The North Florida Fishing Calendar: What to Catch Every Month of the Year

June 12, 2026 / Max / Leave a comment

North Florida is a unique place for anglers. Few areas in the country offer the opportunity to chase trophy largemouth bass in a spring-fed river, sight cast redfish on a shallow grass flat, catch speckled trout in the Gulf, and fill a cooler with bluegill or catfish — all in the same weekend.

The key to consistent success is understanding how fish respond to changing water temperatures, weather patterns, tides, and seasonal movements.

This guide breaks down the best species to target throughout the year, where to find them, and the tactics that work.

January: Cold Water Tactics & Big Fish

January fishing in North Florida can be challenging, but it is also a great time to catch some of the biggest fish of the year. Cold fronts push fish into predictable areas, and slower presentations usually produce.

Largemouth Bass

Best Locations:

Suwannee River
Santa Fe River
Rodman Reservoir
Lake George

During winter, bass become less aggressive but still need to feed. They often move toward deeper holes, channels, and areas where warmer water enters the system.

Best Tactics:

Slowly dragged Texas-rigged worms
Jigs
Suspending jerkbaits
Slow-rolled spinnerbaits

Focus on:

Deep bends
Creek mouths
Spring-fed areas
Brush piles

A sunny afternoon after a cold night can create some of the best shallow-water opportunities.

Catfish

Winter is one of the best times to target big river catfish.

Best Locations:

Suwannee River
Santa Fe River
St. Johns River

Best Tactics:

Anchor near deep holes and use:

Cut mullet
Shad
Live bream
Chicken liver

The key is patience. Big cats often feed in short windows.

February: Pre-Spawn Begins

February marks the beginning of one of the most exciting times of year. Bass start preparing for the spawn, and everything starts waking up.

Largemouth Bass

Best Locations:

Orange Lake
Lake Seminole
Suwannee River

Best Tactics:

Bass are moving from deeper water toward spawning areas.

Try:

Lipless crankbaits
Spinnerbaits
Flukes
Creature baits

Look for:

Hard bottom
Vegetation edges
Protected coves

Brim / Shellcracker

Shellcracker begin staging before the spawn.

Best Locations:

Santa Fe River
Ichetucknee River
Suwannee River

Best Tactics:

Use:

Red worms
Crickets
Small jigs

Fish around:

Sandy bottoms
Fallen trees
Shallow vegetation

March – April: The Spawn Explosion

Spring is arguably the best fishing season in North Florida.

Everything is feeding.

Bass Spawn

Best Locations:

Rodman Reservoir
Lake Santa Fe
Suwannee River

Best Tactics:

When fish are shallow:

Sight fish with soft plastics
Use Senkos
Texas-rigged creature baits

After spawning:
Bass recover near:

Drop-offs
Grass lines
Current breaks

This is when topwater fishing starts becoming productive.

Bluegill & Shellcracker

Spring produces some of the biggest panfish of the year.

Best Locations:

Suwannee River
Santa Fe River
Ichetucknee

Best Tactics:

Fish shallow beds using:

Crickets
Worms
Beetle spins

This is one of the best fisheries for getting kids hooked on fishing.

May: Saltwater Season Begins

As water temperatures climb, the Gulf comes alive.

Redfish

Best Locations:

Cedar Key
Steinhatchee
Suwannee River mouth

Redfish begin moving onto flats and feeding aggressively.

Best Tactics:

Look for:

Oyster bars
Grass flats
Creek mouths

Use:

Live shrimp
Cut mullet
Weedless spoons
Paddle tails

Incoming tides are often best.

Speckled Trout

Best Locations:

Keaton Beach
Cedar Key
St. Marks

Best Tactics:

Early mornings:

Topwater plugs

Throughout the day:

Soft plastics
Popping cork rigs

Trout love:

Moving water
Clean grass flats
Bait schools

June – July: Summer Fishing & Scallop Season

Summer brings heat, but it also brings some incredible opportunities.

Bay Scallops

Best Locations:

Steinhatchee
Homosassa
Crystal River

Scalloping is one of the most unique North Florida traditions.

Best Tactics:

Sight fishing is the name of the game.

Look for:

Clear water
Seagrass beds
4-8 feet depth

Bring:

Mask
Snorkel
Dive flag
Mesh bag

Flounder

Best Locations:

Cedar Key
Steinhatchee
Suwannee River mouth

Flounder are ambush predators.

Best Tactics:

Fish:

Sandy holes
Oyster edges
Creek mouths

Use:

Mud minnows
Shrimp
Paddle tails

Slow presentations work best.

