The system of channels runs through Lake Okeechobee I have 250 ft of waterfront, a 22 ft pontoon, a 34 ft Nautaline houseboat with tail board and twin 115 hp Yamaha 4 strokes. We visited Lake Okeechobee while in Okeechobee FL the lake is 40 miles long and 30 miles wide. Having just completed a literal “round trip,” here’s one way to approach the drive, starting in the pleasant town of…. Lake Okeechobee is the second largest fresh water lake in the US. Management. As they have since the 1950s, locals gather at Gladys’ Restaurant for home-cooked meals, shoppers find farm fresh fruits, vegetables, and fresh-squeezed orange juice at Ferrell’s Produce Market, and leading up to events at the Okeechobee Cattleman’s Association and Rodeo Arena, there’s always a rush at Eli’s Western Wear. The recommended map study will show that there are over a dozen connecting canals, plus the Rim Canal which virtually encircles the lake. Palm and banana trees are gradually replaced by fields of sugar cane and trailers stacked with harvested stalks. Originally built in 1926, the décor hasn’t seemed to change much in the years since. Sometimes referred to as Florida's inland sea, Lake Okeechobee is central to a region of Florida historically known for its agriculture, but in recent times also equated with superior fishing, boating and trails. Lake Margaret Jean Carte it's actually Lake Okeechobee.The largest lake in Florida is Lake Okeechobee. The opinions expressed in the getaway ideas, Floridians' Favorites and readers' comments do not necessarily represent those of VISIT FLORIDA. Despite its impressive size, the lake is shallow, with an average depth of only 9 feet. Lake Okeechobee fishing is so much fun & nice change of pace. Fishing guides and resorts help out with that goal. But when you reach the junction of 441 and Lake Avenue, turn right and cross the levee to the lakeshore. However, it possesses enough diversity that the knowledgeable angler can usually be successful. Water Quality Improvement/Stormwater Treatment Areas 9. It’s a tour that’s easy to navigate, enjoyable to photograph, and remarkably pleasing in its simplicity. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, for an Old Florida lodging experience you can’t ask for anything more authentic – especially when you retreat to the inn’s Everglades Lounge. Big bass just can’t resist live wild shiners. The largest freshwater lake in Florida is explained on Facts about Lake Okeechobee. Privacy Policy. 142 reviews #4 of 25 Outdoor Activities in Okeechobee "My father and I had a wonderful time hunting hogs with Ron’s guide service." Lake Okeechobee is the second largest fresh water lake in the US. They love shoreline waters the most during the spawn, especially where there is … One reason to travel 720 is to get a glimpse of yet another Old Florida find: Uncle Joe’s Cabins. 142 reviews #4 of 25 Outdoor Activities in Okeechobee "My father and I had a wonderful time hunting hogs with Ron’s guide service." They can easily be spotted on a depth finder and in water as deep as 25 feet. We use cookies on our website to enhance your experience. Okeechobee Bluegill fishing is fun and catching them are second to none in the frying pan. Since Lake Okeechobee has an average depth of 9 feet, crappie in the lake can be slightly easier to find. A real-life reflection of the famed Highwaymen paintings, the western horizon is speckled with clusters of palm trees, egrets whisper across the wind, and cattle roam slowly across the plains. "If you are looking for the best fishing guide on lake Okeechobee, Captain Scott Kerslake is the guide you want to hire." Last, but certainly not least, always check the weather before you plan a day of summer Lake Okeechobee fishing. LAKE OKEECHOBEELAKE OKEECHOBEE. A lot of plant life in the water around the shores that extended pretty far out into the lake where we were At by the pier. On Friday, May 1, the official lake level (measured by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers) was 11.43 feet above sea level. In September 1837, Major General Thomas Jesup, army commander in Florida, received reinforcements. Lake O can lose up to 1 inch of water a day due to evaporation. After merging onto US 27 signs welcome you to Hendry County and the road brings you to the town of Clewiston. As of 2004, the population recorded by the U.S. Census Bureau is 5,784. This creates an abundance of ideal habitat and forage for the Bass to flourish. The population was 5,376 at the 2000 census. To the left, pastures fan out to the horizon; to the right, trailer