Tsala Apopka Chain

Due to the size of the entire chain of lakes, anglers are encouraged to contact local bait and tackle shops for the most current fishing reports and tips before planning a trip. In the Floral City pool, our spring of 2025 bass sampling showed slightly lower numbers of 12-to-18-inch fish. However, the number of bass under 10 inches was better, indicating good natural reproduction in this lake. Sampling results in Big Henderson are slightly down compared to previous years. Lake Hernando surveys revealed that the bass population had rebounded from the previous year, both in terms of numbers and size. Largemouth bass anglers can catch fish in any of the pools. Submerged vegetation is abundant throughout the chain. Look for deeper water pockets near patches of submerged or emergent plants this time of year. Fishing around sunrise or sunset in shallow areas can also be productive. Panfish and crappie anglers may find the best fishing to be after the sun goes down or just before it rises again. For panfish, fish in shallow areas near vegetation and structures with live crickets, worms, or grass shrimp. Fish deep with minnow-tipped jigs for crappie; they may be found near structure, but are more likely to be in open water. Catfish anglers should also focus their efforts at night. Fish with stink bait or cut bait on the bottom, where there are some water movement and hard structure, such as bridge pilings, sunken logs, rocks, and concrete pieces.