As of October 26, 2024, Lake Okeechobee is buzzing with activity, making it an exciting time for anglers. The water level has been hovering around the 15-foot mark, influenced by recent rains and the possibility of tropical depressions.

Weather conditions are mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s, perfect for a day on the water. Sunrise is at around 7:30 AM, and sunset is expected at about 6:30 PM, providing ample daylight for fishing.

Fish activity is picking up, especially for largemouth bass, peacock bass, and various panfish. Yesterday saw a good number of bass catches, with some bigger females showing up in the reeds and under mats. Anglers reported catching around 20 bass up to 8 pounds using live bait and artificial lures.

For bass, the best lures include worms, swim baits, shallow crank baits, top water lures, and frogs. The flipping and pitching technique has been particularly effective. Color patterns such as Junebug, Redbug, White, Okeechobee Craw, Alabama Craw, Tilapia, and black/blue are proving successful.

Bream are also active, biting well in and around their beds using live crickets or worms. Be prepared to catch catfish, Mayan cichlids, and Oscars as well, which are known to be great eating.

Hot spots include the areas from Buckhead Ridge to Tin House, the North shore around Dyess Ditch and Harney Pond, Dupree bar, Monkey Box, and parts of Observation Shoal down to the Blue Hole area. The outside fringes of inshore spawning grounds, especially around the mouth of the Kissimmee River and King’s Bar, are also producing good results.

For panfish, the moving water at John Stretch Park in South Bay and the Rim Canal near the Moore Haven Lock are excellent spots, using worms, crickets, and minnows.

If you're launching on the West side at the Harney Pond Canal, be sure to stop by Jack’s Big Water Bait & Tackle store for all your tackle needs.

With the upcoming busy fishing season, now is the perfect time to get out on Lake Okeechobee and enjoy some productive and fun-filled days on the water.