Discover the 6 Best Fishing Spots in Orlando
Discover the 6 Best Fishing Spots in Orlando
Florida boasts hundreds of water bodies brimming with fish, so it’s no wonder it holds the title of the Fishing Capital of the World. At the heart of the state, Orlando provides its fair share of lakes perfect for anglers of all skill levels.
Explore the best fishing spots in Orlando and find small lakes and sprawling water bodies to cast your line.
6 Places To Fish in Orlando, Florida
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Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
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West Lake Tohopekaliga
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Lake Conway Chain of Lakes
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Lake Weohyakapka
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Lake Jesup
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Lake Apopka
Whether you are a seasoned angler or an enthusiastic newbie, you will find something you like in and around Orlando.
1 | Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo |
Westgate River Ranch & Rodeo offers all sorts of outdoor adventures within its 1,700 acres.
You can fish on the bountiful Kissimmee River within the resort’s premises or explore the Catch and Release pond. Discover Warmouth, Florida Gar, catfish, and other freshwater species native to Florida’s waters.
If you want to introduce your kids to fishing, you’ll find the Catch and Release Pond perfect for aspiring anglers of all ages.
In case you’re up for a short drive, you can cast your line down Lake Kissimmee and catch bass, redear sunfish, bluegills, and other beauties. For a longer trip, there’s the thriving Lake Okeechobee, which is an hour south of the resort and is known for its humongous bass catches.
You don’t need to venture out to buy gear, as Westgate River Ranch’s marina and Bait and Tackle shop are fully equipped to cater to all your requirements. If you don't have a fishing license, you can use the marina’s phone to get it swiftly.
WHERE: 3200 River Ranch Blvd, River Ranch, FL 33867 │WHO: 863-692-1321
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2 | Lake Tohopekaliga |
Lake Tohopekaliga, Osceola County’s largest lake at 23,000 acres, is known locally as Lake Toho or Westlake (distinct from East Lake Tohopekaliga). Famous nationwide for bass fishing, the lake is ranked among the top 100 lakes by Bassmaster magazine and features walleyes, redear sunfish, crappies, and bluegills. No wonder it hosts major tournaments like Bassmaster.
If you prefer fishing from the lakeshore, try Kissimmee Lakefront Park and Brinson Park, which offer piers, picnic spots, and BBQ grills. If you're fishing by boat, explore Makinson Island for a peaceful family dinner. The lake's popularity has led to the development of parks, playgrounds, splash pads, boat rentals, and marinas along its shores.
WHERE: Lake Tohopekaliga, Kissimmee, FL
3 | Conway Chain of Lakes |
Just a short drive from Orlando International Airport lies a little slice of the Caribbean: the Conway Chain of Lakes. This 1,800-acre area consists of three lakes—Lake Conway, Big Lake Conway, and Lake Gatlin—though locals sometimes refer to them as four distinct bodies of water.
These lakes offer year-round fishing opportunities. When you gaze into the crystal-clear water, you’ll see sandy lake floors at depths ranging from 8 ft to 30 ft, with sections of eelgrass, peppergrass, and hydrilla that attract largemouth bass. You can also spot crappies, shad, bream, and catfish.
Marvel at turtles gliding underwater, waterfowl fluttering around the shore, and otters sneaking about. The shoreline is lined with palm and oak trees, picturesque houses, and parks, creating breathtaking views.
After a day of fishing, head to Fish on Fire, a popular Orlando restaurant that’ll grill your catch to perfection.
WHERE: Lake Conway, Belle Isle, FL 32809
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4 | Lake Weohyakapka |
Lake Weohyakapka, also known as Lake Walk-in-Water, is Polk County’s best-kept secret. This lake is home to prized bass, feisty barramundi, and placid mangrove snapper, along with crappies, panfish, bowfin, and catfish.
Both onshore and offshore fishing are allowed here, but the shallow waters can make launching a boat challenging during drier times. If you’re on the hunt for trophy-sized largemouth bass, try fishing at twilight or nighttime. You'll have better chances of catching mangrove snappers during a full moon when they gather around reefs to spawn. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for barramundis.
The Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC) has installed several marked fish attractors throughout the lake, making it easier for anglers of all skill levels to find and catch fish.