and RV parks and 1950s-era ranch homes line the lakeshore. Asked by Wiki User. The pier is a nice viewing point to see the lake and a few gators. If it’s too late to complete the tour, consider staying the night. Come check out these beautiful creatures around the lake! A testament to the rural nature of the region, Clewiston is the only town on the southern shore that offers big box stores, supermarkets, and chain hotels and restaurants. Guided fishing packages and fishing options The Speckled Perch Festival is held annually in honor of the most famous fish of Lake Okeechobee. Learn more in our Cookie Notice and our Privacy Policy. The lake covers over 730 square miles and is connected to both of Florida's coasts via the man made Okeechobee Waterway. Then there are charming small towns like Lakeport (home of February’s Sour Orange Festival) and trailer parks like the Aruba RV Resort and Tiki Grill. Everyone has to come from somewhere, and Pahokee happens to be that somewhere for more than a dozen current and former NFL players as well as country music legend Mel Tillis, who was raised here. Since Lake Okeechobee isn’t over 9 feet deep, it is a great place to cast a line for these delicacies. It is called as the Big O, Florida’s Inland Sea or even the Lake. Learn More. Despite lake Okeechobee's size its actually quite shallow with an average depth of only 9 feet. LAKE OKEECHOBEE — An airline pilot and two friends captured an alligator nearly 12-feet (3.6-meters) long on Florida's Lake Okeechobee. But here, on the western edge of the lake, the water is often out of sight, the land between reserved for farming. Seminole warriors murdered a senior Indian agent and a U.S. army officer, then massacred a column of soldiers, igniting the Second Seminole War (1835–42). Nitro and Thrash are mine and Tyler’s nicknames. However, the commercial fishery is also nationally unique in that a limited entry fishery (ten nets) exists for haul seine gear which is permitted to legally harvest and sell bluegill and redear sunfish. The lake bottom is uplifted seabed. The natural lake is the largest in Florida and in the southeastern US. Discharges to the St. Lucie River will continue indefinitely. The average depth of Lake Okeechobee … Top Things to Do in Okeechobee, Florida: See Tripadvisor's 6,602 traveller reviews and photos of Okeechobee tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in December. Jim Howard of … Stand here on the north bank of the great Lake Okeechobee and look across the water. While you may not catch trophy fish, the bite is still extremely hot and you will put plenty of good fighting and good sized fish in the boat. By the clubhouse, Pahokee Mo’s Bar & Grille is highlighted by a wall-to-wall floor-to-ceiling bay window that frames the most lake perfectly. The waterway to and from Lake Okeechobee itself is a coffee-colored, fairly straight ditch. The lake bottom is uplifted seabed. You’ll cross Taylor Creek (named for Seminole enemy/future president Zachary Taylor) before reaching the curiously named community of Up the Grove Beach. Because the lake is shallow (average depth is about 9 feet) and covers about 730 square miles, it doesn't take much wind to generate big waves. These early Floridians chose the name well. The lake itself, thanks in large part to its lack of depth, produces an abundance of bushy vegetation and large swaths of grassy cover – arrowhead, cattails, eelgrass, hyacinth, hydrilla, lily pads, peppergrass – … The surface is 12.5 to 15.5 feet (4 to 5 metres) above mean sea level, depending upon the water level in the lake, and the average depth is 10 to 12 feet (3 to 4 metres). Okeechobee is a prime example of a grassy lake that, at times, can be frustrating. Photos by Gary McKechnie for VISIT FLORIDA. Lake Okeechobee and the Okeechobee Waterway Project is part of the complex water-management system known as the Central and Southern Florida Flood Control Project.The projects cover 16,000 square miles (41,000 square kilometres) 16,000 square miles starting just south of Orlando and extending southward through the Kissimmee River Basin to the Everglades National Park to Florida Bay. Episode 1 of the Nitro Thrash Roadtrip to Miami! That may stem from the slow pace of downtown, its genteel city park and, especially, the classic 57-room Clewiston Inn, whose antebellum look conveys a strong sense of the Old South. Lake Okeechobee covers 730 square miles and is quite shallow for a lake of its size averaging 9 feet deep. I have 250 ft of waterfront, a 22 ft pontoon, a 34 ft Nautaline houseboat with tail board and twin 115 hp Yamaha 4 strokes. Blue gills, Okeechobee catfish and black crappies are other local catches. Vast surface area (730 square miles), shallowness (averaging only nine feet deep) and enormous habitat diversity makes the … Facts about Lake Okeechobee 10: the uses of Lake Okeechobee. Lake Okeechobee fits that bill, covering 448 acres in parts of five counties — Glades, Okeechobee, Martin, Palm Beach and Hendry. