Ocala National Forest Lakes

Lake Bryant and Lake Dias have been very productive. FWC biologists have been stocking Black Crappie into Lake Bryant and it’s beginning to produce excellent results. Lake Kerr can also produce big Panfish and Black Crappie by fishing in the open water where the water depth drops. Fish on the shallow side of the drop for Bluegill and Red-Eared Sunfish, also known as “Shellcrackers”, or Black Crappie also called “Specks”. Bass fishing in the forest remains good throughout the summer and a lot of big Bass and Black Crappie have been caught in Halfmoon Lake, located in the Ocala National Forest. Last year FWC biologist tagged several large Bass in Lake Kerr. Live baits always work well. Shiners free lined near aquatic grasses can be effective, as can live worms. Soft jerk baits rigged weed-less are also proven. Spinnerbaits can also be effective on cloudy days.