Tsala Apopka Chain

The entire Tsala Apopka Chain of Lakes can be a haven for trophy bass fishermen, yielding multiple 9 - 10 lbs. catches in the first quarter of 2024. Look for bass to begin spawning as water temperatures approach 65°F, which means they typically spawn earlier in the Tsala Apopka Chain than in other NC Region waterbodies. A warm winter will produce an even earlier spawn, while a cold winter may delay spawning by a few weeks. Interested anglers should check with local bait and tackle shops for weekly and daily spawn updates. These local experts can provide up-to-date reports during the early spawn- what lakes produce fish and which baits are used. Generally, plastic worms and flashy baits fished quickly near vegetation can produce strikes from bass. Fronts heavily influence winter weather in Florida, and cold fronts push fish away from shore into deeper water, while sunny, warm days draw fish into shallower water to feed. This is the time of year when crappie fishing is best. Trolling or spider-rig fishing multiple lines at varying depths will produce good results. However, on the right day, in the right spot, crappie will be in the vegetation and sticking close to weed lines feeding and spawning. Once you hook into a fish, stay put until the bite dies or you reach your limit. Live minnows or jigs are the preferred bait for many crappie anglers; crickets, and grass shrimp may catch some crappies but are better bait for panfish. Choosing warm days to fish will be the most productive way to fill the cooler more quickly. Catfish can be found in deeper water. Fishing stink baits on the bottom and moving or rebaiting every 15 or 20 minutes will help you find where the fish are.