Best Fishing in Florida: Top 10 Spots Only Locals Know About

Florida is a fishing paradise. With endless coastlines, freshwater lakes, and winding rivers, there’s no shortage of great places to cast a line. While famous spots like the Florida Keys and Lake Okeechobee get all the attention, locals know where to find the best fishing in Florida without the crowds. Whether you love bass fishing in a quiet river or chasing redfish in the flats, these 10 hidden gems are worth exploring.

1. Ten Thousand Islands – A Remote Fishing Playground

If you love fishing in places where nature is untouched and the only sounds are birds and the splash of your lure hitting the water, Ten Thousand Islands is the place for you. Located along Florida’s southwest coast near Everglades National Park, this area is a labyrinth of mangrove islands, winding waterways, and secluded fishing spots that most tourists never see.

Why Locals Love It

Ten Thousand Islands is special because of its incredible variety of fish and its peaceful, remote setting. Since the area is shallow and full of twisting creeks and hidden coves, it’s a haven for inshore species like:

• Redfish – These powerful fish love to lurk along the mangrove roots and oyster bars.
• Snook – Known for their aggressive strikes, snook are plentiful here.
• Tarpon – The ultimate sport fish, tarpon can be found rolling in deeper channels.
• Sea Trout – These fish love the grassy flats and offer fast action.

How to Fish Here

Fishing in Ten Thousand Islands isn’t like fishing from a big boat in open water—it’s all about exploring the backcountry. Here’s how to get the most out of your trip:

Kayak or Paddleboard Fishing – Since many areas are too shallow for larger boats, kayaks and paddleboards are perfect for sneaking into tight spots. You’ll get closer to the fish without scaring them away.

Small Skiff or Flats Boat – A shallow-draft boat is ideal for covering more water and getting into areas where the bigger fish are hiding.

Best Baits & Lures –

• Live Shrimp or Pinfish – Great for redfish, snook, and trout.
• Soft Plastics (like paddle tails and jerk baits) – Work well in shallow water.
• Topwater Lures – Early morning is the best time to see explosive strikes.

When’s the Best Time to Go?

• Spring and Fall – Cooler temperatures mean active fish, and the redfish and snook bite is at its peak.
• Summer – Tarpon season! If you’re looking for a thrilling fight, this is the best time to chase these giants.
• Winter – Fish move into deeper channels but can still be caught with patience.

What to Watch Out For

Since Ten Thousand Islands is remote, it’s important to be prepared:

• Bring plenty of water and sun protection. There’s little shade out here!
• Watch for changing tides—some areas can become too shallow to navigate.
• Mosquitoes can be intense in warmer months, so bring bug spray.

If you’re looking for a fishing experience that feels like a true adventure, Ten Thousand Islands is one of the best places to fish in Florida that only locals know about.

2. Chassahowitzka River – Fresh and Saltwater Fishing Combined

For anglers who want the best of both worlds—freshwater and saltwater fishing in one spot—the Chassahowitzka River, or “The Chaz” as locals call it, is a dream destination. Located about an hour north of Tampa, this river is famous for its crystal-clear springs, lush surroundings, and a mix of fish species that make every cast exciting.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem

Unlike crowded fishing spots along the Gulf Coast, the Chassahowitzka River remains quiet and largely untouched. It’s a spring-fed river, meaning the water stays cool and clear year-round, creating the perfect habitat for both freshwater and saltwater species. Here’s what you can expect to catch:

• Redfish – Found near the river mouth where saltwater flows in.
• Speckled Trout – Hiding in the grass flats.
• Largemouth Bass – Further upriver in the freshwater sections.
• Sheepshead – Hanging around dock pilings and rocky areas.

Best Ways to Fish Here

Kayak or Canoe Fishing – The calm, narrow sections of the river are perfect for paddling while casting along the banks.
Wading – The clear, shallow water allows you to wade in some areas for a more hands-on fishing experience.
Boat Fishing – A small boat or skiff can help you reach the brackish areas where freshwater and saltwater fish overlap.

