Episodios

  • Fishing on Fire at Lake Okeechobee with Massive Bass and Crappie Catches

    Fishing on Fire at Lake Okeechobee with Massive Bass and Crappie Catches
    May 25 2025
    Good morning anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Sunday fishing update for the Big O.

    We're looking at another gorgeous morning out on Lake Okeechobee with temps starting in the low 70s and expected to climb into the mid-80s by afternoon. The sun rose at about 6:45 AM and you'll have good fishing light until sunset around 8:05 PM. Winds are staying nice and light today, making for perfect conditions all across the lake.

    Water levels continue their steady decline, now sitting at 10.93 feet, down from 10.95 feet just yesterday. We're well below the typical May average, which has really concentrated the fish and created some exceptional fishing opportunities.

    Let me tell you folks, the bass fishing remains absolutely on fire! We're consistently seeing 5-8 pounders daily, with some boats reporting 50-100 fish days. Several trophy largemouths over 8 pounds were landed this past week. If you're after bass, focus on the outer edges of reed lines and isolated vegetation patches where they're holding tight with these lower water levels.

    The crappie bite has been equally impressive. Many anglers are reporting 100-150 fish days with some beautiful specimens in the 12-14 inch range, weighing up to two pounds. These slabs are really putting up a fight!

    For bass, I'm having great success with large plastic worms in junebug and red shad colors, slow-rolled spinnerbaits along drop-offs, and topwater frogs early morning near vegetation. For crappie, small minnows and jigs in chartreuse or white have been producing limits in no time.

    Hot spots this week include the Harney Pond Canal area where the lower water has created some excellent channels, and the Kissimmee River mouth where bass are stacking up. The north end of the lake near Indian Prairie Canal has been producing some monster catches as well.

    Local guides like Captain Bill and Mike have been putting clients on fish consistently, with many folks limiting out before noon. One fella caught the biggest bass of his life last week – a solid 7-pounder!

    Remember, with these dropping water levels, be extra cautious about navigation. Some normally passable areas are getting skinny, so keep an eye on your depth finder.

    That's your Lake O update for today, Sunday, May 25th. Get out there and wet a line – the fish are biting! This is Artificial Lure signing off until next time. Tight lines, y'all!
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    3 m
  • "Stellar Bass and Slab Crappie Bite Lights Up Lake Okeechobee"

    "Stellar Bass and Slab Crappie Bite Lights Up Lake Okeechobee"
    May 24 2025
    Good morning anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Saturday fishing update for the Big O.

    We've got another gorgeous day ahead on Lake Okeechobee with temperatures starting in the low 70s this morning and climbing to the upper 80s by afternoon. Sunrise was at 6:41 AM and you'll have plenty of fishing light until sunset at 8:10 PM. Winds are staying nice and light today, making for excellent conditions across the lake.

    Water levels continue their steady decline, now sitting just above 11 feet, which is lower than our typical May average. This has been a blessing in disguise, folks! The falling water has concentrated both bass and crappie into predictable areas, creating some absolutely stellar fishing opportunities.

    Let me tell you, the bass fishing has been nothing short of spectacular lately! We're consistently seeing 5-8 pounders coming to the boat, with some guides reporting 50-100 fish days. Several trophy largemouths over 8 pounds have been landed this past week, including one fella who caught a 7-pounder that was the biggest bass of his life!

    The crappie bite has been absolutely on fire too! Many boats have been bringing in 100-150 fish days with some real slabs in the mix - we're talking 12-14 inch beauties weighing up to two pounds each. That's some serious table fare, y'all!

    For bass fishing, try working the outside grass lines with large plastic worms, swim jigs, and lipless crankbaits. The fish are holding tight to structure as the water drops, so target isolated patches of vegetation, especially around deeper holes.

    For you crappie enthusiasts, minnows under a float are still producing the best numbers, but don't sleep on small jigs in chartreuse, white, or pink if you're looking to avoid constantly rebaiting.

    Hot spots this week include Harney Pond Canal, the Kissimmee River mouth, and the northwest side of the lake around Indian Prairie Canal. The areas around Observation Shoal have also been particularly productive as the fish congregate in the remaining deeper pockets.

    Remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen - it's getting hot out there fast, folks! And if you're hiring a guide, book with Captain Mike or Captain Bill - both have been putting clients on exceptional fish this past month.

