LAKE OKEECHOBEE: The lake level has risen to 12.29 feet, but lots of bass anglers were still fishing in the rim canal with crankbaits around rockpiles. On the main lake, lipless crankbaits were working the best.
EVERGLADES/FRESHWATER: Capt. Alan Zaremba of Hollywood reported that water levels are rising in Everglades canals, but the largemouth bass bite is still very good. Urban canals have been productive for peacock bass. Both species were biting topwater lures early in the morning, then anglers were catching largemouths on plastic worms and stick worms and sight-fishing for peacocks with jigs and flies. Zaremba added that the snakehead bite has turned on in Broward County canals.
SOUTH FLORIDA INSHORE: Anglers fishing in Everglades National Park and Florida Bay were catching a few tarpon, some snook, some mangrove snappers and sharks from deep in the backcountry to the beaches to the bridge channels. Fishing for redfish has been good on the flats near Flamingo.
SOUTH FLORIDA OFFSHORE: Capt. Skip Dana of the Helen S and Fish City Pride drift boats at Hillsboro Inlet Marina said anglers were catching mangrove snappers, yellowtail snappers and a few mutton snappers. Night trips have been the most productiove. Dana added that dolphin were biting in 700-900 feet.
THE KEYS: Capt. Bill Hauck of the Sea King party boat in Marathon reported good fishing in the wake of the full moon for mangrove snappers at night. Lots of undersize yellowtail snappers were biting during day trips.