Best Baits & Lures

• Live Shrimp – A go-to bait that works for both saltwater and freshwater species.
• Soft Plastic Jerkbaits – Imitate baitfish and work well for redfish and trout.
• Topwater Lures – Best for early mornings and attracting aggressive strikes.
• Spinnerbaits – Great for bass fishing in the freshwater sections.

When’s the Best Time to Go?

• Spring and Fall – Fish are the most active, and the weather is perfect.
• Summer – A great time for early morning fishing before the heat sets in.
• Winter – Largemouth bass move into the warmer spring-fed waters, making them easier to target.

What Else Makes The Chaz Special?

Aside from the amazing fishing, the Chassahowitzka River is one of the most beautiful waterways in Florida. Expect to see:

• Manatees – They love the warm spring water, especially in winter.
• Ospreys and Bald Eagles – Frequently seen soaring above.
• Crystal-Clear Springs – Perfect for snorkeling after a day of fishing.

Since it’s less known than other Florida fishing spots, The Chaz remains one of the best fishing experiences in Florida for those who want a peaceful, scenic setting without big crowds.

3. St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge – Fishing in a Nature Lover’s Paradise

If you love fishing in a peaceful, untouched environment, St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden treasure. Located in Florida’s Big Bend region, this expansive area offers some of the best fishing in Florida without the crowds. With miles of coastal marshes, tidal creeks, and seagrass flats, it’s the perfect spot to catch redfish, flounder, and spotted sea trout while soaking in the natural beauty of the area.

Why Fish at St. Marks?

Unlike Florida’s more commercialized fishing spots, St. Marks remains quiet and undeveloped. Anglers come here for:

• Prime inshore fishing – The estuaries and marshes provide excellent habitat for redfish, trout, and flounder.
• Low fishing pressure – With fewer boats and anglers, fish are more abundant and less wary.
• Stunning scenery – The refuge is home to salt marshes, pine forests, and diverse wildlife, making it an immersive outdoor experience.

What Can You Catch?

• Redfish – Found in the shallow grassy marshes and tidal creeks.
• Spotted Sea Trout – Plentiful in the seagrass flats.
• Flounder – Lurking along sandy bottoms and near oyster beds.
• Sheepshead – Common around rock piles and dock pilings.

Best Ways to Fish Here

• Kayak Fishing – The shallow waters and winding creeks make kayaks the best option for exploring hidden fishing spots.
• Wade Fishing – Many of the flats around the refuge are perfect for wading and casting directly into the shallows.
• Boat Fishing – Small skiffs or flats boats work best for navigating the marshes and estuaries.

Recommended Baits & Lures

• Live Shrimp and Mud Minnows – Excellent for catching redfish, trout, and flounder.
• Soft Plastic Jerkbaits – Perfect for working the grassy flats.
• Gold Spoons – Great for enticing redfish in murky waters.
• Fiddler Crabs – Ideal for targeting sheepshead around rocky areas.

Best Time to Fish St. Marks

• Spring and Fall – Fish are actively feeding, and the cooler weather makes for comfortable fishing.
• Summer – Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to beat the heat.
• Winter – Redfish and trout move into deeper channels but remain catchable.

Additional Things to Know

• The area is remote, so bringing supplies like food, water, and sun protection is essential.
• Changing tides can make navigation tricky—be sure to check tide charts before heading out.
• Wildlife is abundant, including birds, manatees, and even the occasional alligator.

For anglers who want a quiet, natural setting with great fishing, St. Marks is one of the best places to fish in Florida that many people overlook.

4. Blackwater River – The Best Kept Secret for Bass Fishing

For those who prefer freshwater fishing, Blackwater River in Florida’s Panhandle is a hidden gem. This slow-moving, sand-bottom river is a prime spot for catching largemouth bass, bream, and catfish in a peaceful, scenic setting.

Why Fish Here?