The area by the shore is lush green and beautiful—perfect for a retreat. If you want to dedicate a whole day to fishing, you can explore other nearby lakes, like Tiger Lake, Reedy Lake, and Lake Clinch, all a short distance away.
WHERE: Lake Weohyakapka, Polk County, FL
5 | Lake Jesup |
Lake Jesup is one of the largest lakes in the U.S., renowned for its abundance of freshwater fish. It’s teeming with catfish, shellcrackers, bass, crappies, walleyes, and other popular species, especially along the weed beds.
If you want to stay on land, you can fish from the shore’s many fishing piers. Should you feel up to a more immersive experience, rent a boat or try a guided fishing tour.
Lake Jesup is surrounded by untouched Florida wilderness, making it incredibly popular among nature lovers. The lake and its shores are home to hundreds of birds and over 10,000 gators.
For a true taste of the wild, you can spend a night camping on the lakeshore at Lake Jesup Conservation Area. If it’s a family excursion, you can set up your lounging spot at Central Wind Park. There, you’ll find pavilions to cool off, a playground for kids, and grills to cook the day’s catch.
WHERE: Lake Jesup, Seminole County, FL
6 | Lake Apopka |
Lake Apopka, one of the largest lakes in the U.S. with 30,000 acres of water, offers an unforgettable fishing experience. While some anglers pass it up due to the murky water, don’t be fooled—the lake is packed with big bass, crappies, bluegills, and chain pickerel. Plus, you might spot alligators and migratory birds while you’re there.
Chat with local anglers or bait shop staff to find the best fishing spots. North Shore and Wildlife Drive are great for bass, while the shallow waters near Magnolia Park are perfect for crappies and bluegills. If you’d rather skip the hassle, guided fishing tours are available, too.
And those in your group who aren’t into fishing can explore the wilderness by horseback riding, hiking, bird-watching, or cycling around Lake Apopka. Don’t miss the breathtaking sunsets over the lake!
WHERE: Lake Apopka, Orange County, FL
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Frequently Asked Questions about Best Fishing Spots in Orlando
Do I need a fishing license to fish in Orlando, Florida?
You need a fishing license from the Florida Wildlife Commission to cast your line, or you may face hefty fines. Exceptional cases include free fishing days, such as during the beginning and end of Fishing and Boating Week. Note that out-of-state licenses are not valid.
Permits can be obtained from the FWC website, tax collector offices, or a license agent. You can also call 888-347-4356 or 888-486-8356 or use the official Fish|Hunt FL app on your mobile device.
Where to get fishing gear in Orlando?
Many chartered boats and some municipal piers offer equipment rentals, letting you get what you need on the spot. Alternatively, services like Rent This Rod can ship gear to you anywhere in the U.S., renting it for up to two weeks.
If you prefer to purchase the equipment, you can visit Bass Pro Shops or Orlando Outfitters. Plus, you can bring your gear home, as most fishing equipment is allowed on planes.
How do I prepare for a fishing trip in Orlando, Florida?
Before heading out, stock up on sunscreen, insect repellent, and polarized sunglasses to spot fish in clear waters. Wear comfortable shorts and closed-toe shoes like sneakers to protect your feet from lures. Bring a waterproof bag for your phone, a towel for cleaning up, and an extra pair of dry shoes ashore. Be sure to check local fishing regulations before your trip.
Are there any catch-and-release-only fishing spots in Orlando?
Many natural reserves on lakeshores allow fishing strictly on a catch-and-release basis, such as the Cherokee Point Conservation Area and Twin Oaks Conservation Area. If you’re looking for private properties, try Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo’s Catch and Release pond, which is perfect for anglers of all ages.
What’s the best fishing season in Orlando?
Orlando offers year-round fishing, but the best season depends on the species. Bass is best in spring (January–March), yellowfin tuna in summer, and king mackerel in winter. Some fish, like mangrove snapper and sheepshead, are available year-round. Take note that certain species, like red snapper and gag grouper, have seasonal bans, so check regulations before your trip.
Orlando—A Place Where Endless Outdoor Adventures Await
From stunning hiking trails to sprawling lakes and fishing spots, Orlando offers a lot to those who enjoy the great outdoors. Follow our Westgate Resorts Travel blog for more insider tips into this exciting city.
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* Aside from Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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