panama City off US 231 and SR 77 at Southport. Deer Point Lake is fed by natural freshwater streams and supplies more than 760 million gallons of fresh water daily to Panama City and the surrounding areas. The lake can be accessed by taking US 231 north from Panama City (6 miles) to C2321 west (1.5 miles) and turn right on C2311 for (3.5 miles); the ramp is on the left. There are two fish camps located on the Lake, Cherokee Landing (on County Road 2301 at bridge crossing); 10035 County Road 2301, Youngstown, FL 32466 (850) 722-4902, and Tharp's Camp (off Resota Beach Road) 4405 Huckleberry Lane, Panama City, FL 32409 (850) 265-2330. This lake is best known for its shellcracker (redear sunfish) fishing during the spring (April through June) using earthworms as live bait. Fly fishing for shellcracker during the spring can also be productive when fishing early morning, late afternoon, and evening. Bream (bluegill) fishing is also good in the spring using crickets and earthworms. Largemouth bass fishing is best in the spring to early summer and again in the fall using plastic worms and crankbaits. Broken-back-minnow lures are also effective for bass when fished near the shoreline.

During the winter months largemouth bass fishing will slow down but should pickup in mid-February and March. Try fishing for bass in the old river channels of Bear, Cedar, and Bayou George using diving crankbaits or Rat-L-Traps. Spring bass fisherman should fish the shallow weedy areas of the lake and along stumps and snags with artificial worms and lizards. Redear (shellcracker) and bluegill (bream) fishing should be fair during the winter and pick up in the spring. Try fishing the weed-lines and brush throughout the lake. Best baits include beetle spins, worms and crickets. Historically, there have been reports of excellent crappie catches during the winter months on Deer Point, and this trend should remain through the winter into the spring. Try fishing the deep river channels in Bayou George and Cedar Creek with live minnows on a jig head. Catfish can be found in the deep waters by the dam. Best baits include chicken livers and worms.

ESCAMBIA RIVER: This river flows out of south Alabama into the Escambia Bay and ranks as the fourth largest river in Florida. The river has access points at Century, Molino, and U.S. Hwy. 90 crossing, including McDavid ramp located south of Century off US29 on Mystic Spring Road. The Escambia River harbors the richest assemblage of native North American freshwater fish of any Florida river with 85 native freshwater species recorded from the river system. Popular sport fish include shadow bass, warmouth, bluegill, longear sunfish, redear sunfish (shellcracker), spotted sunfish (stumpknocker), spotted bass, largemouth bass, black crappie, chain pickerel, blue catfish, channel catfish, flathead catfish, and sunshine bass (striped bass X white bass hybrid).

Angler's who would like to land a record-sized fish should consider blue catfish and flathead catfish. These large catfishes are not native to our state, although both are native North American fish. In recent years both have found their way into northwestern Florida. Precisely when, or how, they invaded the Escambia River is not known; however, both are now apparently permanent residents. Currently, the state record for blue catfish is 61.5 pounds, from Little Escambia Creek, near Century. The Florida record flathead catfish weighed 43.5 pounds and was caught in the Escambia River. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission annually stocks the river with sunshine bass. Sunshine bass are fast-growing and readily caught and are typically most abundant in the lower reaches of the river.

The river is easily reached by anglers. A set of maps is available from Blackwater Fisheries Research and Development Center, 8384 Fish hatchery Rd., Holt, FL, 32564; (850)-957-6175. The major landings are listed below:

