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Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report – July 14, 2025 – Captain Joe

Howdy folks, Captain Joe here, bringing you your daily dose of what’s happening on Lake Okeechobee. Been fishin’ these waters for longer than I care to admit, and I’m here to tell you what to expect out there today.

Lake Level and Conditions

The lake level is currently sitting at 11.67 feet. That’s about 1.86 feet lower than this time last year (13.53 feet) and a good 3.21 feet lower than two years ago (14.88 feet). We’re also about 1.91 feet below the historical average for this time of year. The lake is definitely lower than we’d like to see, but it is what it is.

Navigation depth on Route 1 is approximately 5.61 feet and Route 2 is 3.81 feet, so be mindful of that if you’re running a bigger boat. Always pays to be careful out there.

Weather Impact

Looks like we’ve got some light rain in the forecast for today. The weather service is calling for about 0.66 inches of rain, with winds coming out of the Southeast at around 17.4 miles per hour, gusting up to 25.6 miles per hour. The temperature will be around 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fishing Forecast

With the lake level being lower and the rain coming in, here’s how I see the fishing shaping up today:

Bass Fishing

The lower water levels concentrate the bass in certain areas, particularly around Kissimmee grass and submerged vegetation. The incoming rain might stir things up a bit, potentially triggering some feeding activity. Focus on areas with moving water and use topwater lures early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Flipping and pitching around heavy cover will also be productive. Look for those areas where the water is flowing in from the canals.

Key Areas: Look to fish the outside grass lines and any cuts or pockets that hold bait.

Top Lure Choices: Topwater frogs, swimbaits, and flipping jigs.

Crappie Fishing

Crappie fishing can be a bit tougher in the summer months, but it’s still doable. With the rain, look for crappie to move into slightly deeper water near structure. Minnows and jigs fished around brush piles and submerged trees will be your best bet. The lower lake levels might make it easier to locate some of these hidden honey holes.

Key Areas: Deeper water near structure, brush piles, and submerged trees.

Top Lure Choices: Minnows, jigs, and small crankbaits.

Catfish Fishing

Catfishin’ should be pretty good with the rain coming in. Catfish love a good rain, and they’ll be out scavenging for food. Use stink baits, cut bait, or live bait fished on the bottom. Focus on areas near creek mouths and canals where the water is flowing in. Night fishing will likely be even better.

Key Areas: Creek mouths, canals, and deeper holes.

Top Bait Choices: Stink bait, cut bait (shad or bluegill), and live worms.

Final Thoughts

Overall, despite the lower lake levels, there’s still plenty of fish to be caught on Okeechobee. Just adjust your tactics to the conditions and be prepared for a bit of rain. Remember to stay safe out there, keep an eye on the weather, and tight lines!

Until next time,
Captain Joe

P.S. Don’t forget to check back tomorrow for another update. And if you get a chance, send us your fishing pictures – we love to see what you’re catching!

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