Snook

North Florida snook are a unique opportunity.

Best Locations:

Crystal River
Suwannee River mouth

Best Tactics:

Target:

Warm water outflows
Bridges
Mangroves

Use:

Live shrimp
Small mullet
Artificial shrimp

August – September: Late Summer Strategy

Heat changes everything.

Fish early and late.

Bass

Best Locations:

Rivers
Springs
Deep lakes

Best Tactics:

Early morning:

Frogs
Topwater

Daytime:

Deep worms
Carolina rigs

Redfish

Best Locations:

Marsh edges
Tidal creeks

Best Tactics:

During extreme heat:

Fish moving water
Fish early tides

October – November: Fall Feeding Season

Fall is one of the best times to fish North Florida.

Cooler temperatures trigger aggressive feeding.

Trout

Best Locations:

Cedar Key
Keaton Beach
St. Marks

Best Tactics:

Use:

Topwaters
Twitch baits
Soft plastics

Fall trout often feed heavily before winter.

Redfish

Best Locations:

Big Bend flats
Oyster bars
Marsh drains

Best Tactics:

Use:

Live mullet
Spoons
Topwater

This is one of the best times for sight casting.

December: Trophy Season Returns

The cycle starts over.

Cold water brings big opportunities.

Bass

Target:

Deep holes
Slow current
Warm water

Best baits:

Jigs
Worms
Suspending jerkbaits

Catfish

Winter remains prime time.

Look for:

Deep bends
Current seams
River holes

Final Thoughts

North Florida is not a seasonal fishing destination — it is a year-round fishery.

The best anglers adapt.

They understand:

When fish move
Why they move
Where they go
What presentation works

Whether you are chasing bass on the Suwannee, trout on the Big Bend flats, redfish in the marsh, or introducing a kid to brim fishing, there is always something biting.

Timber & Marsh — connecting North Florida hunters, anglers, and outdoorsmen.

Top 5 Big Bend Fishing Towns Every Angler Should Visit

June 10, 2026 / Max / Leave a comment

Florida’s Big Bend is one of the last places where “Old Florida” still exists. Stretching from Cedar Key to Apalachicola, this rugged coastline is defined by vast seagrass flats, winding tidal creeks, hidden oyster bars, and small fishing villages that still make their living from the water.

Whether you’re chasing trophy redfish, filling a cooler with speckled trout, or planning a family scalloping trip, these five towns should be on every angler’s bucket list.

1. Steinhatchee

Steinhatchee may be the most famous fishing town in the Big Bend. Originally built around commercial fishing and sponge harvesting, the town remains one of Florida’s premier destinations for inshore anglers and scallopers. The community sits along the Steinhatchee River and provides direct access to miles of productive grass flats and nearshore structure. Recent tourism and wildlife resources continue to highlight Steinhatchee’s roots as a historic fishing village and one of Florida’s premier angling destinations.

What to Catch

Speckled trout
Redfish
Flounder
Cobia
Grouper
Snapper
Tarpon (seasonal)
Bay scallops (summer)

Successful Tactics

The shallow grass flats are legendary for trout and redfish. Drift fishing with popping corks and live shrimp works year-round. During summer, anglers target trout early before moving offshore for grouper and snapper. Winter often concentrates fish in creeks and rivers during cold fronts.

Local Attractions

Steinhatchee Falls
Steinhatchee River Paddling Trail
Fiddler Crab Festival
Scalloping season

Restaurants

Roy’s Restaurant
Kathi’s Krab Shack
Fiddler’s Restaurant
McDavid’s Cafe

Places to Stay

Steinhatchee Landing Resort
Steinhatchee River Inn & Marina

Charter Captains

Good Time Charters
Chase-N-Fish Charters
Crystal Sea Charters

Boat Ramps

Sea Hag Marina Ramp
Jena Boat Ramp
Steinhatchee Public Boat Ramp

2. Cedar Key

Cedar Key is one of the most unique towns on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Once an important shipping port, it evolved into a commercial fishing and clam-farming community after net fishing regulations changed in the 1990s. Today it remains known for fresh seafood, spectacular sunsets, and world-class shallow-water fishing.

What to Catch

Redfish
Speckled trout
Flounder
Sheepshead
Black drum
Spanish mackerel

Successful Tactics

Kayak anglers thrive around the islands and oyster bars. Low-tide redfish fishing around creek mouths and oyster points is particularly productive. Live shrimp and paddle-tail plastics are local favorites.