Unlike busier bass lakes, Blackwater River offers:

• Crystal-clear water – The sandy bottom keeps the water clean and easy to navigate.
• Less fishing pressure – Fewer boats mean more opportunities to catch big fish.
• Surrounding natural beauty – The river winds through pine forests and cypress swamps, creating a relaxing backdrop.

What Can You Catch?

• Largemouth Bass – The main attraction, with plenty of fish in the 3-5 pound range.
• Bluegill and Bream – Great for light tackle fishing.
• Catfish – Found in deeper holes along the river bends.
• Striped Bass – Occasionally caught in cooler months.

Best Ways to Fish Blackwater River

• Kayak or Canoe Fishing – The best way to access quiet fishing holes while enjoying the scenery.
• Bank Fishing – There are several public access points for easy shoreline fishing.
• Small Boat Fishing – A jon boat or small bass boat is ideal for deeper stretches of the river.

Recommended Baits & Lures

• Plastic Worms and Creature Baits – Perfect for bass along submerged logs and structure.
• Live Crickets and Worms – Great for catching bluegill and bream.
• Live Shiners – A top choice for targeting larger bass.
• Topwater Frogs and Poppers – Best for bass fishing in the early morning.

Best Time to Fish Blackwater River

• Spring and Summer – Bass fishing is best around shaded areas.
• Fall – Fish are actively feeding before winter.
• Winter – Striped bass move in, offering a fun seasonal challenge.

Additional Things to Know

• The river is slow-moving, making it easy to fish from kayaks and canoes.
• The surrounding Blackwater State Forest offers camping and hiking for a full outdoor experience.
• Local boat ramps provide easy access to different sections of the river.

If you want a quiet, scenic fishing spot with great bass action, Blackwater River is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets.

5. Cedar Key – A Small Town with Big Fishing Opportunities

For anglers who love fishing in a laid-back coastal town, Cedar Key is a perfect destination. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, this small fishing village offers incredible inshore and offshore fishing without the heavy crowds of larger destinations.

Why Fish Cedar Key?

• Uncrowded waters – Unlike nearby Steinhatchee or Crystal River, Cedar Key remains relatively quiet.
• Inshore and offshore variety – You can fish shallow flats in the morning and head offshore in the afternoon.
• Great year-round fishing – There’s always something biting, no matter the season.

What Can You Catch?

• Inshore Fishing
  • Redfish – Found along oyster bars and grassy shorelines.
  • Speckled Trout – Abundant in the seagrass beds.
  • Spanish Mackerel – Provides fast action on light tackle.
• Offshore Fishing
  • Grouper – Found on rocky ledges and reefs.
  • Snapper – A favorite for deepwater anglers.
  • Cobia – Often spotted near structure and channel markers.

Best Ways to Fish Cedar Key

• Kayak Fishing – Great for exploring the shallow flats and mangrove shorelines.
• Pier Fishing – The public pier is a great spot for catching trout and mackerel.
• Charter Boat Fishing – Offshore charters offer trips to deeper waters for grouper and snapper.

Recommended Baits & Lures

• Live Shrimp – Effective for nearly every inshore species.
• Cut Mullet – A great choice for redfish.
• Soft Plastic Jigs – Ideal for trout and flounder.
• Pinfish – The best bait for offshore grouper fishing.

Best Time to Fish Cedar Key

• Spring and Fall – The best seasons for redfish and trout.
• Summer – Good for Spanish mackerel and offshore species.
• Winter – Redfish and sheepshead remain active.

Additional Things to Know

• Cedar Key has a strong fishing community, with local bait shops and guides available.
• The town offers excellent seafood restaurants for a post-fishing meal.
• It’s a great place to combine fishing with a relaxing getaway.

For those who want great fishing with a small-town feel, Cedar Key is one of the best places to fish in Florida.