    That's all for today's report. Until next time, this is Artificial Lure reminding you that a bad day fishing still beats a good day working! Tight lines, y'all!
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    3 m
  • "Slay the Big O: Phenomenal Bass & Crappie Bite on Lake Okeechobee"

    "Slay the Big O: Phenomenal Bass & Crappie Bite on Lake Okeechobee"
    May 23 2025
    This is Artificial Lure with your Lake Okeechobee fishing report for May 23, 2025. We are sitting in the thick of prime fishing season and the action has been outstanding all around the Big O.

    Today is starting with temperatures in the low 70s and it will warm up to the mid-80s by the afternoon. Winds are mellow and the weather is clear, making for perfect conditions to wet a line. Sunrise hit at 6:45 AM and sunset will be around 8:05 PM, so there is plenty of daylight to chase those trophies[4].

    Water levels remain just above 11 feet, which is a bit below the usual for late May. These falling levels have pulled both bass and crappie into tighter, more predictable spots along the lake's outer grass lines and near structure[1][3][4]. Be careful navigating—stick to the outside grass lines where it's deeper, since rocks can tear up your lower unit if you aren't careful[5].

    Bass fishing has been phenomenal. Boats are regularly reporting 50 to 100 fish days with lots of quality largemouth in the 5 to 8 pound range, and several trophy-sized bass—some over 8 pounds—caught just this week[4][5]. Most of the action is coming on soft plastics like Zoom Speed Worms, Senkos, and creature baits in watermelon red and junebug. For those who like to throw artificial, spinnerbaits and chatterbaits along the grass edges are also producing well, especially early and late in the day[4].

    The crappie bite is still hot, too. Anglers are pulling in limits with some slabs reaching 12 to 14 inches and up to 2 pounds. Jigs tipped with minnows are the ticket, fished around the thicker vegetation and in the shallower pockets as the water continues to recede[2][4].

    Live wild shiners are always a top choice for bigger bass, especially if you're after that trophy bite. But don’t overlook the action you’ll get working soft plastics through the holes in the grass mats or along the outside edges.

    A couple current hot spots I recommend: try the outside grass lines near Harney Pond and the Monkey Box area, which have both been consistent for good numbers and bigger fish. The north shore around Tin House Cove is another steady producer, especially if you’re targeting crappie or working for bass early in the morning before the sun gets high[4][5].

    All in all, today’s conditions are just about perfect for anglers looking to get in on the action. Stay safe, watch those shallows, and enjoy some of the best fishing Florida has to offer. Tight lines, and I’ll see you out on the water.
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    3 m
  • Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report: Bass Bonanza and Crappie Crush on the Big O

    Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report: Bass Bonanza and Crappie Crush on the Big O
    May 21 2025
    Hey folks! Artificial Lure here with your Lake Okeechobee fishing report for this fine Wednesday morning, May 21, 2025.

    The big news on the Big O is that water levels are continuing to fall, which has been happening for several months now. We're sitting at about 12.5 feet above sea level, and this dropping water has created some incredible fishing opportunities as the bass and crappie are concentrating in specific areas.

    The weather today is shaping up to be a typical late May day in South Florida - warm and a bit humid, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen if you're heading out. With the lower water levels, be extra careful navigating - stick to the outside grass lines where there's more water and fewer rock formations. I've seen too many lower units torn up by folks who don't know where they're running.

    Bass fishing has been absolutely dynamite! Captains around the lake are reporting daily catches in the 50-100 fish range, with quality bass in the 5-8 pound class being common. The dropping water has really concentrated these fish, making them easier to target.

    The crappie (or speck) fishing has been on fire too! Recent reports mention 100-150 fish days with some real slabs in the 12-14 inch range weighing up to two pounds. That's some serious filling for the freezer!

    For baits, I'm hearing that wild shiners are still the go-to for trophy bass, but artificial lures (my namesake!) like swim jigs, speed worms, and flukes in white, chart, and junebug colors are working great too. For the crappie, small minnows or jigs tipped with minnows around the deeper vegetation edges are the ticket.

    Hot spots this week include the outer edges of Observation Shoal, the Kissimmee River mouth, and the areas around Bird Island. The western side of the lake has been particularly productive as fish move to deeper water with the falling levels.

    If you're new to the lake, remember that navigation can be tricky with the lower water. Consider hiring a guide like Captain Joe, Captain Angie Douthit, or Captain Mark Shepard to show you the ropes and put you on fish.