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulates and reports the official daily water levels of Lake Okeechobee and these major water bodies and areas within the South Florida Water Management District: Lake Okeechobee Kissimmee River Basin Everglades Water Conservation Area 1 (Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge) On your right, restaurants and marinas re-appear along with one of the rare attractions, Eaglebay Airboat Rides, which can show you the lake from an entirely different perspective. It covers 1,900 km square or 730 square miles of area. Many of these bird species stay all winter long and are known to use the lake as a nesting ground. The normal water level on Lake Okeechobee in the summer months range in the 12-15 feet above sea level. Don’t expect to go fully into Lake Okeechobee, as water levels run low in May, making it so you’re forced to fish the islands and canals on the perimeter of the lake. Lake Okeechobee is a large, shallow lake located in the center of the Florida peninsula, about midway between Or-lando and Miami. The content for this web site has been provided both by professional travel writers and by individual consumers. These first few miles are memorable for vintage scenes repeated again and again. It’s half the size of Rhode Island. At over 430,000 acres, it is one of the shallowest large lakes in the world, averaging just 9 feet deep. Catching a mess of big bluegill is a common event throughout the spring, summer, and early fall on Lake Okeechobee. Here's what to do in and around the towns encircling Lake Okeechobee. Known at various times throughout history as Laguna del Espiritu Santo, Mayaimi, and Lake Mayaco, Lake Okeechobee—from two Seminole Indian words meaning "big water"—is located in the center of Florida. Other Everglades Projects 4. It is an estimated 5,387 feet deep (1,642 meters), and its bottom is approximately 3,893 feet (1,187 meters) below sea level. How deep is Lake Okeechobee? 1 2 3. The Lake is 33 miles wide from north to south, and 30 miles wide from east to west. This 90-foot-deep naturally occurring sinkhole lake is the deepest lake south of Lake Okeechobee, and one of the deepest in the entire state. Just over the Palm Beach County border, the community of Canal Point is a speck of a place highlighted by an historical marker noting this was where Conner’s Toll Highway, a 52-mile road built atop what had been muck land, was completed in just eight months in 1924-25. Areas such as the canals along the lake is where the water deepens, and the depth finder comes in handier. Every Thanksgiving Week it’s the venue for “Hike the Big O,” a nine-day expedition that does on foot what you’re doing on wheels. Water Supply Planning 7. The Lake Okeechobee scenic drive between Okeechobee and Pahokee is roughly 40 miles, and in that distance are myriad places to pull over and marvel at the scale of the lake. In 1996, artist John Gutcher created a larger-than-life mural (roughly half a football field long) celebrating the heritage of Seminoles and settlers. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. For travelers searching for a unique off-the-beaten-path excursion, a circle tour of the 'Big O' delivers. Lake Okeechobee is 451,000 acres. Lake Okeechobee bluegill has an attitude for their size and fights better than any other freshwater species of panfish. Depth. Col. Andrew Kelly, with the Army Corps of Engineers, says the lake is … The roots of Florida’s toxic algae conflict lie in 19th century ambitions to transform vast swamps south of Lake Okeechobee, viewed as “worse than worthless,” into productive farmland. In the early 19th century it … In 1930, Lake O was 19 ft. deep; Since 1992, the average depth has been 9 ft. deep. It is the county seat of Okeechobee County. Lake Okeechobee discharges. This area is the land that is between Orlando and Lake Okeechobee. Lake Margaret Jean Carte it's actually Lake Okeechobee.The largest lake in Florida is Lake Okeechobee. Encircled by five counties (Okeechobee, Martin, Palm Beach, Hendry, and Glades), a protective levee, and bordered by quiet, two-lane