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Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report – July 17, 2025 – Captain Joe

Howdy folks, Captain Joe here, bringing you your daily dose of what’s happening on our beloved Lake Okeechobee. Been fishin’ these waters for longer than I care to admit, and I’ve seen it all. Let’s dive right into what the Big O is serving up today.

Lake Level and Water Conditions

According to the latest U.S. Army Corps of Engineers data, as of 2400 hours on July 17, 2025:

Okeechobee Lake Regulation      Elevation   Last Year  2YRS Ago
                                (ft-NGVD)   (ft-NGVD)  (ft-NGVD)
  *Okeechobee Lake Elevation       11.85       13.55    14.92 (Official Elv)
        

The lake level is sitting at 11.85 feet. That’s down from last year’s 13.55 feet and significantly lower than two years ago at 14.92 feet. We’re also sitting about 1.77 feet below the period of record average. This lower water level is definitely impacting where the fish are holding, so keep that in mind.

Weather Forecast and Fishing Impact

The weather forecast for today, July 18, 2025, calls for broken clouds with a breeze. Here’s the breakdown:

• Winds: Coming from the East (around 90 degrees) at about 12 mph, with gusts up to 18 mph.
• Temperature: High of around 91°F, low around 78°F.

Now, how’s this gonna affect your fishing? Let’s break it down by species:

Bass Fishing

With the lake level down and the broken clouds providing some cover, look for bass to be holding around submerged vegetation and any available structure. The breeze might make topwater fishing a bit challenging, but spinnerbaits and crankbaits worked along the edges of grass lines could be productive. Focus on areas with moving water, as the inflows indicate some current.

Crappie Fishing

Crappie will likely be holding deeper with the warmer temperatures. Try fishing around submerged brush piles and bridge pilings using minnows or jigs. The wind could make boat control a little tricky, so consider using a trolling motor or drift sock to maintain your position.

Catfish Fishing

Catfishin’ should be decent, especially with the inflows bringing in fresh water. Target areas near the mouths of creeks and canals using stink baits, cut bait, or live bait. Fishing at night or early morning will likely be more productive as the temperatures cool down.

Inflows and Outflows

Here’s a quick look at the inflows and outflows:

Okeechobee Inflows (cfs):
  S65E           1079      S65EX1            0      Fisheating Cr  1006
  S154              0      S191            286      S135 Pumps      188
  S84             874      S133 Pumps       73      S2 Pumps          0
  S84X            249      S127 Pumps       60      S3 Pumps          0
  S71             547      S129 Pumps       88      S4 Pumps          0
  S72              79      S131 Pumps       41      C5                0
Total Inflows:   4570
        

Total inflows are at 4570 cfs, with significant contributions from S65E and Fisheating Creek. Keep an eye on these areas, as they can attract fish looking for food and oxygen.

That’s all for today’s report, folks. Remember to stay safe out there, wear your life jacket, and tight lines!

Tight lines and God bless!

– Captain Joe

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