    Remember folks, the declining water is actually good for the lake's health - it allows vegetation to grow, which improves water clarity and creates better habitat for our beloved gamefish.

    Tight lines and good fishing to all of you heading out this week! This is Artificial Lure signing off from the Big O, where the bass are hungry and the living is easy.
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    3 m
  • Bumper bass and slab crappie bite on Lake Okeechobee, expert tips for a killer day on the water

    Bumper bass and slab crappie bite on Lake Okeechobee, expert tips for a killer day on the water
    May 19 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Lake Okeechobee fishing report for this fine Monday morning, May 19, 2025.

    We're looking at another beautiful day on the Big O with temperatures expected to climb into the low 80s by afternoon. Sunrise was at 6:42 AM, and you'll have good fishing light until sunset at 8:07 PM. Winds are staying light today, making for perfect conditions across the lake.

    Water levels continue their steady decline, now sitting around 11 feet, which is below our typical May average. This drop has concentrated the fish into predictable areas, creating some truly exceptional fishing opportunities.

    Let me tell you folks, the bass fishing has been absolutely on fire! We're seeing consistent catches of 5-8 pounders daily, with some boats reporting 50-100 fish days. Several trophy largemouths over 8 pounds were landed this past week. If you're chasing that wall-hanger, now's the time to get out there!

    The crappie bite has been equally impressive, with numerous reports of 100-150 fish days featuring beautiful 12-14 inch slabs weighing up to two pounds. This is prime time to fill your cooler if you're targeting these tasty panfish.

    For bass, I'm finding success working the outside grass lines with large plastic worms and topwater frogs early in the morning. As the day heats up, switch to deeper structure with crankbaits and jigs. For crappie, minnows and small jigs in the lily pad fields are producing limits.

    Hot spots this week include the Kissimmee River mouth, where the water flow is concentrating baitfish, and the western shoreline from Clewiston up toward Observation Shoal. The rim canal has also been producing steady action for those looking to stay in protected water.

    Word of caution - be careful running around if you don't know the lake. With water levels down, navigation can be tricky. Stay in the marked channels and watch for those rock formations that can tear up a lower unit quicker than you can say "fish on!"

    That's all for today, folks. Remember, if you need a guide to show you the ropes, plenty of us locals are ready to put you on the fish. Tight lines and see you on the water!
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    3 m
  • Bumper Crappie and Trophy Largemouth Haul on Lake Okeechobee

    Bumper Crappie and Trophy Largemouth Haul on Lake Okeechobee
    May 18 2025
    Good morning anglers this is Artificial Lure bringing you your May 18th Lake Okeechobee fishing report. We are waking up to a beautiful morning on the Big O with temperatures heading for the low 80s by midday. Winds are light so you can expect calm water across most of the lake.

    Sunrise hit at 6:47 AM and you will have fishing light until sunset at 8:03 PM. Water levels are still slowly falling and are now just above 11 feet, which is lower than average for May. This has pulled both bass and crappie into tighter groups, and the bite has been nothing short of outstanding all week long.

    Bass fishing is red hot right now. Reports are showing steady catches of 5 to 8 pound largemouths, with some trophy fish over 8 pounds landed in the last few days. Some boats are seeing up to 100 fish in a day. The FWC TrophyCatch program has tallied up over 400 lunker bass already this season. If you are looking for numbers and size, you will not be disappointed.

    Crappie anglers are grinning ear to ear with 100 to 150 fish days and plenty of big slabs in the 12 to 14 inch range, some pushing two pounds. This is top notch crappie fishing and a great chance to fill your cooler for a fish fry.

    For best results on bass, go with soft plastics like watermelon red or junebug worms, flukes or creature baits fished in and around hydrilla and reed patches. Early in the day, try topwater frogs and spooks for explosive strikes. Live wild shiners are always a slam dunk if you want to hook into the biggest fish of the day.

    Crappie are biting best on live minnows under the bobber and small jigs in white or chartreuse colors. Hit the edges of the grass lines or the mouths of canals, especially where moving water is bringing in bait.

    A couple of hot spots this week are the Tin House Cove area and the rim canal near Harney Pond. These places have both been producing big numbers and quality fish for bass and crappie alike.

    Tides are not a huge factor on Lake O, but wind-driven current around the lake edges can really stack the fish, so keep an eye out for moving water.