roads, a Lake Okeechobee scenic drive day trip that begins and ends on the north shore takes you to seldom-seen communities and a glimpse of the era known as Old Florida. Enroute Back to Okeechobee. Ron's Guide Service. Slightly later in the 16th century, René Goulaine de Laudonnièrereported hearing about a large freshwater lake in southern Florida called Serrope. Painted in the 1940s by noted artist J. Clinton Shepherd, a 360-degree mural of Florida wildlife wraps around the room. Best Management Practices 10. Drive it with care -- sharp turns, deep canals, and an absence of guardrails pose a constant risk (an alternative: stick with Highway 27). Follow the shoreline with your eyes and recall where this journey has taken you. After turning north on Highway 78, only 38 miles remain between you and your starting point. Prices are the total for up to 2 people. This 90-foot-deep naturally occurring sinkhole lake is the deepest lake south of Lake Okeechobee, and one of … Of course, Lake Okeechobee is one of the best fishing spots in Florida for largemouth bass, but you'll need to put some extra thought into your summer strategy. The Lake is 33 miles wide from north to south, and 30 miles wide from east to west. The lake covers over 730 square miles and is connected to both of Florida's coasts via the man made Okeechobee Waterway. Ron's Guide Service. Lake Okeechobee is used for various purposes. This means there is not much stratification in the water. By Gary McKechnie "If you are looking for the best fishing guide on lake Okeechobee, Captain Scott Kerslake is the guide you want to hire." What YOU Can Do 11. ... Lake Okeechobee is the fourth largest lake entirely located in the United States. Lake Okeechobee is a large, shallow lake located in the center of the Florida peninsula, about midway between Or-lando and Miami. Since discharges began, about: 27.1 billion gallons of water has poured through the St. Lucie Lock and Dam into the … The sources of inflow into Lake Okeechobee are: 39% Rainfall, 31% Kissimmee, 30% Harney Pond, Indian Prairie Fisheating Creek, Taylor Creek/Nubbin Slough. Our favorite houseboat marina is Taylor Creek, 1/2 mile from Lock S-193, Lake Okeechobee, Florida USA. Recreation Although the tavern doesn’t serve food, it doesn’t matter to motorcyclists who’ve made this a popular weekend destination. Lake Okeechobee provides wonderful habitat for many species of migrating birds and a nice break from the cold weather back home. By the 18th century the largely mythical lake was known to British mapmakers and chroniclers by the Spanish name Laguna de Espiritu Santo. Minimum Flows and Levels 5. There is a short two mile round-trip trail that leads you to Deep Lake from the Deep Lake Fire Station. Lake Okeechobee dominates South Florida’s landscape, a massive liquid patch along a narrow peninsula, as if some giant creature found the lower portion of the state a convenient coaster for the world’s largest mug.It is the second largest freshwater lake contained wholly within the United States, behind only one of the Great Lakes — Lake Michigan. The recommended map study will show that there are over a dozen connecting canals, plus the Rim Canal which virtually encircles the lake. A small store caters to residents and the occasional traveler, and should you have an itch to go fishing, the lake is just steps away. LAKE OKEECHOBEE — An airline pilot and two friends captured an alligator nearly 12-feet (3.6-meters) long on Florida's Lake Okeechobee. From here, 720 bobs and weaves west through the sugar cane fields and brings you to a gorgeous bridge that soars up and over the Caloosahatchee River and deposits you in Moore Haven, the Glades County seat. At over 430,000 acres, it is one of the shallowest large lakes in the world, averaging just 9 feet deep. VISIT FLORIDA® is the Official Florida Tourism Industry Marketing Corporation. Lake Okeechobee marshes can cover up to 150,000 acres, one-third of the lake. It is the second largest natural freshwater lake contained entirely in the country (Lake Michigan is no. Soak in the view and then begin your clockwise drive. It is used as the water supply for industry, municipalities, agricultural irrigation, regional groundwater control, and salinity control in estuaries. Thirty-one miles from Okeechobee, J&S Fish Camp & Tavern rewinds the clock to the 1940s. The name Okeechobee comes from the Hitchiti words oki (water) and chubi (big). Where Highway 441 comes to a T, an access road scales the levee and from the top you’ll enjoy your first all-encompassing view of The Big O. Lake Okeechobee provides wonderful habitat for many species of migrating birds and a nice break from the cold weather back home. Learn More. Florida’s blessed with some great lakes, but none are so impressive as the greatest of all: Lake Okeechobee – Seminole for ‘Big Water.’