Withlacoochee River

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.

As the weather heats up, so do the catches! There have been 11 bass over 8 pounds approved by FWC's TrophyCatch program in Season 13, which began October 1, 2024. This includes a 13.2 lbs. Hall of Famer! Bass anglers should target breaks in the river current, for instance, areas where the current is slowed by vegetation or hard structures. Live shiners are always a good bet and can be trolled, free-lined, or fished under floats along aquatic vegetation. Top water lures and lipless crankbaits fished around aquatic plants or around snags and other woody cover should produce fish as well. This river produces good panfish catches as well. Near Dunnellon, and up the Rainbow River, anglers should try using worms, crickets, or small artificials fished close to the bank and around woody structure. Anglers have great success catching spotted sunfish (stumpknockers) south of the Hwy 44 bridge, and through the small channel known as the Outflow River, heading into Lake Panasoffkee. Catfish should bite any kind of stink bait. Look for them to be in slow-flowing eddies and holes throughout the river. Those looking for a more unique fishing experience can head up the Rainbow River. This clear, spring-fed river is part of the Rainbow Spring Aquatic Preserve and is protected in its full length by unique rules such as no disposables (plastic water bottles, chip bags, etc.) and idle speed only. For the full list of rules, go to River Rules (What you should know). Habitat is abundant, and the clear water is cool and deep, providing anglers with the opportunity to sight-fish. 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, and so 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.