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Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report: August 18, 2025 – Captain Joe’s Insights
Howdy folks, Captain Joe here, bringing you your daily dose of what’s happening on Lake Okeechobee. Been fishin’ and huntin’ these waters for longer than I care to admit, and I’m here to share what I’m seeing.
Lake Okeechobee Water Levels and Conditions
The latest U.S. Army Corps of Engineers report shows the lake level at 12.20 feet NGVD. That’s down a hair from yesterday’s 12.21 feet. We’re also sitting a good bit lower than last year (14.05 feet) and two years ago (15.36 feet) at this time. The average for this time of year is 14.03 feet, so we’re about 1.83 feet below average. Keep an eye on those levels, folks, as they can change quick!
Here’s a quick look at the inflows and outflows:
- Total Inflows: 2284 cfs
- Total Outflows: 312 cfs
Weather Impact on Fishing Today
The forecast for today, August 19th, calls for rain. The forecast is for moderate rain with about 7.31mm expected. The wind will be blowing from the southeast (32 degrees) at around 13 mph, with gusts up to 18 mph. The high for today is expected to be around 91 degrees Fahrenheit, with a low around 78. The rain and wind could make for a tougher day on the water, but don’t let that discourage you.
How This Impacts Your Fishing Trip
Bass Fishing
With the lake level being lower than average, the Kissimmee grass and other vegetation are more exposed. This can concentrate the bass in certain areas. Look for bass around the edges of the grass lines and near any submerged structure. The rain could help to cool the water down a bit, which might make the bass more active. Topwater lures early in the morning and late in the evening could be productive. As the day warms up, switch to flipping jigs or using Texas-rigged worms in the thicker cover. Focus on areas with good water flow.
Crappie Fishing
Crappie will likely be holding around deeper structure and submerged brush piles. With the wind, it might be a bit tougher to fish jigs under a cork, so consider using heavier jigs or minnows. Look for cleaner water if possible, as the rain can stir things up.
Catfish Fishing
Catfish tend to like a little bit of rain, so today could be a good day to target them. Use stink baits, nightcrawlers, or cut bait fished on the bottom. Focus on areas near creek mouths or canals where the water is flowing in. The wind might make it a bit challenging to anchor, so be sure to choose your spot carefully.
Captain Joe’s Final Thoughts
Even with the rain and wind, there’s always a chance to catch some fish on Okeechobee. Be prepared for the weather, fish accordingly, and most importantly, be safe out there. Remember to check back on Monday for the full weekly report. Tight lines, y’all!
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