Lake Panasoffkee
Sumter County
This is a 4,460-acre Fish Management Area located by the town of Lake Panasoffkee. Panasoffkee is unusual; a true spring-fed lake, water depths seldom exceed four feet. I-75 runs along the eastern edge and C.R. 470 along the southern and western shore. A public ramp is available on the Outlet River, west of the lake on C.R. 470.
For more information on fishing conditions you can contact the Pana Vista Lodge at 352-793-2061. For information on other fish camps in the area, please call our Ocala office at 352-732-1225.
Lake Panasoffkee water levels are high this spring and the water is clearing up quickly. This lake has always been famed for excellent Bluegill and Red-Eared Sunfish, also known as “Shellcrackers”, fishing for many years. Anglers also can catch Spotted Sunfish, also known as “Stumpknockers”, in abundance. Fishing with a worm or grass shrimp works well. Fishing in the eelgrass in open holes with soft plastics usually produces Largemouth Bass, which the lake is celebrated for. Local fishermen like to use “June-bug” or “Houdini” colored baits. Large Black Crappie are also being caught in better than normal numbers for the fourth year in a row. Target deep holes or trenches along the shoreline to catch these popular fish with live minnows. Black and blue beetle spins also work well.
Popular Species
Fish graphics by Duane Raver, Jr.
More species information is available for:
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 Lake Panasoffkee:
Lunker Club (8 – 9.9 pounds): 139
Trophy Club (10 - 12.9 pounds): 28