Local Attractions

Cedar Key Historical Museum
Atsena Otie Key
Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge
Sunset viewing on Dock Street

Restaurants

Steamers
Tony’s Seafood Restaurant
83 West
Island Hotel Restaurant

Places to Stay

Island Hotel
Cedar Key Harbour Master Suites
Numerous waterfront cottages

Charter Captains

In The Slot Fishing Charters Cedar Key
Captain Travis Blucher Fishing Charters
Southern Salt Charters

Boat Ramps

Cedar Key Public Boat Ramp
Shell Mound Boat Ramp
Yankeetown Public Ramp

3. Keaton Beach

If your goal is catching giant Big Bend trout and redfish, Keaton Beach deserves serious consideration. This tiny coastal community sits directly in the heart of some of the most productive grass flats on the Gulf Coast.

What to Catch

Gator trout
Redfish
Flounder
Spanish mackerel
Cobia

Successful Tactics

Many anglers focus on drifting expansive grass flats with soft plastics and topwater plugs. Spring and fall often produce trophy-sized trout, while summer brings excellent scalloping opportunities.

Local Attractions

Scalloping
Gulf sunsets
Nature photography
Bird watching

Restaurants

Walter B’s Convenience and Grill
Nearby dining options in Perry

Places to Stay

Keaton Beach rental homes
Gulf-front vacation rentals

Charter Captains

Salty Tails Charters by Cajun and Cracker Outdoors
Reel Epic Charters

Boat Ramps

Keaton Beach Public Boat Ramp
Dark Island Ramp

4. Carrabelle

Located on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, Carrabelle combines excellent inshore and offshore fishing with deep maritime history. For more than a century, commercial fishing, shrimping, and oystering have shaped the town’s identity.

What to Catch

Redfish
Trout
Grouper
Snapper
Cobia
Tripletail

Successful Tactics

Fish oyster bars and grass edges inside the bay systems for redfish and trout. Offshore anglers can quickly reach productive reefs and wrecks.

Local Attractions

Crooked River Lighthouse
Camp Gordon Johnston Museum
Carrabelle Beach
Dog Island

Restaurants

The Fisherman’s Wife
Harry’s Bar
Carrabelle Junction

Places to Stay

The Old Carrabelle Hotel
St. James Bay Resort
Waterfront vacation rentals

Charter Captains

Anchors Aweigh Fishing Charters & More

Boat Ramps

Carrabelle River Boat Ramp
Marine Street Ramp

5. Apalachicola

Few fishing towns in Florida have as much history and character as Apalachicola. Once one of the Gulf Coast’s busiest ports, the town became famous for oysters and commercial fishing. Today, it remains one of the crown jewels of Florida’s Forgotten Coast.

What to Catch

Redfish
Speckled trout
Flounder
Tripletail
Tarpon
Offshore snapper and grouper

Successful Tactics

Target oyster bars, creek mouths, and grass shorelines for inshore species. The nearby passes and offshore structure provide excellent opportunities for larger gamefish.

Local Attractions

Historic Downtown Apalachicola
Apalachicola Maritime Museum
St. George Island
Cape St. George Lighthouse

Restaurants

Owl Cafe
Up The Creek Raw Bar
Hole in the Wall Seafood
The Station Raw Bar

Places to Stay

Gibson Inn
Water Street Hotel
Downtown bed and breakfasts

Charter Captains

Captain JB Charters Inc.

Boat Ramps

Battery Park Boat Ramp
Scipio Creek Marina

Final Thoughts

The beauty of the Big Bend isn’t just the fishing—it’s the people, the history, and the feeling that you’ve stepped back into a version of Florida that largely disappeared decades ago. Whether you’re launching a kayak in Cedar Key, chasing trout on the flats of Keaton Beach, scalloping in Steinhatchee, exploring the Forgotten Coast around Carrabelle, or enjoying fresh oysters in Apalachicola, each town offers its own unique experience.

For anglers looking to experience authentic North Florida, these five towns represent the very best of what the Big Bend has to offer.

The 10 Best Kayak Fishing Destinations in North Florida

June 10, 2026 / Max / Leave a comment

North Florida may be one of the best kayak fishing regions in the entire Southeast. From winding blackwater rivers and hidden spring runs to sprawling salt marshes and grass flats, kayak anglers have access to an incredible variety of fisheries without needing a large boat.

One of the best parts about kayak fishing in North Florida is diversity. In a single weekend, you can target largemouth bass in flooded timber, sight-fish for redfish on shallow grass flats, chase speckled trout in oyster creeks, catch flounder around docks, or even load the cooler with catfish on a river bend.

For this list, we focused on fisheries east of Lake Seminole, north of Ocala, and west of Jacksonville. These are places that offer excellent access, productive fishing, and the kind of scenery that makes North Florida special.