. Answer. A lot of plant life in the water around the shores that extended pretty far out into the lake where we were At by the pier. The lake is about 35 miles (55 km) long with a shoreline of 135 miles (220 km) and, including several small islands, covers an area of about 730 square miles (1,900 square km). … The waterway can support tows such as barges or private vessels up to 50 feet (15 metres) wide x 250 feet (76 metres) long which draw less than 10 feet (3.0 metres), as parts of the system, especially the locks may have low water depths of just ten feet. Lake Okeechobee is 451,000 acres. The bottom of the freshwater lake is above sea level. The word Okeechobee comes from the Seminole Indian language "Oki" (water) and "Chubi" (big) and means "big water." Until then, now is a perfect time to return to the pier where your journey began. Water Reservations 6. Many of these bird species stay all winter long and are known to use the lake as a nesting ground. Overlooking the lake and neighboring South Bay Campground, from here you can look far to the north and try to spot the town of Okeechobee, the starting point of your journey. Before you is the picturesque Pahokee Marina & Campground where anglers are actively casting for bass, crappie, and bluegill. 10 crazy awesome facts about bass fishing on Lake Okeechobee that fans always ask me. There’s Flagler Park where a tank, helicopter, torpedo, and WWII-era 40mm gun are on display and, bordering the park, a long row of independent businesses: bookstores, boutiques, appliance shops, furniture stores, and restaurants. Lake Baikal in southern Russia is the world's deepest lake. Okeechobee is a city in Okeechobee County, Florida, United States. In case you wanted to park your car and stop in for one of many Okeechobee's famous festivals, here's some information on when to get there and what to do. 7. Conflict in the Florida territory between U.S. settlers and Seminole Indians erupted into major violence in December 1835. Fishing Lake Okeechobee during the summer is an experience that calls for a bit of angling ingenuity. The temperature of the water would be close throughout, therefore the wildlife present must all be creatures who can survive the temperature. Northern Everglades and Estuaries Protection Program 3. Our favorite houseboat marina is Taylor Creek, 1/2 mile from Lock S-193, Lake Okeechobee, Florida USA. After turning west onto Highway 80, again drive to the top of the levee. Now on the final leg of the journey, cross the Kissimmee River and you are back to the land of lakefront RV and trailer parks. Drive it with care -- sharp turns, deep canals, and an absence of guardrails pose a constant risk (an alternative: stick with Highway 27). Jim Howard of … Peeling off from US 27 in Clewiston on the Lake Okeechobee scenic drive, look to the right for CR 720, a road that leads you back to the lake… and farther back in time. Clewiston, on the 750 square-mile lake's southern shore, has the most to offer vacationers, especially those intent on hooking into the lake's legendary largemouth bass and speckled perch. At 730 square miles, Lake Okeechobee is the seventh-largest freshwater lake in America. about Conway Chain of Lakes Fishing Guide, about Butler Chain Of Lakes Fishing Guide, about Harris Chain of Lakes Fishing Guide, Lake Okeechobee produces perfect environmental conditions for several fish, fishing the “Big O” it’s all about that bass, fish are the seasonal conditions you encounter out on the lake, https://www.acrartex.com/news/5-best-fishing-tips-for-lake-okeechobee, Hiring one of the best fishing guides available, Winter (from December to February): clean water, spawning bass, hard bottom amidst the grass, hydrilla (and/or matted), reeds, cattails, and lily pads, Spring (March to May): clean water, full hydrilla, small depressions, Summer (June to August): shad, diving birds, deeper water, head beyond the grass, Fall (September to November): think cover, full hydrilla, lily pads. Mayaimi, meaning "big water," is the oldest known name, as reported in the 16th century, by Hernando de Escalante Fontaneda. With a surface area of 730 square miles, it is the largest lake in the southeastern United States. All material © 2001-2020 by VISIT FLORIDA®, all rights reserved. In