Withlacoochee River
Citrus, Marion, Sumter, Levy, Hernando counties
This 157-mile stream originates in Green Swamp in Hernando County and flows north to the Gulf at Yankeetown. The stream has many limerock areas and associated swamps. Water levels fluctuate except in Lake Rousseau and the area just above the influence of Rainbow River. Water color is dark during the rainy season and clear during low water. Public ramps are located at S.R. 44 in Rutland, C.R. 470 north of Lake Panasofkee, the Outlet River west of Lake Panasofkee on C.R. 470 in Sumter County, C.R. 39 north of SR 200 in Citrus County, U.S. Highway 41 at Dunnellon and SR 40 at Yankeetown.
Local contacts: Anglers Resort Dunnellon 352-489-2397.
Water levels in the river can fluctuate with seasonal conditions. Anglers can stay up to date on river levels by visiting Southwest Florida Water Management District’s web page at www.swfwmd.state.fl.us.
The Withlacoochee River in Florida, also known as the Crooked River, is the state’s fourth-largest river. It originates in the Green Swamp of Central Florida and flows north towards the Gulf of Yankeetown. The unique Withlacoochee River is one of only two rivers in Florida that flows north. With its 60 approved TrophyCatch submissions in 23/24, the Withlacoochee River rose second in the state, just behind Orange Lake. But perhaps even more impressively, this river produced three Hall of Fame (13 lbs. or more) catches last year, and an additional two in 2025. There are many habitat types in the river, so be sure to have a variety of lures handy, including plastic worms, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and live bait.
Popular Species
Fish graphics by Duane Raver, Jr.
More species information is available for:
Florida/Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, 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 the Withlacoochee River:
Lunker Club (8 – 9.9 pounds): 191
Trophy Club (10 - 12.9 pounds): 58
Hall of Fame Club (13+ pounds): 6