1. Suwannee River

The Suwannee River is probably the ultimate North Florida kayak fishing destination.

This river system offers miles of fishable water with everything from limestone shoals and cypress trees to deep bends and tidal marshes closer to the Gulf. Kayak anglers can target largemouth bass, Suwannee bass, catfish, redfish, flounder, and speckled trout depending on where they launch.

The upper stretches near White Springs and Branford are excellent for bass fishing, while the lower river near Suwannee and Horseshoe Beach becomes a brackish fishery loaded with saltwater species.

Species

Largemouth bass
Suwannee bass
Channel catfish
Redfish
Speckled trout
Flounder

Best Launches

Branford Boat Ramp
Fanning Springs
Suwannee Marina
Gornto Springs Ramp

Why It’s Great for Kayaks

Endless shoreline access
Protected water from wind
Tons of hidden creeks and backwaters
Excellent camping opportunities along the river

Local anglers on Reddit often describe the Suwannee system as one of the most unique fisheries in Florida because of its mix of current, springs, limestone structure, and tidal influence.

2. St. Marks & Apalachee Bay

If your goal is saltwater kayak fishing, it’s hard to beat the St. Marks area.

Miles of shallow grass flats, oyster bars, tidal creeks, and protected marshes create ideal habitat for redfish, trout, flounder, and sheepshead. This region is especially popular among kayak anglers because much of the water is too shallow for larger boats.

Spring through fall can offer phenomenal topwater action for trout and redfish.

Species

Redfish
Speckled trout
Flounder
Sheepshead
Black drum

Best Launches

Shields Marina
St. Marks River Park
Aucilla River
Lighthouse Boat Ramp

Why It’s Great for Kayaks

Vast shallow-water access
Minimal boat traffic in many areas
Incredible sight-fishing opportunities
Beautiful marsh scenery

The Big Bend region also hosts multiple kayak-friendly tournaments throughout the year.

3. Lake Talquin

Lake Talquin near Tallahassee is one of the best kayak bass fisheries in North Florida.

The lake’s standing timber, creek channels, river bends, and offshore structure give kayak anglers access to excellent largemouth bass fishing year-round. Talquin fishes differently than many Florida lakes because of its depth and river influence.

Species

Largemouth bass
Crappie
Catfish
Hybrid striped bass

Best Launches

Coe Landing
Williams Landing
Fort Braden Ramp

Why It’s Great for Kayaks

Protected coves and creek arms
Excellent offshore electronics fishing
Big bass potential
Less pressure than many Florida lakes

The Tallahassee area has also become increasingly popular for competitive kayak bass fishing tournaments.

4. Jacksonville Intracoastal & Talbot Island Area

The Jacksonville backwater marsh systems offer some of the best inshore kayak fishing on Florida’s east coast.

Places like Clapboard Creek, Sisters Creek, Fort George River, and the Talbot Island marshes give kayak anglers access to miles of oyster-lined creeks and shallow flats.

Species

Redfish
Speckled trout
Flounder
Sheepshead
Black drum
Tarpon (seasonally)

Best Launches

Jim King Park
Little Talbot Island
Dutton Island Preserve
Sisters Creek

Why It’s Great for Kayaks

Endless creek systems
Protected marshes
Excellent flood tide fishing
Strong year-round inshore bite

Jacksonville also has a growing kayak tournament scene, especially for redfish and trout anglers.

5. Ochlockonee River

The Ochlockonee River offers one of the best mixed-species kayak fisheries in North Florida.

This system combines river fishing, tidal creeks, cypress swamps, and marshes into one massive fishery. Anglers can catch largemouth bass far upriver and transition into redfish and trout closer to the bay.

Species

Largemouth bass
Redfish
Speckled trout
Catfish
Flounder

Best Launches

Ochlockonee River State Park
Mashes Sands
White Oak Landing

Why It’s Great for Kayaks

Diverse water types
Scenic old Florida environment
Excellent tidal creek fishing
Minimal fishing pressure

6. Santa Fe River

The Santa Fe River is one of the most beautiful paddle fisheries in Florida.

Spring-fed clear water mixes with tannic sections and creates ideal habitat for bass and panfish. The river also connects to the Suwannee, allowing adventurous anglers to explore huge stretches of fishable water.

Species

Largemouth bass
Suwannee bass
Catfish
Bluegill

Best Launches

Rum Island
Poe Springs
High Springs Boat Ramp

Why It’s Great for Kayaks

Crystal-clear spring runs
Easy floating access
Excellent camping and paddling
Beautiful scenery

7. Dead Lakes

The Dead Lakes near Wewahitchka feel tailor-made for kayak anglers.

