“`html

Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report – June 17, 2025 – With Captain Joe

Howdy folks, Captain Joe here, bringing you your daily dose of what’s happening on our beloved Lake Okeechobee. Been fishin’ and huntin’ these parts 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 data shows Lake Okeechobee’s water level at 11.13 feet NGVD. That’s down from last year’s 13.39 feet and even further from the year before at 14.12 feet. We’re also sitting a bit below the historical average for this time of year. The lake level has dropped slightly over the past few days, about .04 feet since yesterday.

Here’s a quick look at the inflow and outflow situation:

• Total Inflows: 294 cfs
• Total Outflows: 490 cfs

Weather Impact on Fishing Today

Looks like we’ve got some light rain in the forecast for today, June 18th, with about 0.57mm expected. The wind is coming from the east at around 12.6 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. Temperatures will be around 87°F during the day and dropping to about 80°F at night.

Fishing Forecast for Lake Okeechobee

Given the current lake levels and the weather forecast, here’s how I see the fishing shaping up today:

Bass Fishing

The slightly lower water levels might concentrate the bass around remaining vegetation and structures. With the light rain and wind, topwater baits early in the morning could be productive. Focus on areas with hydrilla, Kissimmee grass, and lily pads. Later in the day, switch to flipping jigs and worms around heavier cover. Look for areas where the wind is pushing baitfish.

Key Areas: Look to the North Shore around the Kissimmee River and the South end near Clewiston.

Best Baits: Topwater frogs, spinnerbaits, jigs, and Texas-rigged worms.

Crappie Fishing (Speckled Perch)

Crappie fishing might be a bit tougher with the wind. Try fishing deeper brush piles and submerged structures with minnows or jigs. The rain might encourage them to move shallower, so keep an eye out for that.

Key Areas: Harney Pond and near the bridges.

Best Baits: Live minnows, small jigs, and crappie nibbles.

Catfish Fishing

Catfish should be biting well, especially with the rain. Fish the deeper channels and around submerged timber with cut bait, stink bait, or live bait. The wind might make it a bit challenging to hold your position, so anchor securely.

Key Areas: Rim Canal and the deeper areas near Clewiston.

Best Baits: Cut shad, stink bait, and nightcrawlers.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the fishing should be decent today, but be prepared to adjust your tactics based on the weather conditions. Remember to stay safe out there, watch the weather, and tight lines!

Until next time,

Captain Joe

OkeechobeeFishingReport.com – Your source for Lake Okeechobee fishing information.

“`