Withlacoochee River

River level can fluctuate this time of year depending on the amount of rain the region receives. Interested anglers should consult the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s web app for up to date water level information. The river section south of Dunnellon has been most productive recently. Bass anglers should target breaks in the river current. Find areas where the current is slowed by vegetation or hard structures. Fishing flashy baits or rattle traps should induce strikes. Most fishing effort is focused on panfish. Bluegill, redear, redbreast and spotted sunfish can all be found in the river. Redbreast and spotted sunfish are fun riverine species to target. Fish outer bends in the river where the channel has created a “wall” on the riverbank. Small beetle spins tipped with pieces of shrimp can be very successful. Crickets and worms fished near vegetation and over sandy bottoms will also work. Catfish can be round in any slow moving back eddy, or near large submersed structures, like docks and fallen trees. When fishing near current, anchor upriver of your target and toss out a stink bait, letting the smell waft down to any hungry catfish. Those looking for a more unique fishing experience can head up the Rainbow River. This clear, spring fed river will provide anglers the opportunity to sight-fish. Habitat is abundant and the water is cool and deep. During the hottest part of the day, this tributary should appeal to many anglers. Just remember, if you can see the fish, they can see you too. Many anglers target the Rainbow River at night. On a full moon, the panfish and catfish using this cool water sanctuary should be active and the fishing should be excellent.