• Jim's Fish Camp - U. S. Highway 90, Pace, FL 32571; (850) 994-7500. Located just off Highway 90, at the mouth of the river in the tidal delta. (Commercial fish camp, with facilities.) Swamp House Marina and Landing - 10421 N. Davis Highway, Pensacola, FL 32514; (850) 478-9906. Located just off Highway 90, at the mouth of the river on the main channel in the tidal delta. (Commercial fish camp with facilities.)
• Floridatown landing - Located on the eastern shore of Escambia Bay, near the mouth of the river in Pace, Florida. (Public landing, no facilities. Condition: Good.)
• Quintette landing - Located on east side of the river, south of Highway 184, Santa Rosa County. (Public landing, no facilities. Condition: Good.) Molino landing - Located on the west side of the river, near Molino, in Escambia County. (Public landing, no facilities. Condition: Good.)
• Cotton Lake landing - Located on west side of the river, at end of Cotton Lake Road, off U. S. Highway 29, Escambia County. (Public landing, no facilities. Condition: Good.)
• McDavid Boat Ramp (Mystic Springs Landing) - Located on west side of river, near McDavid, Florida, off U. S. Highway 29, Escambia County, Florida. (Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission boat ramp, no facilities. Condition: Good.)
• Bluff Springs Landing - Located on west side of river, near Bluff Springs, Florida, off U. S. Highway 29, Escambia County, Florida. (Department of Environmental Protection boat ramp, no facilities. Condition: Poor.)
• Lake Stone - Located 1.5 miles west of Century, Escambia County, Florida, off Highway 4. (Lake managed by FFWCC; camping and picnic areas managed by Escambia County. Condition: Good.)

• Beck’s Lake Fish Camp – 2020 Becks Lake Road, Cantonment, FL 32533.  For more information contact Billy and Lessie Brooks at (850)-968-6404 (www.beckslakefishcamp.com)

Good largemouth bass fishing is expected during the months of January through March in the Escambia River. Anglers who are willing to venture out into cooler weather should be rewarded with good catches of bass. Excellent fishing for small-to-medium size largemouth bass is found in the delta marshes above Hwy 90, between Pensacola and Pace. Bass fishing is best along the winding channels that cut through the marshes. Bass anglers should try to catch a falling tide and fish the undercut banks of these delta channels. Plastic worms and spinner lures are generally effective for bass. In the upper river, crayfish make up a large proportion of the food of bass and consequently make good bait. Crayfish can be collected with a dip net from ditches and sloughs along the river and its floodplain swamp. Overall, bass fishing should pick up dramatically toward the middle of March. Bream fishing may be a bit slow this time of the year, but should also pick up at the end of March. The lower river is also a good place to fish for a mixed bag of saltwater fishes such as spotted seatrout and redfish. The winter season is usually a popular time to fish for seatrout.

Fishing should be good throughout the winter and early spring in the lower, tidal reaches of the river; however, fishing success in the upper river depends largely upon water levels. Normally, high water conditions exist during winter and early spring (January through April). Elevated water levels and flooding make the upper river difficult to fish. Fishermen should check the river stage before visiting the upper river. Current water levels throughout Florida may be found on the internet at www.usgs.gov.

Numerous access points are available along the Escambia River. Three fish camps are located along Hwy 90 between Pensacola and Pace. From these, the lower river and delta marshes may be accessed directly. A boat ramp is also located just below the mouth of the river on the northeast shore of Escambia Bay, just south of Pace. In addition, a popular public fishing pier has been built along Hwy 90 (Simpson River) just west of Pace. Quintette Landing, off Hwy 184, north of Pace, is good point from which to reach choice fishing spots of both the upper and lower river, including backwater areas. Other boat landings along the upper river include Molino, Webb Lake, McDavid, Cotton Lake, Bluff Springs, Kyser Landing, Sandy Landing, Fisher landing (Century) and Oil Plant (North of Jay.)

Anglers should be aware of potential obstacles, such as downed trees and other debris in the river as a result of recent hurricanes and exercise caution while navigating the Escambia River. Passages into some backwaters and sloughs that were formerly open may now be blocked. On the positive side, downed trees and logjams created by the hurricanes can also provide prime habitat and shelter for largemouth bass and bream, and anglers may want to try their luck in areas where these occur.

Current water levels of streams throughout Florida may be found on the internet at www.usgs.gov. Some newspapers also publish river stages.

