Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report – April 26, 2025
Howdy folks, Captain Joe here with your Lake Okeechobee fishing report for today, April 26, 2025. The lake’s been seein’ some changes lately, so let’s dive into how that’s affectin’ our fishin’.
Lake Okeechobee Water Levels
The lake’s current elevation is sittin’ at 11.52 feet NGVD. That’s a good bit lower than last year’s 14.44 feet and the year before at 14.30 feet on this same date. It’s also considerably below the historical average for this time of year (13.74 feet). This lower water level concentrates the fish and can make for some exciting fishing if you know where to look.
Weather Forecast and Impact on Fishing
Today’s weather is lookin’ clear and sunny with a light northeast wind blowin’ around 6 mph and gusting to near 10 mph. Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 85°F, with a low of 70°F. These clear skies and warm temperatures should make for a pleasant day out on the water. The light wind will make it easy to fish with lighter tackle and finesse presentations.
Fishing Forecast
With the lower water levels and clear conditions, sight fishing for largemouth bass should be productive. Look for them around the remaining vegetation and along the edges of the drop-offs. Topwater lures, swimbaits, and creature baits should all be effective. The lower water levels will also concentrate the crappie and bluegill, making them easier to target. Look for them near submerged structure and deeper holes. Small jigs, minnows, and crickets will be your best bet.
Largemouth Bass
The lower water levels will concentrate bass in key areas, making them more aggressive. Focus your efforts around remaining vegetation, drop-offs, and any available cover. Topwater frogs, swim jigs, and flipping/pitching creature baits should entice bites.
Crappie
Crappie will be holding tight to any available structure in the shallower water. Minnows fished under a bobber or small jigs tipped with a minnow will be the most effective techniques.
Bluegill
Bluegill will be congregating in similar areas as crappie. Crickets, redworms, or small beetle spins will be the best baits for these panfish.
That’s the Okeechobee fishing report for today. Get out there and enjoy the beautiful weather and tight lines!
