Winter Haven Chain of Lakes
Polk County
Located primarily within the City of Winter Haven, twenty-two lakes compose this 9,000-acre chain where fishing and boating are extremely popular. The Chain is split into two sections, the North and South, that are connected through a lock system between lakes Hartridge and Conine. Water quality and habitat can vary greatly between lakes, with most offering the opportunity to catch the fish of a lifetime. Trophy bass, panfish, catfish, and crappie (specks) can be found throughout the Chain. Popular boat and shore access to the South Chain are available at lakes Summit, Shipp, Howard, Cannon, and Hartridge. The North Chain can be accessed through lakes Conine, Rochelle, and Haines. For more details on access to the Chain, take a look at the FWC Ramp Finder. The City of Winter Haven is also home to a number of other outstanding lakes that are separate from the Chain. These lakes offer a variety of fishing opportunities and should not be overlooked.
More lake information can be found on the City of Winter Haven website.
Bluegill (bream) fishing will pick up as the temperature rises, try using red wigglers under a bobber and small jigs around vegetation. Look for crappie (specks) in areas with grass and other vegetation. Dropping a minnow or jig into holes in vegetation or around grass edges can produce some bites. Drift live Missouri minnows or troll with Hal flies and small spinners can also be productive this time of year. Florida bass fishing should be heating up as they try to regain energy after the spawn. Try fishing a vibrating swim jig (chatterbait) along grass beds and thick vegetation lines. Bluegill style baits are a good choice this time of year. As the days heat up, target docks and areas with heavy vegetation with swimbaits or Texas rigged soft plastics. Deep water structures will also hold fish, try using deep-diving crankbaits or heavy jigs in these areas. Tight lines!
Popular Species
Fish graphics by Duane Raver, Jr.
More species information is available for:
Florida/largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear sunfish, Black crappie
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 the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes:
Lunker Club (8 – 9.9 pounds): 233
Trophy Club (10 - 12.9 pounds): 32
Hall of Fame Club (13+ pounds): 5