Numerous access points are available to fishermen along Escambia River. Three landings are located along Highway 90 between Pensacola and Pace. From these, the lower river and delta marshes may be easily reached. A boat ramp is also located just below the mouth of the river, on the northeast shore of Escambia Bay in Floridatown, just south of Pace. In addition, a popular fishing pier has been installed along Highway 90 just west of Pace. Quintette Landing, off Highway184, north of Pace, is also a good point from which to reach choice fishing spots of both the upper and lower river, including backwater and swamp areas. Other landings scattered along the upper river include Molino, Webb Lake, McDavid, Cotton Lake, Bluff Springs, Kyser Landing, Sandy Landing, Century (Fischer Landing) and Jay.

Anglers needing advice regarding fishing spots in the northwestern panhandle or information on river conditions are encouraged to call Blackwater Fisheries Research and Development Center, near Holt, Florida. (850) 957-6175, or

For more information contact Billy and Lessie Brooks at (850)-968-6404 (www.beckslakefishcamp.com)

HURRICANE LAKE (Okaloosa County):

Hurricane Lake is a 318-acre man-made impoundment constructed in 1971, opened to fishing in 1973, and is designated as a Fish Management Area. The lake has an average depth of 7 feet and a maximum depth of 25 feet with the deepest areas located near the dam and along the old streambed. A considerable amount of flooded timber remains, providing fish habitat. The lake has been stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish (shellcracker), and channel catfish. Hurricane Lake is located in northwest Okaloosa County within the Blackwater State Forest approximately 12 miles northwest of Baker, FL. Concrete boat ramps with courtesy docks are located in both the north and south campgrounds. The south campground is accessible from Kennedy Bridge Road off Beaver Creek Road north of SR 4. This campground contains primitive (no electric or water hookups) camping sites maintained by the Division of Forestry (DOF). Restroom and picnic facilities are available. Several earthen fishing fingers are located in this area for use by bank fishermen. Construction of a fishing pier in the south campground is planned for the near future. An informational kiosk is located adjacent to the boat ramp. The north campground is accessible from Hurricane Lake North Campground Road off Beaver Creek Road north of Kennedy Bridge Road. A handicapped accessible fishing pier and an informational kiosk are located adjacent to the boat ramp. This campground has campsites with electrical and water hookups which are maintained by DOF. Bait, supplies, and other conveniences are available in nearby Baker, Blackmon, and Munson. Hurricane Lake is subject to the rules and regulations currently in effect for Fish Management Areas. Please refer to a current copy of Florida Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations. Gasoline boat motors are prohibited from use on Hurricane Lake; however, use of electric trolling motors is allowed.

SPECIAL REGULATION:  All black bass less than 18 inches in total length must be released immediately.

For additional information regarding fishing opportunities at Hurricane Lake contact Blackwater Fisheries Center in Holt, Fl.  Phone: (850) 957-6175. 

See also our Fish Management Area Brochure (PDF) and Map (PDF) for Hurricane Lake on our Fisheries Publications page.

Largemouth bass fishing normally picks up in late February and early March as water temperatures rise into the upper 50’s and lower 60’s and bass begin moving into shallower waters for pre-spawning and spawning activities. Prior to this time bass can usually be found in 6-10 feet of water. Dark colored plastic worms and Rat-L-Traps fished slowly are usually productive. As water reaches spawning temperatures (62-68 degrees) bass can usually be found in waters 2-6 feet in depth. Clumps of maidencane grass and “flats” areas are habitats heavily utilized by bass during this period. Plastic worms, crankbaits, and surface lures can all be productive at this time. Periods of several warm days in a row following a cold snap can really turn fish on to a feeding binge and result in some excellent fishing. Cold fronts moving in throughout the quarter will send fish back to deeper water and slow feeding activities. Anglers should pay close attention to the weather while planning their trips.

Redear sunfish (shellcracker) fishing usually begins to pick up in mid to late March when water temperatures rise to the mid-to-upper 60’s. Wigglers or crickets on light tackle are usually the best baits.