6. Sebastian Inlet – A Snook Fisherman’s Dream

If you’re serious about catching big snook, Sebastian Inlet is one of the best places in Florida to do it. Located on Florida’s east coast between Melbourne Beach and Vero Beach, this inlet connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian River Lagoon, creating an environment that attracts some of the largest inshore fish in the state.

Why Fish at Sebastian Inlet?

Sebastian Inlet is known for:

• Strong tidal flows that bring in baitfish, attracting snook, redfish, and tarpon.
• Night fishing under the lights, when snook gather near bridges and jetties.
• A variety of species beyond snook, including redfish, flounder, Spanish mackerel, and even sharks.

What Can You Catch?

• Snook – The main attraction, especially at night.
• Redfish – Big bull reds patrol the inlet, especially in the fall.
• Tarpon – These giants move through in warmer months.
• Flounder – Found near sandy bottoms and structure.
• Spanish Mackerel – Fast and aggressive, great for light tackle action.

Best Ways to Fish at Sebastian Inlet

• Jetty Fishing – The north and south jetties provide some of the best access for land-based anglers.
• Bridge Fishing – The A1A Bridge is a hotspot, especially at night when snook gather under the lights.
• Boat Fishing – A boat allows access to deeper channels where tarpon and bull redfish roam.

Recommended Baits & Lures

• Live Mullet and Pinfish – The best baits for snook and tarpon.
• Bucktail Jigs – A go-to lure for snook at night.
• Soft Plastic Swimbaits – Perfect for mimicking baitfish in the strong currents.
• Silver Spoons – Great for targeting Spanish mackerel.

Best Time to Fish at Sebastian Inlet

• Night Fishing (Best for Snook) – The bridge and jetty lights attract baitfish, drawing in hungry snook.
• Incoming and Outgoing Tides – The movement of water brings bait into the inlet, triggering feeding frenzies.
• Fall and Spring – Peak times for big redfish and tarpon.

Additional Things to Know

• It can get crowded. This is a popular fishing spot, especially during snook season.
• Strong currents mean you need the right gear. A heavy rod and reel setup with braided line will help handle big fish in moving water.
• Check regulations. Snook have strict size and season limits, so always check before keeping one.

For anglers looking to hook into big, powerful fish, Sebastian Inlet is one of the best fishing spots in Florida.

7. Lake Istokpoga – Trophy Bass Without the Crowds

If you’re a bass fisherman looking for monster largemouth bass without the pressure of Lake Okeechobee, Lake Istokpoga is a must-visit. Located near Sebring, this 27,000-acre lake is one of Florida’s top trophy bass lakes, yet it remains relatively under the radar compared to more famous fishing destinations.

Why Fish at Lake Istokpoga?

• Shallow, vegetation-rich waters make it easier to find bass.
• Less fishing pressure means a better chance of catching a trophy.
• An excellent year-round bass fishery, with peak action in spring and fall.

What Can You Catch?

• Largemouth Bass – 8- to 10-pound fish are common, and 13+ pounders have been caught here.
• Crappie (Speckled Perch) – Great for anglers looking for fast action.
• Bluegill and Shellcracker – Perfect for panfishing.

Best Ways to Fish Lake Istokpoga

• Boat Fishing – A bass boat or shallow-draft skiff is ideal for navigating the lake’s grass beds and open water.
• Shore Fishing – There are a few good public access points, but a boat provides the best access.

Recommended Baits & Lures

• Wild Shiners – The best bait for targeting giant largemouth bass.
• Plastic Worms and Creature Baits – Texas-rigged soft plastics work well around lily pads and submerged vegetation.
• Topwater Frogs and Buzzbaits – Great for fishing early mornings and over thick cover.
• Jigs – Effective for targeting big bass near structure.

Best Time to Fish Lake Istokpoga

• Spring (Best for Trophy Bass) – Pre-spawn and spawning bass are feeding aggressively.
• Fall – Bass move to shallow waters and become more active.
• Winter – Fish move into deeper holes but can still be caught with slow presentations.