    All in all, weather and fishing conditions could not be better for a day on the water. Tight lines and good luck out there, folks.
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    3 m
  • Big O Fishing Report - Stellar Bass, Crappie & Bluegill Action on Lake Okeechobee

    Big O Fishing Report - Stellar Bass, Crappie & Bluegill Action on Lake Okeechobee
    May 17 2025
    Hey there, folks! Artificial Lure here with your Saturday morning fishing report for the Big O on May 17th, 2025.

    We're looking at another beautiful day on Lake Okeechobee with temperatures expected to hit the low 80s by afternoon. The sun rose at 6:45 AM, and you'll have good fishing light until sunset at 8:07 PM. Winds are staying light today at around 5-7 mph, creating near-perfect conditions across the lake.

    Water levels have been steadily falling for months now, currently sitting just above 11 feet, which is below our typical May average. This drop has concentrated the fish into predictable areas, and let me tell you, the fishing has been absolutely phenomenal!

    The bass bite remains red hot! We're consistently seeing 5-8 pounders coming to the boat, with many anglers reporting 50-100 fish days. Several trophy largemouths over 8 pounds were landed this past week. Your best bet for these chunky bass has been flipping heavy cover with creature baits or working topwater frogs early morning along the edges of hydrilla and peppergrass. The Rim Canal and Grassy Island have been particularly productive for bass.

    The crappie fishing has been on fire too! We've had reports of 100-150 fish days with some beautiful slabs in the 12-14 inch range weighing up to two pounds. Small minnows and jigs in chartreuse or white have been the ticket. Focus on the deeper holes in the Kissimmee River or around the submerged brush piles near Harney Pond for your best shot at filling the cooler.

    For you bluegill enthusiasts, the action is heating up too, with crickets and red wigglers producing limits of hand-sized fish along the north shore vegetation lines.

    Hot spots this week include Observation Shoal for those monster bass, especially during the first few hours after sunrise. Eagle Bay has been producing consistent numbers as well. For crappie, head to King's Bar or the mouth of the Kissimmee River where the deeper channels are holding schools of these tasty panfish.

    Remember, with water levels down, be extra cautious navigating the lake, especially in the western and southern sections where some underwater hazards might be lurking closer to the surface than usual.

    That's the report for today, May 17th. This is Artificial Lure saying tight lines, wet nets, and I'll see you on the water!
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    3 m
  • Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report - Epic Bass & Crappie Bite on the Big O

    Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report - Epic Bass & Crappie Bite on the Big O
    May 16 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Lake Okeechobee fishing report for this beautiful Friday morning, May 16, 2025.

    We've got another gorgeous day shaping up on the Big O with temperatures expected to climb into the mid-80s by afternoon. Water levels have been slowly falling for months, which has concentrated the fish in certain areas and made for some fantastic action lately.

    The bass fishing has been nothing short of spectacular! Many anglers have been reporting excellent catches, with some lunkers in the 7-pound range being landed. Just last week, we had a gentleman catch the biggest bass of his life - a whopping 7-pounder! The bass are hitting hard on plastic worms and topwater lures early in the morning, especially around the vegetation edges.

    The crappie bite has been absolutely on fire in recent weeks! We've seen many 100-150 fish days with some really nice 12-14 inch specimens weighing up to two pounds. If you're targeting these tasty panfish, try using small jigs or minnows around deeper structure.

    For those looking for hot spots, I'd recommend checking out the areas around Observation Shoal and the Kissimmee River mouth. The vegetation edges near Harney Pond Canal have also been producing consistently good numbers of bass. For crappie, focus on the deeper channels and structure.

    Sunrise today was around 6:40 AM and sunset will be approximately 8:10 PM, giving you plenty of daylight hours on the water. The early morning and evening hours have been most productive, so plan accordingly.

    Best baits right now include wild shiners for those trophy bass, while artificial lure enthusiasts should focus on spinner baits, plastic worms in june bug or watermelon red colors, and topwater frogs around vegetation. For crappie, small jigs in chartreuse or white have been working wonders.

    The guides have been keeping busy, with Captains Mike and Bill putting clients on fish consistently. If you're new to the lake, booking a trip with a local guide can really help you dial in on the action.

    Remember folks, the fishing pressure has been relatively light during weekdays, so if you can swing it, try to get out there before the weekend crowds arrive. The fish are biting, the weather is perfect, and Lake Okeechobee is showing why it's known as the bass fishing capital of the South!

    This is Artificial Lure signing off until next time. Tight lines, y'all!
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    3 m
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