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Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report: Water Levels and Weather Update (June 9, 2025)

Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report: Water Levels and Weather Update (June 9, 2025)

Howdy, anglers! Captain Joe here, your trusty guide to all things Lake Okeechobee. Let’s dive into the latest lake conditions and what it means for your next fishing adventure. Remember, even a blind squirrel finds a nut sometimes, and even a bad day fishin’ is better than a good day workin’!

Lake Okeechobee Water Level

As of June 8, 2025, Lake Okeechobee’s water level is at 11.16 feet NGVD. Now, that’s the official elevation, but what does it *mean*? Well, compared to last year (June 8, 2024) when the lake was at 12.65 feet, we’re about 1.49 feet lower. And if we rewind two years to June 8, 2023, when the lake was at a whopping 14.01 feet, we’re a whole 2.85 feet lower! That’s a significant difference, folks. It’s also below the period of record average of 13.14 feet by 1.98 feet.

What does this mean for fishing? Lower water levels can concentrate the fish in certain areas, making them easier to target. However, it can also make navigation a bit trickier, so pay attention to your charts and be mindful of shallow spots. The navigation depth for Route 1 is 5.10 feet and Route 2 is 3.30 feet.

Inflows and Outflows

Currently, total inflows to the lake are at 551 cfs (cubic feet per second), with the S65EX1 contributing the most at 451 cfs. Outflows are at -226 cfs, primarily through the S308 structure. The lake is losing more water than it’s gaining, contributing to the lower level.

Weather Forecast and Fishing Impact

Now, let’s talk about the weather, because as any seasoned angler knows, the weather can make or break a fishing trip. Here’s what the forecast looks like for the next week:

June 9, 2025: Light rain, with temperatures ranging from 76°F to 92°F (24.57°C to 33.24°C). Wind from the Southeast (144 degrees) at about 15 mph (6.8 m/s), with gusts up to 17 mph (7.58 m/s).
June 10, 2025: Light rain, with temperatures ranging from 76°F to 91°F (24.54°C to 32.97°C). Wind from the East-Southeast (118 degrees) at about 11 mph (4.87 m/s), with gusts up to 20 mph (9.1 m/s).
June 11, 2025: Moderate rain, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 92°F (24.01°C to 33.4°C). Wind from the East-Southeast (102 degrees) at about 12 mph (5.27 m/s), with gusts up to 22 mph (9.97 m/s).
June 12, 2025: Light rain, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 92°F (23.83°C to 33.19°C). Wind from the East (92 degrees) at about 11 mph (4.89 m/s), with gusts up to 20 mph (9.09 m/s).
June 13, 2025: Light rain, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 93°F (24.77°C to 33.77°C). Wind from the East (93 degrees) at about 12 mph (5.56 m/s), with gusts up to 21 mph (9.46 m/s).
June 14, 2025: Light rain, with temperatures ranging from 76°F to 89°F (24.39°C to 31.5°C). Wind from the East (94 degrees) at about 13 mph (5.89 m/s), with gusts up to 22 mph (9.97 m/s).
June 15, 2025: Light rain, with temperatures ranging from 76°F to 90°F (24.21°C to 32.41°C). Wind from the East (82 degrees) at about 12 mph (5.3 m/s), with gusts up to 20 mph (9.16 m/s).
June 16, 2025: Broken clouds, with temperatures ranging from 76°F to 91°F (24.33°C to 32.97°C). Wind from the East (99 degrees) at about 12 mph (5.23 m/s), with gusts up to 21 mph (9.48 m/s).

With the consistent light to moderate rain and easterly winds, expect the fish to be a bit more active, especially early in the morning and late in the afternoon. The broken clouds on June 16th might provide a welcome break and could trigger some feeding activity.

Target Species and Fishing Tips

Largemouth Bass: With the lower water levels, focus on areas with submerged vegetation and structure. The consistent rain should keep the bass active. Use topwater lures early and late in the day, and switch to soft plastics and crankbaits as the sun gets higher.
Crappie (Speckled Perch): Look for crappie around bridge pilings, submerged trees, and deeper channels. Minnows and jigs are your best bet.
Bluegill and Shellcracker: These panfish will be bedding in the shallows. Crickets and worms are irresistible.
Catfish: With the rain, catfish will be scavenging for food. Use stinkbaits, cut bait, and live bait near the bottom.

Captain Joe’s Final Thoughts

Alright folks, that’s the scoop for now. Keep an eye on the weather, be mindful of the water levels, and most importantly, have fun out there! Remember, even if the fish aren’t biting, you’re still on Lake Okeechobee, and that’s a pretty good place to be. Tight lines and happy fishing!

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