Cypress trees, shallow backwaters, and hidden pockets create ideal ambush habitat for largemouth bass. The calm water and maze-like layout make it one of the best places in Florida for exploring by kayak.

Species

Largemouth bass
Catfish
Bluegill
Crappie

Best Launches

Dead Lakes Park
Wewahitchka Landing

Why It’s Great for Kayaks

Calm protected water
Incredible cypress scenery
Excellent shallow-water fishing
Great photography opportunities

8. Cedar Key & Lower Suwannee

Cedar Key and the Lower Suwannee region offer classic Big Bend kayak fishing.

This area combines shallow grass flats, oyster bars, tidal creeks, and hidden marsh ponds. Redfish and trout dominate the fishery, but flounder and sheepshead are also common.

Species

Redfish
Speckled trout
Flounder
Sheepshead
Black drum

Best Launches

Shell Mound
Cedar Key City Ramp
Lower Suwannee Refuge

Why It’s Great for Kayaks

Massive shallow-water access
Protected marshes
Sight-fishing opportunities
Less crowded than many Gulf Coast fisheries

The Nature Coast Challenge has helped make this region a destination for competitive kayak anglers.

9. Wacissa River

The Wacissa River is a hidden gem for kayak anglers who enjoy quiet water and natural beauty.

This spring-fed river has countless side channels, submerged grass, and cypress-lined banks. It’s not known for giant bass, but it offers steady action and incredible scenery.

Species

Largemouth bass
Panfish
Catfish
Gar

Best Launches

Wacissa Boat Ramp

Why It’s Great for Kayaks

No-wake environment
Crystal-clear water
Excellent wildlife viewing
Great beginner kayak fishery

Local paddlers frequently mention the Wacissa as one of the quietest and most scenic rivers in North Florida.

10. Rodman Reservoir

Rodman Reservoir is famous for giant largemouth bass, and kayak anglers can access areas many larger boats avoid.

Fishing heavy hydrilla, flooded timber, and shoreline cover from a kayak gives anglers a stealth advantage that often produces bigger fish.

Species

Largemouth bass
Crappie
Catfish

Best Launches

Kenwood Landing
Orange Springs Ramp

Why It’s Great for Kayaks

Trophy bass potential
Access to shallow backwaters
Excellent flipping and frog fishing
Legendary Florida bass fishery

Kayak Fishing Tournaments in North Florida

Kayak fishing tournaments continue to grow across North Florida, especially catch-photo-release style events.

Some of the most popular events include:

Big Bend Kayak Classic
Nature Coast Challenge
Inshore Xtreme Kayak Challenge
HCKAC Tournament Series
Tallahassee Kayak Adventure Series events

Many of these tournaments target redfish, trout, flounder, and largemouth bass while emphasizing conservation and kayak-only competition formats.

Final Thoughts

North Florida is one of the best kayak fishing regions in the country because of its variety. Few places allow anglers to fish freshwater rivers, tidal marshes, grass flats, cypress swamps, and spring-fed creeks all within a few hours of each other.

Whether you want to chase giant largemouth bass in flooded timber, pole shallow flats for redfish, or spend an entire day exploring untouched creeks and marshes, North Florida has a kayak fishery that fits your style.

The best part is that many of these fisheries still feel wild, uncrowded, and deeply connected to old Florida — something that becomes harder to find every year.

Top 10 Largemouth Bass Fisheries in North Florida

June 1, 2026 / Max / Leave a comment

North Florida is one of the most underrated bass fishing regions in the country. While places like Lake Okeechobee and the St. Johns River get most of the national attention, anglers from Panama City Beach to Ocala have access to some incredible largemouth fisheries that consistently produce numbers, trophy fish, and year-round action.

From tannic river systems and spring-fed lakes to massive reservoirs and hidden swamp fisheries, North Florida offers a little bit of everything for bass anglers. Whether you’re a tournament fisherman, a kayak angler, or somebody just looking to catch a few fish before sunset, these are some of the best bass waters North Florida has to offer.

1. Lake Seminole

Located on the Florida-Georgia line where the Flint and Chattahoochee Rivers meet, Lake Seminole is arguably the crown jewel of North Florida bass fishing.

This massive reservoir is famous for producing giant largemouth bass and excellent numbers of fish throughout the year. Hydrilla, grass lines, lily pads, timber, creek channels, and river ledges give anglers endless options depending on the season.

Seminole has become nationally known for frog fishing, flipping grass mats, and offshore ledge fishing. Springtime can produce some incredible shallow-water action, while summer and fall fish often stack up offshore.