Additional Things to Know

• There’s a lot of vegetation. Hydrilla and lily pads dominate the lake, so using weedless lures is essential.
• Catch and release is encouraged. To maintain the trophy bass population, many anglers release big fish.
• Local guides are available. If you’re new to the lake, hiring a guide can help you find the best fishing spots.

For serious bass anglers looking for a shot at a personal best, Lake Istokpoga is one of the best freshwater fishing lakes in Florida.

8. Mosquito Lagoon – Sight Fishing at Its Best

For anglers who love sight fishing in shallow, clear water, Mosquito Lagoon is an unbeatable destination. This stretch of water, part of the Indian River Lagoon system, is one of the best places to target redfish and speckled trout year-round.

Why Fish at Mosquito Lagoon?

• Crystal-clear shallow waters make it perfect for sight fishing.
• A year-round redfish population means there’s always action.
• Low boat traffic compared to other areas, especially if you fish the backwaters.

What Can You Catch?

• Redfish – The main target, often caught in shallow water while tailing.
• Spotted Sea Trout – Plentiful on the grass flats and great for light tackle.
• Black Drum – Another fun species to target, often found with redfish.

Best Ways to Fish Mosquito Lagoon

• Poling a Flats Boat – The best method for sight fishing in the shallows.
• Kayak or Paddleboard Fishing – Perfect for sneaking up on spooky fish in shallow water.
• Wade Fishing – A great option in areas where the bottom is firm.

Recommended Baits & Lures

• Live Shrimp and Mullet – Excellent natural baits for redfish and trout.
• Soft Plastic Paddle Tails – Great for mimicking small baitfish.
• Gold Spoons – A classic lure for redfish in shallow water.
• Topwater Walk-the-Dog Lures – Perfect for early morning redfish and trout.

Best Time to Fish Mosquito Lagoon

• Fall and Winter (Best for Sight Fishing) – Cooler temperatures bring fish into shallow, clear water.
• Spring – Consistent redfish and trout action.
• Summer – Early mornings are best before the heat sets in.

Additional Things to Know

• The water is super shallow. Be careful with boats, as running aground is easy.
• It’s a no-motor zone in some areas. This helps preserve the fishery and makes it great for kayak anglers.
• Patience is key. Redfish can be spooky, so a quiet, stealthy approach is necessary.

For anglers who enjoy the thrill of spotting a fish before making a cast, Mosquito Lagoon is one of the best sight-fishing destinations in Florida.

9. Big Cypress National Preserve – A Remote Fishing Adventure

For anglers who love the thrill of fishing in wild, untouched environments, Big Cypress National Preserve is the ultimate destination. Located in South Florida near the Everglades, this vast stretch of wetlands, swamps, and cypress forests is home to an incredible mix of freshwater and saltwater fish. It’s one of the best places to fish in Florida if you’re looking for solitude, adventure, and the chance to catch a variety of species in one trip.

Why Fish at Big Cypress?

• Diverse fishing opportunities – The mix of freshwater and brackish water creates a unique fishery.
• Remote and peaceful – Unlike crowded lakes or coastal hotspots, you’ll often have the water to yourself.
• Wild scenery – Towering cypress trees, winding creeks, and abundant wildlife make it a true Florida wilderness experience.

What Can You Catch?

• Largemouth Bass – Found in the slow-moving freshwater canals and lakes.
• Peacock Bass – A colorful and aggressive species, common in warmer waters.
• Tarpon – Known for their incredible leaps and powerful runs.
• Snook – Found in brackish waters and estuaries within the preserve.
• Bowfin & Gar – Ancient-looking fish that add to the unique experience of fishing in these waters.

Best Ways to Fish Big Cypress

• Kayak or Canoe Fishing – The best way to explore remote creeks and backwaters.
• Bank Fishing – Many canals along Tamiami Trail (US-41) provide easy access.
• Airboat Fishing – In some areas, airboats can take you deep into the wetlands for a unique fishing experience.

