 Lake Okeechobee is the home to large populations of
Crappie (Speck), Bluegill,
and Shellcrackers that go right a long with the world famous largemouth bass. While all
of the these species of fish have their peak months, our guides seem to know where to get the
big ones year around. Expect to catch a bunch! Our Bluegill and Crappie trips
usually result in limits each day! If your not a regular Bluegill or Crappie fisherman, don't
discount these little guys. They fight better than most other
freshwater species. Bluegill, Shellcrackers and Crappie
fishing, not only fun to catch
but these little guys are second to none in the frying pan.
The Florida Crappie, speckled perch or "speck"
as they are called throughout  the
South is the most sought after panfish on Lake Okeechobee. Although the Florida
crappie can be caught throughout the spring, summer and early fall, they really
are at their best from late fall to early spring on Lake Okeechobee.
 Bluegill
during the spawn are also at full coloration - dark lateral bars down their
sides and a deep red chest. The male bluegill after establishing their nesting
area, which are usually the same spawning sites year after year, will become very
aggressive. They will in fact strike at anything that intrudes into their
nesting territory. Bluegill spawning will occur went
the lake water starts to warm into the mid 70's. That could be as early as March
and last until May. Bluegill gather in large colonies during the spawn. There are
dozens of nests side by side in an area of 50 - 75 square feet. Bluegill
spawning activities also cycle around the full moon periods. The 5-day period
before and after the full moon is a great time to catch your limit.
Live Bait & Artificial trips
Worms and crickets are the preferred live bait. Crickets
top the list as the best live bait for bluegill. Worms and crickets can be
purchased at the local marina or bait shops. Jigs of different sizes and
colors are crucial at different times of the years. Your guide will
have everything you will need, from the poles to the tackle.
Your bluegill or crappie fishing
trip will be done in the comfort and safety of our fully rigged bass
boat. All boats have an ice cooler for food and soft drinks, livewells
and plenty of storage which will make your day an enjoyment. All guide boats are
also equipped with cellular phones U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD's.
State BAG LIMITS:
Bag limit for crappie
(speckled perch) is 25 per person per day. Possession limit is two days bag
limit per each licensed angler. Bluegill and Shellcrackers limit is 50 per
person per day.
Other Species Available
 Its
not uncommon to see or catch the Florida Gar and the hard fighting
Bowfin. On occasion we will guide exclusively for these species. If you
have interest don't hesitate to ask about them.
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