Why It’s a Top Fishery

Consistent trophy bass potential
Massive amount of fishable cover
Excellent year-round fishing
Strong tournament scene

Boat Launches

Seminole State Park
Wingate’s Lunker Lodge
Sneads Park Boat Ramp

Best Techniques

Hollow body frogs
Punching grass mats
Crankbaits on ledges
Lipless crankbaits in spring

2. Rodman Reservoir

If trophy largemouth bass are your goal, Rodman Reservoir belongs near the top of every list.

Located east of Ocala near Palatka, Rodman is famous for giant Florida-strain largemouth bass and heavy vegetation fishing. Flooded timber, hydrilla, eelgrass, and creek channels create ideal habitat for oversized fish.

Rodman isn’t always easy fishing, but when conditions line up, it can produce some of the biggest bass in the entire state.

Why It’s a Top Fishery

True double-digit bass potential
Legendary reputation among trophy anglers
Heavy cover creates ideal habitat
Excellent winter and spring fishing

Boat Launches

Kenwood Recreation Area
Orange Springs Boat Ramp
Rodman Campground Ramp

Best Techniques

Wild shiners
Flipping creature baits
Big swimbaits
Speed worms and frogs

3. Suwannee River

The Suwannee River may not get the same publicity as some Florida lakes, but it offers a unique bass fishery unlike anywhere else in the state.

This dark-water river system holds healthy populations of largemouth bass along with shoal bass and panfish. Fallen timber, spring runs, cypress trees, and limestone banks create ideal ambush points for bass.

The Suwannee is especially popular among kayak anglers and small boat fishermen.

Why It’s a Top Fishery

Scenic, old Florida atmosphere
Excellent river fishing opportunities
Plenty of public access
Less pressure than major lakes

Boat Launches

Suwannee River State Park
Dowling Park Ramp
Fanning Springs Ramp
Branford Ramp

Best Techniques

Texas-rigged worms
Spinnerbaits around wood
Topwater plugs at daylight
Swim jigs along cypress edges

4. Orange Lake

Orange Lake near Gainesville has long been one of the best big bass lakes in North Florida.

Water levels fluctuate over the years, but when conditions are right, Orange Lake can produce incredible fishing. Vast grass flats, hydrilla beds, and shallow spawning areas create prime bass habitat.

The lake has a strong history of producing tournament-winning bags and trophy fish.

Why It’s a Top Fishery

Big bass genetics
Large shallow grass flats
Strong spawning habitat
Historically productive fishery

Boat Launches

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Ramp
Heagy-Burry Park Boat Ramp

Best Techniques

Chatterbaits
Lipless crankbaits
Weightless stick worms
Frogs over grass

5. Lake Talquin

Lake Talquin west of Tallahassee is one of the best overlooked bass lakes in the region.

This river-fed reservoir offers deep water, creek channels, standing timber, and offshore structure that separates it from many shallow Florida lakes. Talquin consistently produces quality fish and has an excellent offshore bite during summer and winter.

Why It’s a Top Fishery

Strong offshore fishing opportunities
Excellent structure fishing
Lower fishing pressure
Big fish potential

Boat Launches

Coe Landing
Williams Landing
Ingram’s Marina

Best Techniques

Deep-diving crankbaits
Carolina rigs
Jig fishing timber
Shaky heads offshore

6. Santa Fe Lake

Santa Fe Lake near Melrose is a clear-water fishery that gives anglers a different style of bass fishing than most North Florida lakes.

The lake is known for healthy grass beds, docks, and clean water that often requires more finesse presentations. It consistently produces quality bass and offers beautiful scenery.

Why It’s a Top Fishery

Clear-water sight fishing opportunities
Healthy vegetation
Consistent quality fish
Excellent dock fishing

Boat Launches

Melrose Bay Park
Santa Fe Lake Park

Best Techniques

Wacky-rigged worms
Swim jigs
Topwater walking baits
Finesse worms

7. Dead Lakes

The Dead Lakes near Wewahitchka offer one of the most unique bass fishing experiences in Florida.

Known for its haunting cypress trees and maze-like backwaters, this fishery is loaded with shallow cover and ambush points for largemouth bass.

Fishing here feels like stepping back into old Florida.

Why It’s a Top Fishery

Incredible cypress tree fishing
Scenic backwater environment
Excellent shallow-water bite
Great kayak fishery

Boat Launches

Dead Lakes Park
Wewahitchka Boat Ramp

Best Techniques

Spinnerbaits
Squarebill crankbaits
Weightless soft plastics
Topwater frogs

8. Lake Rousseau

Lake Rousseau near Crystal River is another underrated North Florida bass destination.

