North Central Florida Inland – June Fishing Report

It’s summer time, Forest Fishers!  These are the months that catfish anglers look forward to most, and when night fishing becomes a sport of its own.  Yes, the heat has arrived, but we have a big advantage on our side this year, and that is, SHADE.

One of the greatest benefits from living out here, is that our lakes and rivers are surrounded by trees.  As the sun rises and falls, you can fish the shade-line to keep yourself cool, while also targeting the most productive area.  Gamefish, like bass, will stay in the shadows, and attack prey that wander into the light.  For most bass addicts, myself included, walking a topwater bait along shade-lines, is our favorite summer tradition.  Top-waters catch the “biggins”, and that explosion is the best drug for our habit.

If you are fishing in direct sunlight, steadily move along, and pitch to every bit of cover.  After getting a few bites, you’ll begin to notice successful patterns. Lilly pads, brush-piles, or even trash from careless jerks, can all have groups of fish hiding underneath.  Tip: Bream bedding areas actually load up more and more, as the sun gets higher.  These areas will be in 2 to 4 foot depth, with grass or structure beside them, but not above.  Note: The amount of big bedding blue-gill this year is, by far, the most I’ve ever seen.

Summer can be an awesome time to get outdoors and explore nature, thanks to our greatest treasure of all, the Ocklawaha River.  It’s narrow, winding flow creates the perfect combination of shade and deep/clean water.  Florida’s sun can get brutal, so the numerous white clear/sand water swimming spots (Gore’s Landing area), are like a cherry on top of the sweetest pie.  For a quick fishing trip, simply target the eddies to eliminate water and keep the bites coming.  With endless areas to explore, there are perfect spots for every different species, and the possibility of a record breaker is a legitimate reality.  On any given day, victory may be just around the next bend!