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Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report – August 23, 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

As of today, August 23, 2025, Lake Okeechobee’s water level is at 12.27 feet. That’s down from last year’s 14.13 feet and quite a bit lower than the 15.35 feet we saw two years ago. We’re also sitting about 1.81 feet below the historical average for this time of year. The lake level has decreased by 0.04 feet since yesterday.

The navigation depth on Route 1 is approximately 6.21 feet and Route 2 is approximately 4.41 feet.

Weather Impact on Fishing

Looks like we’re in for some wet weather. The forecast calls for rain, about 5.69mm, with winds coming out of the southwest (247 degrees) at around 7.31 meters/second (that’s about 16 mph), with gusts up to 11.39 meters/second (around 25 mph). Temperatures will be ranging from a low of 22.91°C (73°F) to a high of 27.53°C (82°F). The humidity is sitting at 98%.

Now, how’s this gonna affect your fishin’? Let’s break it down:

Bass Fishing

With the rain and wind, bass are likely to be holding tight to cover. Think about flipping jigs and worms around heavy vegetation, or working a crankbait along the edges of grass lines. The lower water levels might concentrate the fish in certain areas, so focus on those spots. Look for areas with moving water, like canals or cuts, as the rain runoff can bring in baitfish.

• Top Lures: Jigs, worms, crankbaits, spinnerbaits
• Key Areas: Heavy vegetation, grass edges, canals, cuts

Crappie Fishing

Crappie fishing can be tough in windy conditions. Try fishing deeper brush piles or submerged structures. Minnows and jigs are your best bet. The rain might stir up the water a bit, so use brighter colored jigs to help them stand out.

• Top Lures: Minnows, jigs (bright colors)
• Key Areas: Deep brush piles, submerged structures

Catfish Fishing

Catfish love a good rain! The runoff washes all sorts of tasty things into the lake. Set up your lines with stink bait or cut bait near the mouths of creeks or canals. The wind might make it a bit harder to feel the bite, so use heavier weights to keep your lines tight.

• Top Lures: Stink bait, cut bait
• Key Areas: Creek mouths, canals

Inflows and Outflows

Total inflows to the lake are at 2731 cfs, with the S65E structure contributing the most at 2433 cfs. Total outflows are at 210 cfs.

Captain Joe’s Tip of the Day

Don’t let the weather scare you off! Sometimes the best fishing happens when conditions are less than ideal. Just be prepared, stay safe, and adjust your tactics accordingly. And always, always check the South Florida Water Management District website for the latest water restrictions.

Tight lines, y’all!

– Captain Joe

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