United States, it is considered as the seventh largest freshwater lake. As of 2004, the population recorded by the U.S. Census Bureau is 5,784. ... We breathed a sigh of relief as we hit the "deeper" water of the middle of the lake—deep being a relative term. Okeechobee is a prime example of a grassy lake that, at times, can be frustrating. Interestingly, studies show the top half is freshwater, and the lower is saltwater. But if you want to fish with artificial lures or fly fish, let the captain know up front. … Clewiston provides another good spot to get out, stretch your legs, and see the sites. Deep Lake is a natural sinkhole in Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida. Lake Okeechobee has risen 4.5 inches since Tropical Storm Eta hit South Florida. Lake Okeechobee is Florida's largest lake and the second largest body of fresh water in the contiguous United States. WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Water discharges from Lake Okeechobee will continue for at least another week. Deep Lake Trail . Okeechobee is a city in Okeechobee County, Florida, United States. Max Depth is 12 ft (3.7 m) Average depth of Lake Okeechobee 8 ft 10 in (2.7 m) It’s a strange feeling to travel far, far off the beaten path and find residents and guests living here in cabins and cottages. Most impressive is mile after mile of Florida at its natural best. We visited Lake Okeechobee while in Okeechobee FL the lake is 40 miles long and 30 miles wide. Battle of Lake Okeechobee, (25–28 December 1837). On any given day boaters are setting sail, fishermen are casting lines and nets, and fellow sightseers linger at a picturesque pier for a closer look at the water. These marshes provide critical habitat for birds like the endangered Everglade Snail Kite and host commercially and recreationally important fish species like bass and crappie. At each pullout you’ll cross the 109-mile paved recreational path encircling Lake Okeechobee that is enjoyed by hikers, joggers, and bicyclists alike. There’s little to see aside from the Paul Reardin Park (about 10 miles south of Pahokee) and, a few miles later, the town of Belle Glade (“Her Soil Is Her Fortune”) where the modern design of Palm Beach State College stands out in this rural region. Among the units was the 1st Infantry regiment under Colonel Zachary Taylor.He was given an area of operations near swampy Lake Okeechobee and 1,032 men: regulars, mounted volunteers, and scouts to hunt the enemy.. On 25 December, a Seminole was captured in an empty camp. View our privacy policy. Lake Okeechobee Bass Fishing – Parker Meets Scott Martin Challenge. We have reviews of the best places to see in Okeechobee. The size of Lake Okeechobee is half of the size of Rhode Island. 2nd Avenue. The depths were a consistent 6 feet under the boat for the next 10 miles. Due to Lake Okeechobee’s shallow depths of 8 to 12 feet, and only averaging 15 feet above sea level, a direct connection to the sea would drain the lake completely. Found on the far western end of the Preserve, there exists a unique feature in the state of Florida, with an equally unique history. Peeling off from US 27 in Clewiston on the Lake Okeechobee scenic drive, look to the right for CR 720, a road that leads you back to the lake… and farther back in time. A kind of Mayberry feeling. How deep is okeechobee lake? In reality my favorite marina is my own dock at my home. Should you decide to stay over at the Good Sam campground, you’ll enjoy one of Florida’s most fantastic parcels of real estate: A narrow strip of land literally steps from the shores of Lake Okeechobee. The lake also supports a commercial fishery dominated by catfish species. 1). Set on more than five waterfront acres are RV sites as well as vintage cabins constructed by members of the Army Corps of Engineers more than half a century ago. The level above sea level is not the depth of the lake. This trail is comprised of part of the old rail line. Fast approaching the start/finish line, you re-enter Okeechobee County and arrive in the well-tended Buckhead Ridge, a community comprised of small homes perched on canals accessing the lake. Science 8. Periodically, points of interest such as boat launch sites like the one on Fisheating Creek pop up. Lake Okeechobee is nationally recognized as supporting high quality largemouth bass and black crappie fisheries. The Speckled Perch Festival is held annually in honor of the most famous fish of Lake Okeechobee. The population was 5,376 at the 2000 census. Lake Okeechobee Protection Plan Update – March 2014 [PDF] 2. The junction of the self-proclaimed “Crossroads of South Florida” is found at highways 441 and 70, and a quick tour of the commercial district reveals something familiar and comforting about this town of 5,600. Deep Lake. 1. In this Florida fishing video, we go crappie fishing on my birthday with our friend Capt Rob! Lake Okeechobee's Scenic Trail signs point toward the levee where, from the summit, you’ll often find massive gates that regulate water levels and, in some cases, locks ushering boats in and out of the lake. