Seeing as it’s home to one of the most diverse aquatic ecosystems in North America, it shouldn’t be any surprise that Wakulla County is a paradise when it comes to freshwater fishing. The St. Marks and Wakulla rivers, which were important supply routes throughout the early history of the southeastern United States, remain healthy and vibrant today. Small streams are also common in the lush forests in Wakulla County, and it wouldn’t be Florida without an abundance of calm lakes to fish on.
The freshwaters of Wakulla County make perfect fishing for novices and seasoned professionals alike. Whether you want to take the whole family out on the lake for a day of fun, or you prefer to experience the majestic beauty of the landscape by spending some alone time in a quiet stream, there’s a waterway to suit your tastes. Of course, Wakulla County’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico means there is fantastic saltwater fishing available as well, but that will have to wait for another time.
There are numerous angling outfitters in the area who are able to supply you with everything you need to have a memorable fishing experience, and you can even charter a guide if you’d like some assistance from a local expert. So grab your gear and don’t forget your fishing license, because it’s time to cast a line in the beautiful waters of Wakulla County!
Lake Fishing
It’s easy to understand why lake fishing is so popular among Americans. The calm, predictable waters and variety of aquatic life create an opportunity for success regardless of your skill level. It’s a great way to relax, since you can comfortably enjoy some refreshments in your boat and pick the rod back up whenever the urge strikes you, but the Lakes of Wakulla County also present some serious fishing challenges. The largemouth bass, commonly found in lakes throughout Florida, is the state’s official freshwater fish. Even if you don’t have a boat, there are many lakes where you can fish directly from the shore. Some hotspots for lake fishing in Wakulla County include:
- Otter Lake
- Wood Lake
- Mack Lake Landing
River Fishing
Not only are the county’s rivers teeming with several different species of fish, floating down the river while admiring the vibrant ecosystem around you makes for a unique and contemplative experience. In the rivers of the Florida panhandle, you’re likely to find bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie, and sunfish, depending upon the spawning season. There are several areas where you can launch your boat into one of Wakulla County’s river, many of which are adjacent to historical sites, hiking trails, and picnic facilities. Some of the ramps you can check out are:
- St. Marks River City Park
- Wakulla River Lower Bridge Ramp
- Newport Ramp
Stream Fishing
When you really want to get off the beaten path and immerse yourself in a natural environment, nothing beats casting a line in a small stream. Stream fishing is also a great way to test your angling skills, since the better you understand the movement of the waters and the behavior of the fish, the more successful you’ll be. There are a variety of small streams in Wakulla County for you to fish, but be sure to explore the sprawling woodlands of the Apalachicola National Forest.
