Central Florida Inland – December Fishing Report

Alright fishers of the forest, we’ve made it through the brutally hot months, and fish population numbers are looking great.  It wasn’t long ago that the only people consistently catching fish, were either going to a friend’s private (stocked) pond, or had an offshore “honey hole” (GPS marked) where they used a specific/complicated system to achieve success.  Fortunately, Mother Nature has gone through a miraculous transformation over the last couple years, and that’s no longer the case.

The Ocala National Forest is an amazing place, made up of many different and unique areas.  A short drive in any direction, and you’re in a whole new world.  When I purchased my home here (6 years ago) I began searching everywhere, thinking there must be one lake hidden out here with the quality of bass fishing we trophy hunters dream of.  I could never have imagined the mass amount of quality lakes I discovered.  I went to middle school and high school near here (Ft. McCoy) and was an avid fisherman then also.  Without a cell phone GPS to rely on though, everyone just fished the Ocklawaha and St. John’s Rivers.  The only lakes I knew of were Lake Kerr and Lake Bryant.

Now, that I have endless spots to choose from, there’s always somewhere that perfectly fits the weather conditions I’m facing, and species I’m targeting.  For most of us, our focus during winter is mainly on crappie (specks).  Are they schooled up well? How big is the average size, and where are the giants?  Judging by the monster sunfish everywhere, and the loads of medium size specks we saw last year (pic), I’d  say, “Don’t worry about a thing”.  Just gear up for some good times and good eating.  December will still be producing big sunfish on the outer edge of reed patches and lily pad fields.  The great thing is, you’ll be there catching bluegill and shell crackers, and then one day you’ll end up getting a few specks thrown into the mix.  That’s when you know it’s time to start trolling open water in search of the schools. Hint: Any cheap depth finder will show schools as you go over them.  It’ll also show the prime areas to target, which are depth drop-offs (ledges) and brush piles.

Yes, my friends, it surely is nice to know that anytime you hit the water, you’re gonna have a blast.  Whichever type of vessel you have, just let the wind drift you around a bit, and when you start seeing boils from spooked gamefish, you’ll know you’re on “the juice”.  As always, feel free to contact me anytime for advice, or to book an adventure.  Our prairies are truly gorgeous right now.  They’re full of fish, full of wildlife, and with a knowledable guide leading the way; you’re free to take it all in and enjoy every second.