Lake Rousseau
Levy and Citrus Counties
An impoundment of the Withlacoochee River, as part of the original Cross Florida Barge Canal project, this large lake is full of cypress trees, pennywort islands and sometimes hydrilla. Abundant cover and structure grow plenty of bluegill, redear sunfish, catfish, black crappie and largemouth bass. The deeper river channel is always good to locate and fish underwater bends. The rest of the lake is referred to as the "flats" or the backwaters.
Local contacts:
Big Bass Village 352-447-3474, toll free 1-877-463-4742
Lake Rousseau RV Park/Fishing Resort 352-795-6336, lakerousseaurvpark.com
Dunnellon Bait and Tackle 352-465-2755
While the weather and water temperatures are still hot, bass anglers should focus their efforts on the early morning or late evening hours. During the day, fishing deeper water near the edges of the channels should produce fish. Live shiners are always a great option. Large swaths of hydrilla and eelgrass are growing strong throughout the lake. These areas should provide excellent spots for bass fishing. Season 12 of the FWC TrophyCatch program was a standout with over 30 approved bass catches over 8 pounds. The panfish bite has been very productive, especially around full moons. Worms and crickets are the preferred baits. Fish around the edges of vegetation and submerged structures. The catfish here are reported to be big. Find submerged structures near the edge of flowing water. Drop a stinky bait and let the current carry the smell to any hungry catfish waiting for a meal. There are several local tackle shops near the lake. Contact them before your trip for additional fishing advice.
Popular Species
Fish graphics by Duane Raver, Jr.
More species information is available for:
Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Sunshine bass, Striped bass, Channel catfish, Black crappie
TrophyCatch Tracker
TrophyCatch is FWC's citizen-science program that rewards anglers for documenting and releasing trophy bass 8 pounds or larger. The following TrophyCatch bass have been submitted from Lake Rousseau:
Lunker Club (8 – 9.9 pounds): 231
Trophy Club (10 - 12.9 pounds): 49
Hall of Fame Club (13+ pounds): 2