LAKE JACKSON (Leon County):

Located just north of Tallahassee, this 4,000-acre lake has been nationally known for its largemouth bass fishery. The best bass fishing time of year is the spring through early summer (February through May). This lake has a high diversity of aquatic vegetation, but hydrilla, eelgrass, and maidencane are the best habitats to fish for bass in this lake. This lake is shallow with an average depth of about 7 feet and a maximum depth of 30 feet. After May, fishing at night becomes the norm to get away from the hot weather conditions. It is a natural sink-hole lake that periodically goes dry (about every 25 years). For an excellent article about the history of the lake and restoration efforts click here (this is an offsite link, so you may want to bookmark this page first).  There are 5 public boat ramps around the lake and one fish camp. For additional information you may contact Red and Sam's Fish Camp at 850-562-3083.

SPECIAL REGULATION: All black bass less than 18 inches in total length must be released immediately.

Lake Jackson continues to be naturally drawn down due to drought, though it has risen a few feet since the heavy rain from recent tropical storms. Access is still somewhat limited, but anglers should be able to launch from the landing at Hwy 27 and Millers Landing. Having a truck with 4WD probably wouldn’t hurt. Fishing for bream and shellcracker should remain good this quarter with wigglers and crickets. Bass fishing will pick up significantly as the spawn gets underway during this quarter. Try areas with deeper underwater vegetation for best results for black crappie.

Remember to be considerate of other anglers and avoid power-loading when taking your boat out of the water. Power-loading will cause the depositing of sand at the landing and make launching a boat nearly impossible over time. Try backing your trailer into the water a little deeper than usual and driving your boat on your trailer at a slow/moderate speed.

KARICK LAKE (Okaloosa County)  Karick Lake is a 65-acre man-made impoundment constructed in 1965, opened to fishing in 1966, and is designated as a Fish Management Area. The lake has an average depth of 7 feet with a maximum depth of 18 feet, with the deepest areas located near the dam and along the old streambed. A considerable amount of flooded timber remains, providing fish habitat. The lake has been stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish (shellcracker), and channel catfish. Karick Lake is located in northwestern Okaloosa County off County Road 189 approximately 8 miles north of Baker, FL. Concrete boat ramps with courtesy docks are located in both the north and south campgrounds. A handicapped accessible fishing pier is located adjacent to the boat ramp in the north campground. Both campgrounds are accessible from CR 189. Informational kiosks are located adjacent to each boat ramp. The south campground contains primitive campsites (no electrical or water hookups) and picnic areas. The north campground has picnic grounds and campsites are available with both electric and water hookups. Both campgrounds have restroom/bath facilities and are maintained by the Division of Forestry. Bait, supplies, and other conveniences are available in nearby Baker and Blackmon, FL. Karick Lake is subject to the rules and regulations currently in effect for Fish Management Areas. Please refer to a current copy of Florida Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations. Gasoline boat motors are prohibited from use on Karick Lake; however, use of electric trolling motors is allowed.

SPECIAL REGULATION: Effective July 1, 2006 a 12-inch minimum size limit harvest regulation for largemouth bass will replace the current catch-and-release regulation. The daily bag limit under the 12-inch minimum size limit will be 5 bass per angler per day, only one of which may be 22-inches in total length or larger. All bass less than 12-inches in total length must be released immediately.

For additional information regarding fishing opportunities at Karick Lake contact Blackwater Fisheries Center in Holt, Fl. Phone (850) 957-6175

See also our Fish Management Area Brochure (PDF) and Map (PDF) for Karick Lake on our Fisheries Publications page.

Largemouth bass fishing normally picks up in late February and early March as water temperatures rise into the upper 50’s and lower 60’s and bass begin moving into shallower waters for pre-spawning and spawning activities. Prior to this time bass can usually be found in 6-10 feet of water. Dark colored plastic worms and Rat-L-Traps fished slowly are usually productive. As water reaches spawning temperatures (62-68 degrees) bass can usually be found in waters 2-6 feet in depth. Plastic worms, crankbaits, and surface lures can all be productive at this time. Periods of several warm days in a row following a cold snap can really turn fish on to a feeding binge and result in some excellent fishing. Cold fronts moving in throughout the quarter will send fish to deeper water and slow feeding activities. Anglers should pay close attention to the weather while planning their trips.