This river-fed lake has abundant submerged timber, grass, and creek channels that hold quality bass year-round. It’s especially productive during cooler months when fish move shallow.

Why It’s a Top Fishery

Excellent winter fishing
Diverse habitat
Strong numbers of keeper bass
Less crowded than larger lakes

Boat Launches

Lake Rousseau State Park Ramp
Potts Preserve Ramp

Best Techniques

Flipping wood cover
Lipless crankbaits
Soft jerkbaits
Chatterbaits

9. Ochlockonee River & Lake System

The Ochlockonee River system provides anglers with a mix of river and reservoir fishing opportunities.

This system holds healthy bass populations with plenty of cypress trees, grass lines, docks, and tidal influence in some areas.

It’s a versatile fishery that fishes differently throughout the year depending on water levels and river flow.

Why It’s a Top Fishery

Combination river and lake fishing
Excellent habitat diversity
Strong spring bite
Good public access

Boat Launches

Ochlockonee River State Park
Talquin Highway Ramp
White Oak Landing

Best Techniques

Spinnerbaits
Texas-rigged worms
Swim jigs
Buzzbaits in low light

10. Lake Miccosukee

Lake Miccosukee near Tallahassee is a shallow natural lake known for excellent spring bass fishing.

Water levels can fluctuate significantly, but when the lake is healthy, it can produce outstanding numbers of bass in shallow vegetation.

Why It’s a Top Fishery

Excellent spawning habitat
Productive shallow-water fishing
Strong springtime action
Good kayak opportunities

Boat Launches

Lake Miccosukee County Park

Best Techniques

Frogs
Speed worms
Swim jigs
Weightless plastics

Final Thoughts

North Florida offers some of the most diverse largemouth bass fishing in the Southeast. Whether you prefer flipping heavy hydrilla, fishing offshore ledges, throwing frogs through lily pads, or working soft plastics around cypress trees, there’s a fishery here that fits your style.

One of the best things about bass fishing in North Florida is that many of these lakes and rivers still feel untouched compared to heavily pressured fisheries farther south. You can spend a day on the water surrounded by old cypress trees, spring-fed rivers, and marsh grass while still having a legitimate chance at catching the biggest bass of your life.

For anglers willing to explore beyond the famous destinations, North Florida may be one of the best bass fishing regions in the entire country.

Beginner’s Guide to Big Bend Redfish

May 25, 2026 / Max / Leave a comment

From Cedar Key to Panacea: Chasing Bronze Along Florida’s Forgotten Coast

Florida’s Big Bend is one of the last truly wild stretches of coastline left in the state. Unlike South Florida or the Gulf beaches farther west, the coast from Cedar Key through Suwannee, Horseshoe Beach, Steinhatchee, Keaton Beach, St. Marks and up toward Panacea is defined by miles of grass flats, tidal creeks, oyster bars, marshes, and shallow water. It’s skinny-water country—and that makes it redfish country. The region is known for expansive shallow flats, marsh systems, oyster bars, and year-round redfish habitat.

If you’re new to chasing redfish in the Big Bend, the amount of water can feel overwhelming. The good news? Redfish are creatures of habit. Learn a few basics about tides, bait, and where fish move, and you’ll dramatically shorten the learning curve.

Understanding Big Bend Redfish

Redfish in the Big Bend live shallow. They spend their days hunting shrimp, mullet, crabs, and baitfish around grass flats, oyster bars, potholes, creek mouths and marsh edges. They commonly move with the tide—pushing shallow on incoming water and dropping into deeper cuts or potholes when water falls.

One thing that surprises many newcomers: this coastline is extremely shallow. In some areas you can run a mile offshore and still only be in a few feet of water. Cedar Key especially is famous for its sprawling grass flats and skinny-water fishing opportunities.

That means two things:

Redfish have incredible habitat
You can get stuck quickly if you ignore tides

Tides Matter More Than Almost Anything

Many new anglers focus on moon phases or weather. In the Big Bend, focus on tides first.

Redfish use moving water like a dinner bell.

Incoming Tide

As water rises, fish push onto flooded grass, oyster edges and marsh banks looking for shrimp and crabs.

This is often the best time for:

Sight-fishing tailing reds
Working shallow flats
Fishing grass points
Kayak fishing marshes

Redfish in Cedar Key commonly move shallow during the last part of the incoming tide and early outgoing periods.

Outgoing Tide

Falling water funnels bait out of creeks and marsh drains.