Recommended Baits & Lures

• Live Shiners – The go-to bait for targeting largemouth and peacock bass.
• Topwater Frogs and Poppers – Great for explosive bass strikes in the weedy shallows.
• Soft Plastic Jerkbaits – Perfect for mimicking baitfish and attracting snook and tarpon.
• Cut Bait or Live Mullet – Excellent for bigger game fish like tarpon and snook.

Best Time to Fish Big Cypress

• Spring and Summer – The best time for peacock bass and tarpon.
• Fall – Great for largemouth bass as water temperatures cool.
• Winter – Snook and tarpon move into deeper channels, but bass fishing remains steady.

Additional Things to Know

• Be prepared for wildlife. Alligators, snakes, and even the occasional Florida panther can be spotted in the area.
• Bring bug spray. Mosquitoes can be intense, especially in the warmer months.
• Check water levels. Some areas may be difficult to fish during the dry season.
• Permits and regulations apply. Always check fishing regulations before heading out.

For those who enjoy fishing in untamed, off-the-grid locations, Big Cypress National Preserve offers one of the most unique fishing adventures in Florida.

10. Pine Island Sound – A Kayak Fisherman’s Paradise

For anglers who love inshore fishing in calm, shallow waters, Pine Island Sound is a dream come true. Located near Fort Myers, this stretch of water between Pine Island and the barrier islands of Sanibel and Captiva is a top spot for catching redfish, snook, and trout. It’s a favorite among kayak anglers due to its many sheltered coves, seagrass flats, and mangrove shorelines.

Why Fish at Pine Island Sound?

• Protected waters – The islands shield the sound from heavy winds and waves, making it ideal for small boats and kayaks.
• Healthy seagrass flats – These waters support large populations of redfish, trout, and snook.
• Less crowded – Even during peak fishing seasons, Pine Island Sound remains more relaxed than busier inshore locations.

What Can You Catch?

• Redfish – Often found tailing in shallow water, making for exciting sight fishing.
• Snook – Lurking along mangrove roots and oyster bars.
• Speckled Trout – Plentiful on the grass flats and sand potholes.
• Tarpon – Larger tarpon migrate through in the warmer months.
• Sheepshead – Found around docks, pilings, and oyster bars.

Best Ways to Fish Pine Island Sound

• Kayak or Paddleboard Fishing – The best way to access shallow flats and hidden coves.
• Small Skiff or Flats Boat – Allows for easy maneuvering through the shallow waters.
• Wade Fishing – Many areas are shallow enough for anglers to walk in and fish directly.

Recommended Baits & Lures

• Live Shrimp and Pinfish – Ideal for redfish, snook, and trout.
• Soft Plastic Jerkbaits and Paddle Tails – Effective for sight fishing.
• Gold Spoons – A classic redfish lure that works well over grassy areas.
• Topwater Plugs – Best for catching snook and trout in the early morning.

Best Time to Fish Pine Island Sound

• Spring and Fall – Peak times for redfish and snook.
• Summer – Great for early morning trout and tarpon action.
• Winter – Redfish and sheepshead are still active in deeper channels.

Additional Things to Know

• Tides matter. Fishing is best during moving tides, especially when water is flowing through creeks and channels.
• Watch for manatees. The area is home to many manatees, so always follow no-wake zones.
• Bring polarized sunglasses. The clear water makes sight fishing easier with the right eyewear.
• Public launch sites are available. Matlacha and Bokeelia are great spots to launch a kayak or small boat.

For kayak anglers and inshore fishing enthusiasts, Pine Island Sound is one of the best fishing spots in Florida that remains a hidden gem compared to more crowded areas.

Plan Your Next Florida Fishing Trip

These 10 hidden spots offer some of the best fishing in Florida, whether you’re after trophy bass, inshore favorites like snook and redfish, or something totally off the beaten path. The best part? Since these aren’t the usual tourist spots, you’ll get to enjoy great fishing without the crowds.

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