Redear sunfish (shellcracker) fishing usually begins to pick up in mid to late March when water temperatures rise to the mid-to-upper 60’s. Wigglers or crickets on light tackle are usually the best baits.

MERRITT'S MILL POND: This is a unique 202-acre spring-fed impoundment with crystal clear waters near the city limits of Marianna. The lake is accessible off US 90 in Marianna by taking SR 71 north 1.1 miles to SR 164 for 1.8 miles and then south on Hunter Fish Camp Rd. to the ramp. Merritt's Mill Pond is renowned for its trophy redear (shellcracker) fishing. The pond currently holds the State record for redear at 4.86 pounds and until recently held the world record fish. Fishing far from your boat, on cloudy or rainy days or when there is a ripple on the water may produce the best results when fishing in this clear water pond. Due to an extended drawdown in 1994-1996 for dam repairs, bluegill and redear populations suffered, however, largemouth bass populations capitalized on the abundance of food in the pond.

SPECIAL REGULATION:  Redear sunfish (shellcracker) daily bag limit: 10.
Redear sunfish less than 10 inches in total length must be released immediately.

Contact - Arrowhead Campground; 4820 U.S. Highway 90 East, Marianna, FL 32446 (850) 482-5583

Bream fishing for all species remains good. Crickets or live worms fished around the eel grass beds will be the best bet. Remember that the redear sunfish minimum length limit is now 10 inches with a bag limit of 10 fish in the Mill Pond. Bass fishing will improve noticeably as the fish move shallow to spawn. Target the eel grass beds with plastic worms or crankbaits.

OCHEESEE POND: This 2,225-acre lake is located south of U.S. Hwy. 90 at Grand Ridge and Sneads. Ocheesee has dark tannic water with approximately 90% of its surface area covered by cypress trees. There is access to the lake by taking SR 69 south of Grand Ridge for 1.0 mile then left on CR 69A for 5.9 miles and travel left on Shady Grove Rd. to the ramp.

Local information contact the Panama City, Fisheries Biologist at 850/265-3677.

Anglers should always be careful navigating in the pond due to the many exposed stumps and snags. The lake is making a come-back from the drought of years past. FWC sportfish population sampling confirmed successful spawns of bluegill and largemouth bass the past three years indicating the pond’s sportfish population is returning. Aquatic vegetation has also begun to grow again in the lake, providing cover for forage fish. Try fishing for bluegill around stumps and snags in 3 to 5 feet or deep holes in the main section of the lake. Best baits include grass shrimp, crickets, wigglers, or various colors of 1/8 to 1/16 oz beetle spins. Redear sunfish (shellcracker) can also be found in these areas using worms. Largemouth bass fishing will slow down during the winter, but should pickup in February and into spring. Try fishing early morning and late afternoon along weedlines and cypress trees. Best baits include spinnerbaits, crankbaits, dark plastic worms or live shiners.

OCHLOCKONEE RIVER:

Lower Ochlockonee River - Located just west and southwest of Tallahassee, this river is shallow, narrow and scenic over most of its stretch to the gulf coast. It is noted for its redbreast sunfish and black crappie fisheries. The best fishing times occur in spring and summer when water levels are low. It is a good river to canoe and fish with abundant snags, deep water holes and sand bars. There are approximately 6 public boat ramps and numerous primitive camping sites on its stretch.

The river level remains good, still benefitting from recent tropical storm rains. Redbreast sunfish and bluegill can be targeted with red wigglers and crickets, or small jigs and beetle spins (1/8 to 1/16 oz) for the lure-minded. Speck fishing remains fine in the lower river; using minnows or jigs for the best chance for some “slabs” for the cooler.

For additional information, you may contact Ed and Bernice's Fish Camp at 850-379-8122.