Look for:

Small creek mouths
Tidal cuts
Oyster points
Potholes

Fish often stack up in these “choke points.”

Dead Low Tide

Don’t panic if you arrive at low water.

Many anglers struggle because they continue fishing shallow areas that are now dry. Instead, fish nearby potholes, channels, and deeper troughs where reds retreat until water rises again. Cedar Key anglers often target potholes and deeper channels during low water periods.

Best Baits for Beginner Big Bend Redfish

You do not need twenty rods and a tackle store in your boat.

Start simple.

Live Bait

For beginners, these consistently produce:

Live shrimp
Finger mullet
Mud minnows
Cut mullet
Blue crab chunks

Local anglers regularly rely on shrimp, mullet and crab around Cedar Key and Big Bend waters.

Rig them:

Under a popping cork
On a jig head
Knocker rig near oysters
Free-lined in shallow water

Artificial Lures

Keep a small tackle box with:

Gold spoon
A Big Bend classic. Covers water and rarely snags grass.

Paddle tails
3–4 inch soft plastics on 1/8 oz jig heads.

Gulp shrimp
A favorite among Big Bend anglers, especially under popping corks.

Topwater plugs
Early mornings can be explosive.

Big Bend anglers frequently report strong topwater and spoon bites during redfish seasons.

Beginner Gear Setup

No need for heavy saltwater gear.

A simple setup:

Rod:
7’ medium or medium-heavy spinning rod

Reel:
2500–3000 size spinning reel

Line:
10–15 lb braid

Leader:
20–25 lb fluorocarbon

This setup handles slot reds while still being light enough for trout and flounder.

Bring extra leader.

Big Bend oysters destroy fishing line.

Fishing From a Boat

The Big Bend is made for shallow boats.

Flats skiffs, jon boats, bay boats, and small skiffs excel here.

When fishing from a boat:

Drift grass flats
Use trolling motors in shallow water
Watch for oyster bars
Follow channels carefully
Study maps before running

The coastline is beautiful—but unforgiving.

A common beginner mistake is blasting across unknown flats at low tide.

Spend more time exploring than running.

Fishing From a Kayak

Kayaks may actually be the best way for beginners to learn Big Bend redfish.

Why?

You naturally slow down.

And slowing down catches fish.

Areas around Shell Mound, Steinhatchee, creek systems, and shallow marshes are popular among kayak anglers. Community anglers repeatedly mention creeks and shallow marsh access as ideal kayak water.

Kayak advantages:

Access water boats can’t reach
Quiet approach
Easy sight fishing
Less fuel cost

Bring:

Stakeout pole
Good GPS or phone maps
Plenty of water
Tide chart

And remember:

You paddle in with the tide…

You paddle out against it.

Fishing From Shore

Most people assume Big Bend redfish require a boat.

Not true.

Shore anglers can still find success around:

Fishing piers
Bridge approaches
Creek mouths
Public access points
Marsh edges

Target moving water around structure.

Fish:

Live shrimp under corks
Gold spoons
Paddle tails

Focus less on casting far and more on finding current and bait.

Areas Worth Exploring

Without giving away anyone’s honey holes, beginners should explore:

Cedar Key: islands, oyster bars, grass flats and tidal creeks. The area is known for shallow keys and extensive grass systems.

Suwannee: creek mouths and marshes

Horseshoe Beach: scattered oyster structure and grass

Steinhatchee: potholes, flats and creek systems

Keaton Beach: endless grass and redfish schools

St. Marks/Panacea: marsh shorelines and oyster edges

Final Thoughts

The Big Bend rewards anglers who slow down and learn water movement.

You do not need a $70,000 flats boat or a tackle room full of gear.

You need:

Moving water
Bait presence
Quiet approaches
Time on the water

Spend enough mornings watching mullet flip along a grass edge, and eventually you’ll see it:

A copper back pushing water through the marsh.

And once you catch your first Big Bend redfish, you’ll understand why so many anglers become obsessed with this stretch of Florida coast.

Tight lines from Cedar Key to Panacea.

New Florida State record Blue Catfish

May 22, 2026May 22, 2026 / Max / Leave a comment

The news Has already been all over social media as well as the internet, but the Florida Blue Catfish record has just been broken by a North Florida man Named Justin Hodge from Old town. He caught this beast on our very own Suwannee River and it weighed in at 73.6lbs, beating the previous record by over 4lbs. For more information on the catch click the link below and read his interview he did with the Wired2Fish guys, they did a great job covering the story.

https://www.wired2fish.com/news/monster-blue-catfish-breaks-11-year-old-florida-record