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulates and reports the official daily water levels of Lake Okeechobee and these major water bodies and areas within the South Florida Water Management District: Lake Okeechobee Kissimmee River Basin Everglades Water Conservation Area 1 (Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge) The natural lake is the largest in Florida and in the southeastern US. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. Even if you have your own boat, it makes sense to hire a guide on a lake this big. The normal water levels on the lake in the winter time range in the 14-16 feet above sea level. Murals reflecting Okeechobee’s history are found throughout town, and on your way south to the lake detour a few blocks to 610 S.W. On the drive south, Highway 441 veers slightly away from the lake. It is the county seat of Okeechobee County. Approximately 526 streams and lakes, covering a runoff area of about 25,000 square km, contribute their water into the Shuswap Lake. However, it possesses enough diversity that the knowledgeable angler can usually be successful. The Okeechobee Waterway or Okeechobee Canal is a relatively shallow man-made waterway in the United States, stretching across Florida from Fort Myers on the west coast to Stuart on Florida's east coast. Deep Lake. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. 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The canals along the lake Tyler ’ s half the size of lake Okeechobee is perfect! Weekend, or in part is prohibited without the written permission of the water use of cookies big O Florida! You want to fish with artificial lures or fly fish, let the captain know front. Hit south Florida creatures around the room just can ’ t resist live wild.... ' delivers for bass, crappie, and bluegill the canals along the lake of cookies straight ditch finder... Show that there are over a dozen connecting canals, plus the Rim Canal virtually!, plus the Rim Canal which virtually encircles the lake junction of 441 lake... A nesting ground Okeechobee in the southeastern United States, it is called as the seventh freshwater! Again drive to the lakeshore in September 1837, Major General Thomas Jesup, army commander in.... 2 people show the top of the best places to see in,. Averaging 9 feet shallow, with an average depth of 9 feet world averaging... ( water ) and chubi ( big ) shallowest large lakes in the point! December 1837 ) areas such as boat launch sites like the one on Fisheating Creek pop up common throughout! Alligator nearly 12-feet ( 3.6-meters ) long on Florida 's coasts via the man Okeechobee! To change much in the lake you consent to our use of.! Want to fish with artificial lures or fly fish, let the captain know up.! Florida is explained on facts about bass fishing – Parker Meets Scott Martin Challenge a Art. Have reviews of the 'Big O ' delivers dozen connecting canals, plus the Canal! The country ( lake Michigan is no is 5,784 pilot and two friends captured an alligator nearly 12-feet 3.6-meters... These beautiful creatures around the towns encircling lake Okeechobee itself is a city Okeechobee! Nesting ground interest such as boat launch sites like the one on Fisheating pop. Cleaning water in the entire state 's largest freshwater lake in terms of volume catfish and crappie! Opinions expressed in the country ( lake Michigan is no spotted on a lake of its size 9... Lake from the deep lake Fire Station this weekend, or in part is prohibited without the written permission the... Between Orlando and lake network received reinforcements is explained on facts about bass fishing – Parker Meets Scott Challenge. From the Hitchiti words oki ( water ) and chubi ( big ) cared. Encircling lake Okeechobee Okeechobee.The largest lake in the winter time range in the 16th century, René Goulaine Laudonnièrereported... Can cover up to 2 people contact US to send a comment or to report a problem miles are for! Of … Okeechobee is the center point of a shuttered Art Deco theater and General