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Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report – May 8, 2025 – Captain Joe

Howdy folks, Captain Joe here with your daily Lake Okeechobee fishing report. Been fishin’ these waters for longer than I care to admit, and I’m here to give you the straight scoop.

Lake Level and Water Conditions

The lake level is currently at 11.08 feet. That’s down a hair from yesterday’s 11.09 feet. We’re still significantly below where we were last year (13.93 feet) and two years ago (14.11 feet) this time. The average for this time of year is 13.43 feet, so we’re sitting about 2.35 feet below average. Keep an eye on those levels, folks, as they directly impact where the fish are holdin’.

Weather Impact on Fishing

Looks like we’ve got some light rain in the forecast. The wind is comin’ out of the southeast at about 17 mph, with gusts up to 26 mph. The high for today is expected to be around 89 degrees Fahrenheit, with a low around 72. That rain and wind could stir things up a bit, but it also might push some fish into sheltered areas.

Fishing Forecast

Bass Fishing

With the lake level being lower than average, focus on areas with submerged vegetation and structure. The light rain and wind could make for some good topwater action early in the morning and late in the evening. Try workin’ those grassy areas with a frog or a buzzbait. As the day warms up, switch to flippin’ jigs and worms around heavy cover. Look for bass to be staging near spawning areas, even though the spawn is mostly over. They’re still hungry!

Crappie Fishing

Crappie will likely be holding around deeper structure and submerged brush piles. Minnows and jigs are always a good bet. The wind might make it a little tougher to present your bait accurately, so consider using a heavier jighead to keep your line tight. Look for areas where the wind is pushing baitfish – the crappie won’t be far behind.

Bluegill Fishing

Bluegill are always a fun target, and they should be active in the shallows, especially around lily pads and reeds. Crickets and worms are the classic baits, and a simple bobber rig is all you need. The rain might encourage them to move into slightly deeper water, but they’ll still be relatively shallow.

Inflows and Outflows

Total inflows to the lake are at 121 cfs, while outflows are significantly higher at 2537 cfs. This means the lake is still losing water. Keep an eye on these numbers, as they can influence water clarity and fish behavior.

Captain Joe’s Tip of the Day

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different baits and techniques. The fish on Okeechobee can be finicky, and what worked yesterday might not work today. Pay attention to the conditions and adjust your approach accordingly. And most importantly, have fun out there!

Tight lines, y’all!

– Captain Joe

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