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Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report: Water Levels, Weather, and What's Biting!
Howdy folks, Captain Joe here, your guide to all things fishy on Lake Okeechobee! Let's dive right into what's happening on the Big O.Lake Okeechobee Water Levels - June 29, 2025
As of June 29, 2025, Lake Okeechobee's water level sits at **11.07 feet NGVD**. Now, that's **2.36 feet LOWER** than it was this time last year (13.43 feet) and a whopping **3.56 feet LOWER** than two years ago (14.63 feet). Sheesh, feels like we're shrinking! That's also **2.30 feet below** the period of record average. What does this mean for you, the avid angler? Well, lower water levels can concentrate the fish, making them easier to find... or spook 'em into hiding! It all depends on how you play your cards.Okeechobee Inflows and Outflows
* **Total Inflows:** 476 cfs (cubic feet per second) * **Total Outflows:** -151 cfs (that's right, negative!) Looks like we're losing more water than we're gaining, folks. Keep an eye on those levels!Weather Forecast and Fishing Impact
Now, let's peek at what Mother Nature has in store for us this week. Remember, these temperatures are in Celsius, so I've converted them to Fahrenheit for ya. * **June 30, 2025:** Heavy intensity rain, Wind from the WSW at 16.4 mph, gusts up to 25.1 mph. High of 88°F, Low of 72°F. * **July 1, 2025:** Moderate rain, Wind from the SSE at 19.1 mph, gusts up to 31.3 mph. High of 90°F, Low of 70°F. * **July 2, 2025:** Light rain, Wind from the SSW at 15.1 mph, gusts up to 24.0 mph. High of 92°F, Low of 73°F. * **July 3, 2025:** Light rain, Wind from the SSE at 11.9 mph, gusts up to 18.1 mph. High of 90°F, Low of 76°F. * **July 4, 2025:** Moderate rain, Wind from the ESE at 12.9 mph, gusts up to 12.3 mph. High of 91°F, Low of 76°F. * **July 5, 2025:** Light rain, Wind from the S at 10.7 mph, gusts up to 15.0 mph. High of 88°F, Low of 76°F. * **July 6, 2025:** Light rain, Wind from the SSE at 8.9 mph, gusts up to 13.7 mph. High of 90°F, Low of 75°F. * **July 7, 2025:** Light rain, Wind from the ESE at 11.3 mph, gusts up to 17.7 mph. High of 91°F, Low of 74°F. **What this means for the fish:** * **Bass:** With the lower water and incoming rain, bass will likely be holding tight to cover. Target areas with vegetation, docks, and submerged structure. Topwater lures early and late in the day could be dynamite! As the sun gets higher, switch to flipping jigs or Texas-rigged worms into the thick stuff. * **Crappie:** Crappie will be seeking refuge from the sun and rain around deeper structures and submerged trees. Minnows and jigs fished around these areas should produce. * **Bluegill/Shellcracker:** These panfish will be bedding in shallower areas, especially with the consistent rain. Crickets and worms under a bobber are your best bet for a tasty fish fry. * **Catfish:** Catfish love a good rain! Look for them in areas with moving water, like canals and creek mouths. Stink bait, cut bait, and live bait will all work well.Captain Joe's Hot Tips for Okeechobee Fishing
* **Low Water = Weed Edges:** With the lake down, the weed edges are more defined. Bass and other predators will be patrolling these edges, looking for an easy meal. * **Rainy Days = Topwater Time:** Overcast skies and rain create perfect conditions for topwater fishing. Don't be afraid to throw a buzzbait, frog, or walking bait! * **Stay Hydrated!** Even with the rain, it's still hot out there. Drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen. Alright folks, that's the scoop from Lake Okeechobee. Get out there, catch some fish, and remember to always practice responsible angling! Tight lines and y'all be good to each other! -Captain Joe
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