Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report – April 27, 2025

Howdy folks, Captain Joe here with your Lake Okeechobee fishing report for today, April 27, 2025. The lake is sittin’ at 11.48 feet above sea level, a good bit lower than last year’s 14.39 and the year before at 14.31 on this date. She’s also down from the historical average for this time of year.

Weather Forecast and Impact on Fishing

The weatherman’s callin’ for clear skies today with a high of 87°F (30.5°C) and a low of 72°F (22°C). Wind’s gonna be outta the east at a gentle 15 mph (6.7 m/s), gusting to 25 mph (11.2 m/s). These clear skies and warm temperatures mean the bass will likely be seekin’ shade in the mornin’ hours. Look for ’em around the thicker vegetation and deeper holes. As the day heats up, they’ll move deeper or stay put in the shade.

Bass Fishing

With the lower water levels, focus your efforts on the remaining vegetation and drop-offs. Topwater frogs and swimbaits can be effective early in the day, while flipping and pitching creature baits or Texas-rigged worms will work well around the thicker cover. Don’t forget your shiners – live bait is always a good option on Okeechobee.

Crappie Fishing

The crappie bite should be pickin’ up as the water warms. Look for ’em around submerged brush piles and other structure. Minnows and small jigs tipped with minnows are your best bet. Spider rigging can be a productive technique, or you can try vertical jigging.

Bluegill Fishing

Bluegill are always a fun option on Lake Okeechobee. They’ll be hangin’ out around the shallows and vegetation, especially in the warmer parts of the day. Crickets, redworms, and small beetle spins are all good choices for bluegill.

That’s the report for today, folks. Get out there and enjoy some time on the Big O! Tight lines!