Fishing at Lake Okeechobee in Clewiston

Lake Okeechobee is one of the premier bass fishing destinations in the United States, and Clewiston is often referred to as the "Gateway to the Big O." Anglers from all over visit for its abundant largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill populations. With its vast expanse of shallow waters, vegetation-rich habitat, and top-tier guided services, fishing at Lake Okeechobee is a must for both beginners and seasoned anglers.

Adventure Guide to Fishing at Lake Okeechobee

1. Roland Martin Marina & Resort

Location: Clewiston, FL
Why It’s Special: A well-known fishing hub founded by legendary angler Roland Martin, this marina provides state-of-the-art bass boats, expert-guided fishing charters, and a tackle shop stocked with top-quality gear. The on-site restaurant, Scotty’s Tiki Bar, offers a place to relax after a long day on the water.
Key Features: Fully equipped lodging, bait and tackle shop, fuel station, and knowledgeable local guides.

2. Clewiston Public Boat Ramp

Location: Intersection of Hoover Dike Road and W C Owen Ave, Clewiston
Why It’s Special: Ideal for anglers bringing their own boats, this well-maintained ramp provides easy access to some of the lake’s best fishing spots. Close proximity to parking and local bait shops makes it a convenient choice.
Key Features: Free parking, boat docking area, access to Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail.

3. Jolly Roger Marina

Location: Moore Haven, a short drive from Clewiston
Why It’s Special: Known for its exceptional live bait selection and friendly staff, Jolly Roger Marina caters to serious anglers and beginners alike.
Key Features: Guided boat rentals, live bait sales, and comprehensive fishing reports.

Local Insights

The Big O is famous for its trophy largemouth bass, with prime fishing found in Moonshine Bay, Belle Glade, and Pelican Bay.
Water levels fluctuate due to seasonal changes, impacting fish behavior. Guides use this knowledge to locate prime hotspots throughout the year.
Lake Okeechobee’s ecosystem supports over 40 species of fish, making it one of Florida’s richest fishing lakes.

Visitor Tips

Best Times: The best months for bass fishing are December through April when waters are cooler, and fish are more active.
What to Bring: Fishing license (required for non-residents), polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray, and a cooler for drinks/snacks.
Directions: From Miami, take US-27 N for 1.5 hours; from Orlando, use FL-60 W then US-27 S (2.5-hour drive).

Reviews

Wandering Knapps aboard MV Illuminate3 years ago

We had a wonderful day cruising across the lake. However, not the go play and ski kind of lake. Lots of green algae today. The locks are fun too. We had a great day. Took about 5 hours going 8knots. Wandering Knapps aboard MV Illuminate.

Tammy Brembeck5 years ago

Love airboating on this lake. Lake Okeechobee is the 2nd largest natural lake in the United States. It’s well known for fishing too. I love all the little break areas for the Airboaters to use. We generally make a stop at one spot called the Tin Shed and have a picnic whenever we are out. You can see lots of different birds, some alligators, sometimes turtles too. The Tilapia beds are easy to spot. Can’t wait to go out at night to see all the red eyes from the gators.

Nicole Heatona year ago

Absolutely BEAUTIFUL ! Went for an E bike ride with a few others and Enjoyed every minute of it! As it was my first time there, and at sunset, I was in awe! Words nor pictures justify the beauty and serenity of it!

Bryan C7 years ago

Biggest lake in the state! It's a amazing place for all things outdoor, including fishing and seasonal hunting. Or just sightseeing and bird watching. It's a freshwater lake with miles of marsh lands on the exterior and deep-water water in the interior. Because of its size and has its own microclimate and can be very different out on the Lake compared to on the shore. For the middle like you can use a traditional boat but to get into some of the marsh land areas there's lots of grass and you would need a mud boat or an airboat. Going out on to the lake navigation is very important because it is easy to get turned around out there and because of all the Tall Grass you don't always have a visual point of reference

Tariq Malik2 years ago

Lovely lake, specially at the sunset. Over 100 miles of walking trails. Many many boat ramps. Peaceful and quite Will go again

Fishing

Fishing at Lake Okeechobee in Clewiston