Birdwatchers and bass anglers enjoy fishing at Lake Tohopekaliga. Also referred to as “Lake Toho,” this lake is home to several professional bass-fishing tournaments. Largemouth bass thrive in high numbers in the lake, as well as bluegill, black crappie, warmouth, redear sunfish, spotted sunfish, and channel catfish. Chain pickerel and longnose gar are often spotted here. Anglers fish from the shore, piers, and from boats, which they can launch from one of the lake’s boat ramps.

driving directions

You’ll find most fish species in the lake near hydrilla and other water plants. Look for birds and minnows to find out where the fish are swimming. The offshore hydrilla near channel marker 24, the grassy island, and Goblets Cove are the best places to find bass and Florida bucket mouth. Artificial lures or shiners are best for catching these species.

Surfcasting, baitcasting, and spinning all work well in Lake Tohopekaliga. The early morning is the best time for fishing, and anglers often use topwater baits, swimbaits, lipless crankbaits, and jerk baits. The shallow waters affect the fish in the lake, and trophy bass fishing with shiners is best from December to mid-April. The bass usually moves into hydrilla or Kissimmee grass from mid-April to September and becomes more scattered throughout the lake from September onwards.

Lake Tohopekaliga boat ramps:

The following boat ramps provide access to Lake Tohopekaliga.