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Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report – July 1, 2025 – Captain Joe

Howdy folks, Captain Joe here, bringing you your daily Lake Okeechobee fishing report. Been fishin’ these waters for longer than I care to admit, and I’m here to tell you what’s bitin’ and what ain’t.

Lake Okeechobee Water Levels and Conditions

As of today, July 1, 2025, Lake Okeechobee’s water level is at 11.20 feet. That’s down a bit from last year (13.49 feet) and two years ago (14.65 feet). We’re also sitting a good 2.21 feet below the historical average for this time of year. The lake level has risen slightly in the last few days, up from 10.97 feet a week ago.

The inflows are at 1097 cfs and outflows are at -915 cfs. Pan evaporation is at 0.12 inches.

Weather Impact on Fishing

The forecast for today, July 2nd, calls for rain. We’re lookin’ at about 7.25mm of rain (0.29 inches). The wind will be blowin’ from the southeast at around 5.33 m/s (12 mph), with gusts up to 7.16 m/s (16 mph). Temperatures will be in the high 80s (around 86°F) during the day and low 70s (around 74°F) at night.

Fishing Forecast

With the lake level still relatively low and the rain coming in, here’s how I reckon it’ll affect the fishin’:

Bass Fishing

The bass fishing should be decent with the rain. Look for the bass to be holding around structure in the Kissimmee River and near the grassy edges. Topwater lures early in the morning and late in the evening could be productive. With the wind, spinnerbaits and crankbaits will also be good choices. Focus on areas with moving water, as the rain will bring in fresh oxygen.

Key Areas: Kissimmee River, Grassy edges near Harney Pond, and any canals with inflow.

Top Lures: Topwater frogs, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and Texas-rigged worms.

Crappie Fishing

Crappie fishing might be a bit tougher with the wind, but they’ll still be around. Target submerged structure and brush piles in the deeper parts of the lake. Minnows and jigs are your best bet. The rain might push them a little deeper, so adjust your presentation accordingly.

Key Areas: Deeper channels, around the bridges, and any submerged structure.

Top Lures: Live minnows, crappie jigs (white, chartreuse).

Bluegill Fishing

Bluegill fishing should be good, especially after the rain. They’ll be feeding on insects washed into the lake. Crickets and worms under a bobber are always a good choice. Look for them around lily pads and other vegetation in the shallows.

Key Areas: Lily pads, shallow vegetation, and canals.

Top Baits: Crickets, worms, small jigs.

General Tips for Lake Okeechobee Fishing

• Stay Hydrated: It’s hot out there, folks. Bring plenty of water.
• Sun Protection: Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Check the Weather: Conditions can change quickly on the lake.
• Be Patient: Fishing ain’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.

That’s all for today’s report. Tight lines and happy fishin’!

– Captain Joe

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