Suwannee Lake
Suwannee County

This 63-acre man-made, state-owned impoundment is filled with cypress trees and largemouth bass. It is a Fish Management Area and a license is required. Two fishing piers, one fully handicapped accessible, and several earthen fishing fingers provide boatless angling opportunities. The lake is shallow around the edge with good vegetative cover and several old sink-holes out in the trees providing deep cover. Perennial tactics, depending on the season, include pitching jigs and spinners up into "no-man's land"--the brush around the edge, shiner fishing in winter and very early spring, cranking shiner imitators between the trees, and fishing topwater lures and dark plastic worms anywhere. Good fishing for bluegill and redear sunfish occurs during spring and summer.
Local contacts: Greens Marine, Lake City 386-755-5390; Rooster's Outfitters 386-292-9726
Suwannee Lake continues to offer fishing opportunities during the winter months, although cooler water temperatures typically reduce overall fish activity. Water levels remain lower than average, so targeting deeper cover and structure remains the most productive strategy.
Bass are widely distributed throughout the lake, with larger individuals typically associated with cypress trees and submerged timber. Slower presentations have been proven most effective, with soft plastics, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and topwater plugs producing consistent results. White spinnerbaits retrieved near standing timber in mid-depth areas, along with live shiners fished in shaded cypress pockets, have been particularly productive.
Panfish are concentrated near the shoreline, particularly in areas with submerged vegetation or shallow cover. Live bait such as worms, crickets, or shrimp continues to be effective, while small artificial baits fished slowly also yield consistent results. Although spawning activity has largely concluded, winter offers steady panfish action, making this an excellent time for anglers using light tackle or for family fishing outings.
Catfish remain active near standing timber and deeper drop-offs. Bottom fishing with cut or live bait, including shad or small panfish, is recommended. Slow, deliberate presentations are particularly effective during winter, when reduced metabolism and cooler water temperatures can limit feeding activity.
Adjusting techniques to account for reduced activity levels will improve catch rates across bass, panfish, and catfish, making Suwannee Lake a productive destination for anglers throughout the colder months.
Popular Species

Fish graphics by Duane Raver, Jr.
More species information is available for:
Florida/Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Black crappie, Brown bulhead, Channel catfish

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 Suwannee Lake FMA:
Lunker Club (8 – 9.9 pounds): 2
Trophy Club (10 – 12.9 pounds): 1