As of November 2, 2024, Lake Okeechobee is offering some exciting fishing opportunities, making it a great time to get out on the water. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day.

The water level at Lake Okeechobee is currently around 15 feet, slightly fluctuating due to recent rains and the approaching winter season. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s, ideal for fishing. Sunrise today is at around 7:15 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:45 PM, with these early morning and late afternoon to early evening periods being crucial for catching bass and bream.

Fishing is picking up significantly, especially for largemouth bass, peacock bass, and panfish. Bass are staging for their winter spawn, concentrating along the outside fringes of inshore spawning grounds. Underwater hydrilla lines, the outermost points of cattails and bulrush, and areas around the mouth of the Kissimmee River and King’s Bar are hot spots.

Yesterday saw a good number of bass caught, with some larger females showing up in the reeds and under mats. Anglers reported catching around 20 bass in a few hours, with some fish weighing up to 8 pounds. Panfish action has also been very good, particularly in the moving water at John Stretch Park in South Bay and the Rim Canal near the Moore Haven Lock, where worms, crickets, and minnows were effective.

For bass, lures such as worms, swim baits, shallow crank baits, top water lures, frogs, and the flipping/pitching technique with creature-style lures like crawdads are working well. Color patterns that are catching bass include Junebug, Redbug, White, Okeechobee Craw, Alabama Craw, Tilapia, and black/blue. Live bait, especially live shiners and crickets, is also highly effective.

Some of the best places to fish right now include Observation Shoal, where flipping and pitching the outside grass and Buggy Whips have been productive. Harney Pond Canal, particularly the North shore area including Dyess Ditch and Harney Pond, is another prime spot. King’s Bar and Fisheating Bay are also seeing concentrations of bass along the outermost points of cattails and bulrush.

With the right gear and knowledge of these hot spots, you're set for a productive and fun-filled day on Lake Okeechobee. Just remember to be careful of floating debris and navigate safely. Enjoy your time on the water