Upper Ochlockonee River - Located west and north of Tallahassee, the Florida portion of this river is noted for its redbreast sunfish fishery in periods of low water and catfish during high water events. It is a good river to canoe and fish with abundant snags and deep water holes. There are 3 public boat ramps on the Florida portion of this river.

The river level remains good, still benefitting from recent tropical storm rains. Redbreast sunfish and bluegill can be targeted with red wigglers and crickets, or small jigs and beetle spins (1/8 to 1/16 oz) for the lure-minded. Speck fishing remains fine in the lower river; using minnows or jigs for the best chance for some “slabs” for the cooler.

LAKE SEMINOLE (Jackson and Gadsden counties): Lake Seminole is a 37,500-acre reservoir located at the juncture of the Florida, Georgia, and Alabama state lines. It was formed by closure of Jim Woodruff Dam at the confluence of the Chattahoochee and Flint rivers near the town of Chattahoochee, FL. The lake and its facilities are maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and is used for navigation, hydroelectric production, and recreation. Much of the reservoir is flooded timber, and since the early 1990's hydrilla has expanded to nearly 70% coverage of the lake area. Approximately 80% of Lake Seminole is located in Georgia, although by agreement licensed Florida anglers can fish south and west of an imaginary line from Chattahoochee Park, on the east bank, through Navigation Mile Marker 3.0 on the Flint River, south of Lake Seminole WMA, to Navigation Mile Marker 6.4 on the Chattahoochee River. East of Hwy. 271 (River Road), size and bag limits on Lake Seminole follow those established by Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and include: 10 black bass (12-inch minimum size); an aggregate of 15 striped bass, white bass, and sunshine bass (only two over 22 inches); 30 black and/or white crappie; 50 panfish (not including crappie); and a possession limit of 50 fish total, regardless of species. Lake Seminole is annually stocked with striped bass and sunshine bass (striped bass x white bass hybrids) by Florida, Georgia, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

As water temperatures continue to climb, good fishing opportunities will begin to decline.  Larger striped bass and sunshine bass (hybrid striped bass) will seek refuge in springs (which are closed to fishing May 1 to November 1) and cool water creeks to survive the hot summer.  Smaller hybrids and stripers will school in the lower lake, especially near the dam where there is some water flow.  Watch for birds working schools of shad and cast spoons or diving plugs to game fish feeding beneath the baitfish, or work poppers and surface plugs near the bait.  If you are on the water early or late, fish the flats for largemouth bass.  The Cornfield and the Man-Made-Island may be good areas to try on the Chattahoochee side, or try the flats near Fishpond Drain and Spring Creek on the Flint side.  Many largemouth bass will be moving to deeper water during the summer, so fish vertically along the channels with spoons, jigs, or worms.  Work the lure up and down along the edge, especially where there is a wall of hydrilla right up to the channel.  Bream (bluegill) and shellcracker will continue to bed sporadically through the summer, particularly around the full moon each month.  However, look for panfish to also move toward deeper water as the summer progresses.  Beat the summertime heat by fly-fishing for bream along deep banks after dark using glow bugs.  The best action will be around the new moon or on overcast nights.

Low water levels through the spring and summer of 2008 allowed hydrilla to remain in high density in many areas of the reservoir. In the backwater areas and along the channels, fish for bass vertically along the edges of the vegetation using drop-shot rigs, jigs or spoons, or fish crankbaits parallel to the vegetation edge and along the points. However, on warmer afternoons, don’t overlook the flats and the coves that face to the south. These coves get more sunlight through the day and will tend to warm earlier in the day, increasing fish activity. Fish the humps in deep water and old creek channels with jigs when water temperatures get low. Crappie fishing began to pick up early and should continue to improve through February and March as fish move from the channels into the shallows. Fish the channel and submerged timber in the Fort Scott (Flint River) and the Cornfield or Fairchild Park (Chattahoochee River) areas. Striper and hybrid fishing in the lower lake should be good through January and February, and then into March. Water releases from upstream reservoirs during the fall should have discharged hybrids into Lake Seminole. Both species will be schooling on shad and skipjack herring during the winter months. Trolling plugs or casting spoons will be most effective. Watch for diving birds to locate schooling fish. White bass will begin concentrating near gravel and sand bars, and should begin spawning by late February. Consult Georgia’s regulations for bag and size limits on Lake Seminole, except in the areas west of Highway 271, where Florida’s statewide regulations apply.

