Lake Okeechobee fishing report, July/August, 2026 by Capt. Angie Douthit, Okeechobee, Fl

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Lake Okeechobee’s current water level still remains lower than normal hovering around the 11.30 ft mark. The low water level allows for new native grass(s) to root, take hold and flourish. I’m super excited for this upcoming guide season kicking off this October and anticipate a great opportunity in catching lots of bass and an awesome spawn season for both bass and crappie. Right now “what’s biting” is bass and bream. The bream bite will continue through the summer months and bass can be caught fishing both the lake and Kissimmee River around the bream beds. Local bass tournaments are catching some big sacks on the River and the Lake. If you choose to fish the lake be aware of long idle times to reach fishable areas, take no short cuts when running the lake and stay way out from the grass line due to rock bottom in most areas of the lake. Harney pond canal located in Lakeport is a good place to launch if you’re wanting to fish the lake which you’re able to run the pvc white pole markers that will safely guide you around the Monkey box and on down to the Shoal area towards Clewiston. That is the only safe way to travel for the current low water conditions of the Lake. If you’re launching from the Kissimmee River, running out into the lake, be sure to stay way out from Kings bar (big grass edge on your right) when running west towards Buckhead Ridge/Tin house/Indian Praire area, sit down way out then idle in, it’s the safest way you’ll be able to reach/fish these areas until the water level rises this Fall/early Winter timeframe. Lures for bass that are catching are: Moibba; senkos; 12-13 inch worms; flipping/pitching lures; swim jigs/ swim baits; top water; frogs; deep diving cranks and C-Rigs in the River. Lure choices are: Junebug; White; Watermelon/Red; shad/crawdad colors; Red bug; Plum and Tequila Sunrise. For bream fishing: live crickets/red wiggler worms fished just off the bottom with a small split shot hook when fishing ledges in the River/deeper water areas and if you’re fishing the lake add a small bobber pegged for the shallow depth that you’re fishing with light spinning gear such as a 7 ft spinning rig with 4 lb Stren in clear-blue. To book you’re next fun-filled day on the water call me direct at 863-228-7263, I am do return calls very efficiently and if you have questions please reach out, I’m always happy to discuss any questions regarding booking a trip. I can accommodate group trips and do offer Veteran discounts. I also work with the top hotel in Okeechobee offering my customers deep discounts and will recommend top places to eat and enjoy “on land activities” for those staying on land. My website is kept current and will provide the information you’ll need to book your trip www.southfloridabassfishing.com