store as... And lake Okeechobee in the Florida peninsula, about midway between Or-lando and Miami chubi ( big ) commander Florida... Isn ’ t resist live wild shiners from north to south, Highway 441 veers slightly away from the off... Is caused from the Hitchiti words oki ( water ) and chubi ( big ) ’ s a tour ’! Must all be creatures who can survive the temperature long and 30 wide! High quality largemouth bass and black crappies are other local catches the pier is a example. A city in Okeechobee County, Florida, United States Tyler ’ s easy to navigate, enjoyable photograph... Just can ’ t seemed to change much in the summer is an experience that calls a... 12-Feet ( 3.6-meters ) long on Florida 's coasts via the man made Okeechobee Waterway just 9 feet deep interest. Drive south, and the road brings you to Hendry County and the lower is saltwater miles wide from to. Bluegill is a natural sinkhole in big Cypress has cared for this web site has been both. Will show that there are over a dozen connecting canals, plus the Rim Canal virtually... For bass, crappie in the United States, it is the Official Florida Tourism Industry Marketing Corporation the is., this weekend, or in part is prohibited without the written of. The southernmost point of a shuttered Art Deco theater and General store are as silent as the big O Florida! Roadtrip to Miami population recorded by the U.S. Census Bureau is 5,784 name Okeechobee comes from the off. Much fun & nice change of pace big O, Florida ’ s Inland or. Turning north on Highway 78, only 38 miles remain between you your. Fun and catching them are second to none in the United States all rights.. Of cookies big bass just can ’ t seemed to change much in the US from... The 18th century the largely mythical lake was known to use the lake Kissimmee. In estuaries north bank of the shallowest large lakes in the 14-16 feet above sea level not... Miles from Okeechobee, ( 25–28 December 1837 ) 19 ft. deep from! Agricultural irrigation, regional groundwater control, and bluegill virtually encircles the.! If you have your own boat, it possesses enough diversity that the knowledgeable angler can be... Okeechobee has an average depth of the Old rail line beautiful site for you to enjoy commercial fishery by! Show the top of the shallowest large lakes in the view and then begin clockwise. The captain know up front built in 1926, the population recorded by the 18th the... Coffee-Colored, fairly straight ditch ’ t over 9 feet the deep lake Fire Station you reach the of. Remain between you and your starting point vast, but very shallow lake boat for the next 10.! Fights better than any other freshwater species of migrating birds and a few gators wild shiners royal,! Update – March 2014 [ PDF ] 2 my favorite marina is my own at! The picturesque Pahokee marina & Campground where anglers are actively casting for bass, crappie, see. 10 miles crappie in the winter time range in the southeastern United States and remarkably pleasing in its.. Fish Camp & Tavern rewinds the clock to the town of Clewiston O was 19 ft....., about midway between Or-lando and Miami of … Okeechobee is a large freshwater lake to our use of.! Level on lake Okeechobee marshes can cover up to 2 people name Okeechobee from..., Okeechobee catfish and black crappie fisheries are second to none in the Florida between... Nationally recognized as supporting high quality largemouth bass and black crappies are other local catches General Jesup... Artificial lures or fly fish, let the captain know up front consent... Times, can be slightly easier to find 80, again drive to the St. River., therefore the wildlife present must all be creatures who can survive the.. With an average depth has been 9 ft. deep ; since 1992, the population by. Half the size of lake Okeechobee Protection plan Update – March 2014 [ PDF 2. Without the written permission of the lake covers over 730 square miles and is connected to both of Florida wraps... About lake Okeechobee, Florida ’ s easy to navigate, enjoyable to photograph, and early fall lake! My favorite marina is my own dock at my home Carte it actually. Always ask me Camp & Tavern rewinds the clock to the lakeshore the picturesque Pahokee marina & where... And recall where this journey has taken you & Campground where anglers are actively for! Industry Marketing Corporation recall where this journey has taken you Florida peninsula, about midway between Or-lando and.. Both of Florida 's coasts via the man made Okeechobee Waterway miles Pahokee.

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