Length and bag limits for stripers, hybrids, and white bass in Lake Seminole follow those established by Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR): an aggregate of 15 fish, of which no more than two may be 22 inches or longer.

For more information contact Seminole Lodge (850-593-6886) or Wingate’s Lunker Lodge (229-246-0658), or log on to Georgia DNR (www.gofishgeorgia.com) or Georgia Outdoor News (www.gon.com/).

The black crappie angling will remain good during this quarter, thanks to the low temperatures. Target the creek mouths or deeper areas to find them; minnows and jigs remain the baits of choice. Fishing for bass will crank into high gear as the spawn gets underway. Plastic worms, topwaters, and shallow-running minnow imitations all work well during this period. With continued cooler temperatures, striped bass fishing should remain good in the deeper waters of the reservoir, particularly near the dam. Anything that a hungry striper might mistake for a shad, such as crankbaits and spoons, should find fish from the Ocklawaha Creek area to the dam.

LAKE VICTOR (Holmes County):

Lake Victor is a 130-acre artificial impoundment constructed in 1966 and opened to fishing in 1968. It has an average depth of 8 feet and a maximum depth of 23 feet. Deepest areas are near the dam and along the old stream bed. A considerable amount of timber remains, providing fish habitat and cover. The lake has been previously stocked with sport fish include largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish (shellcrackers), and channel catfish. The lake also supports a fairly good population of black crappie which appear to peak every 5 to 7-years. The lake is located in north Holmes County, south of S.R. 2, approximately one mile west of the New Hope community. It is within easy commuting distance from Chipley, Bonifay, DeFuniak Springs, and south Alabama. There is a concrete boat ramp with ample parking located near the dam on the northeast side of the lake. Riddle Bait and Tackle are situated next to this ramp and handles fishing supplies and other conveniences.

For current fishing conditions they may be contacted at (850) 956-2444 or e-mail: riddlebait@digitalexp.com. There are no public upland recreational facilities or boat rentals available. Dancy Landing, a privately operated camping area with an unimproved (oyster shell) boat ramp is located on the southeast side of the lake. For available camp sites or fishing conditions they may be reached at (850) 956-4526.

Crappie fishing on Lake Victor can be productive throughout the quarter. During January and early February when water temperatures are normally in the lower 50’s or colder, crappie can usually be found in waters 6-10 feet deep. Small live crappie minnows and crappie jigs are usually productive, especially in the deeper water located down near the dam. As water temperatures rise into the upper 50’s and low 60’s crappie will migrate into shallower waters and coves to begin spawning activities. Overall, crappie fishing should be productive throughout the quarter.

Largemouth bass fishing normally picks up in late February and early March as water temperatures rise into the upper 50’s and lower 60’s and bass begin moving into shallower waters for pre-spawning and spawning activities. Prior to this time bass can usually be found in 6-10 feet of water. Dark colored plastic worms and Rat-L-Traps fished slowly are usually productive. As water reaches spawning temperatures (62-68 degrees) bass can usually be found in waters 2-6 feet in depth. Plastic worms, crankbaits, and surface lures can all be productive at this time. Periods of several warm days in a row following a cold snap can really turn fish on to a feeding binge and result in some excellent fishing. Cold fronts moving in throughout the quarter will send fish to deeper water and slow feeding activities. Anglers should pay close attention to the weather while planning their trips.

Redear sunfish (shellcracker) fishing usually begins to pick up in mid to late March when water temperatures rise to the mid-to-upper 60’s. Wigglers or crickets on light tackle are usually the best baits.

See also our Fish Management Area Brochure (PDF) and Map (PDF) for Lake Victor on our Fisheries Publications page.

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