Ocala National Forest Lakes

The lake level on many of the forest lakes is low. The two brush attractors (marked by yellow buoys) have been refurbished with “Mossback” fish attractors on Lake Bryant. Several large Bass have been caught off these attractors. Some Hybrid Striped Bass have been caught in open water using live minnows and shiners. Lake Kerr can produce Panfish by fishing in the open water where the water depth drops. The two brush attractors (marked by yellow buoys) have also been refurbished with “Mossback” fish attractors. Fish on the shallow side of the drop on the bottom for Panfish. FWC biologists have found and tagged many 8+ pound Bass in Lake Kerr. Bass fishing in the forest remains good throughout the summer. Live baits always work well. Shiners free-lined near weed lines can be effective, as can live worms. Soft jerk baits rigged weed-less are also promising. Casting such lures into the weed line, then walking the lure on the surface to about 5 feet from the weed line, then letting it slowly sink to the bottom. Spinnerbaits can also be effective on cloudy days. Night fishing in some of the larger forest lakes (Bryant, Wildcat, and Grasshopper) works well. Fishing with Shiners tends to produce the best results. Try fishing on full moon nights to make watching your bait easier.