As a bass fisherman, you probably have your favorite fishing spots that call your name. And we’re willing to bet that if you’ve ever gone fishing in Florida, the Sunshine State is very near, if not at the top, of that list.
Florida is not only known as the Sunshine State, though. It’s also the ideal fishing destination. For those of you who haven’t yet had this experience, these are our top 5 reasons why Florida is the ‘fishing capital of the world’.
Family Friendly
Fishing is not just a solo sport. It’s also the perfect activity for a family adventure. And Florida is nothing if not family-friendly. This is due, in large part, to the magnificent natural scenery, an abundance of wildlife, pristine beaches, and of course, the wonderful weather.
There are also numerous family-oriented places where your family can have a good time when they’re not joining you on the banks for a spot of fishing. From Daytona Beach to Tranquility Bay Resort, and of course the iconic Disney World, there’s no shortage of family fun for when you’re not hooking up some bait.
And don’t let the opportunity pass you by to stop at the Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum in Fort Lauderdale. The headquarters of the International Game Fish Association, the museum is also a wealth of fun but educational topics on all things fishing.
Abundance Of Different Fish Species
Thanks to its geographical and biological diversity, Florida boasts a wide variety of fish species. There are largemouth, lunker, peacock, and even the appropriately named Sunshine Bass – hybrids found in Northern Florida’s cooler waters.
Everyone has a favorite when it comes to fishing. But whatever your favorite is, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Florida’s many ponds, lakes, rivers, reservoirs, or canals. That’s good news because fishing as a hobby or competitive sport is as popular as ever in the US.
Is lunker bass your target? Head on over to Rodman Reservoir at any time of year. Are peacock bass more your thing? You’d best be heading to the Florida Keys, in particular Key Largo, for the best saltwater peacock bass fishing spots.
Vegetation And Topography
What does this have to do with Florida’s fishing popularity? Quite a lot. Topography has a direct influence on the natural resources of any location. Florida has a unique geological history that has led to the creation of optimal habitats for many fish species.
Then waterways are abundant, especially shallow but fertile lakes, and rich vegetation. The amount of sunlight, too, affects the biological diversity in any marine area. In Florida, these factors combine to make up the ideal marine ecosystem for freshwater fishing.
Great Weather
Of course, we know that nothing puts you off going fishing, not even the weather. But let’s face it, an abundance of good weather doesn’t hurt. Concentration when fishing is of paramount importance. Nothing should ever get in the way of your focus if you can help it.
The reason Florida has earned that sunshine moniker is the great weather, all year round. With an average of 237 sunny days a year, Florida’s appeal is assured. There’s nothing quite like fishing as the sun rises, and that’s the best time in the summer for bass fishing, as well as pike and pan fishing.
If you’re new to the sport, you’re probably wondering why that is the case. It’s quite simple. As the temperature of the water is just right at that time (and about two hours after) for them to feed, that’s when you’ll hook the most fish.
Seasonal conditions play a role, too. The springtime in central Florida is the best time for trophy bass. If you’re after game fish south of Miami, March and April are the best months of the year. Although fall fishing is a big deal in this state, too. That said, the summer months offer ample fish for keen fishermen.
Top Tournaments
Most fishing organizations host their fishing tournaments in Florida. The Bass Busters Classic is a prime example. Held on Lake Okeechobee since 1987, this is the dedicated bass fisherman’s go-to for catch and release, with silver and gold divisions.
And let’s not forget the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament, a decades-long tradition amongst experienced fishermen that paves the way for participation in the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship. Anyone in the angling community would be foolhardy to give this annual event a miss.
And there are so many more tournaments in Florida for the avid fisherman. Whether that’s because of the state’s popularity as a fishing destination or the reason for it, is a matter for debate. But the fact remains, any serious fisherman will find numerous opportunities all through the year in this fisherman’s paradise.
