Episodes

  • Battling Big Bass on the Big O

    Battling Big Bass on the Big O
    Jul 7 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your July 7, 2025, Lake Okeechobee fishing report.

    We had a classic Big O summer day: hot, humid, and just enough breeze to keep the bugs down, but not enough to ripple the grass mats. According to NOAA, today’s lake waters stayed mostly calm with south winds around 5 knots, and scattered afternoon thunderstorms threatened but never really washed anybody out. Sunrise was at 6:36 AM, and we’ll lose the sun at 8:20 PM, so there’s still enough daylight to cast a line in those evening shadows.

    Recent mornings have been best, with the bite slowing sharply by midday as that Florida sun beats down. Water temps are up, and so is the hydrilla growth, so targeting the outside weed lines and shaded pockets is essential. The big females are sulking tight to cover, while the buck bass are a bit more willing, especially if you’re dead-on with your presentations.

    The main story out here has been the frog bite. During the recent Toyota Series tournament, Jessie Mizell powered his comeback win on a SPRO Bronzeye Poppin’ Frog 70 in ‘killer gill,’ adding a touch of flashabou for extra shimmer. That topwater action heated up whenever the wind laid down, pulling some real hawgs from under the mats. Others like Jared McMillan and Marlon Crowder mixed in heavy flipping with Googan Baits Nuke Punch Craws and Medlock Jigs, especially in the thicker reed heads and out on Tin House flats.

    If you’re finesse-minded, a 1/4-ounce Queen Tackle Jig Head rigged with a 5.25-inch Beast Coast Seduce Minnow has pulled some decent numbers, particularly along the Kissimmee River channel and shell bars near the locks, as reported by local anglers in the recent series. Black and blue ChatterBaits with a Yamamoto Zako trailer have also scored, especially after a midday rain when the water cools a notch.

    For numbers, locals and tournament guys are still seeing bags in the 15–20 pound range, with several 6–8 pounders reported. One angler pulled an 8.05 lb largemouth mid-day after jumping in to land her—heat or not, the big ones are out there if you’re willing to grind.

    Crappie have slowed but can still be picked up jigging deeper holes at first light, while the bluegill are scattered on beds along sheltered banks. Nighttime and pre-dawn hours offer best action on cats and the occasional snook—it’s been a treat for the yak crowd drifting shad or live shiners around the rim canal.

    Hot spots right now: the North Shore grasslines from Gator Hole over to Horse Island still hold fish, but south end hard spots near South Bay and the Tin House area are producing when the wind lets you in. Don’t overlook the Kissimmee River mouth, especially for flipping and dragging baits along the current seams.

    Live wild shiners remain foolproof if you want to put kids or less experienced anglers on bass, but those looking for a challenge should work hollow-body frogs, ChatterBaits, and heavy punching rigs into the thickest stuff you can find. Keep a spinnerbait handy for stained water after storms.

    Thanks for tuning in to today’s Lake Okeechobee report. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss a bite. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    Great deals on fishing gear https://amzn.to/44gt1Pn
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    3 mins
  • July 6 Fishing Report: Bassin' the Big O Before the Heat Sets In

    July 6 Fishing Report: Bassin' the Big O Before the Heat Sets In
    Jul 6 2025
    Lake Okeechobee lit up today with classic South Florida summer heat and some textbook angling for those willing to tough it out. I'm Artificial Lure, and here's your July 6th fishing report, straight from the “Big O.”

    Sunrise came early at 6:36 a.m., while sunset’s set for 8:19 p.m. We started out with light winds at dawn, but by midday, the thermometer pushed well past 90°F and the humidity had everybody reaching for another bottle of water. Afternoon thunderstorms threatened, but for the morning bite, the skies held. Okeechobee isn't tidal, so water movement depends on wind and water management, but the best fishing lined right up with the first few hours after sunrise, before the heat sent fish and anglers alike into cover.

    Recent activity on the lake shows what you’d expect in early July: big largemouth bass, chunky bluegill, and some slabs of crappie showing for persistent panfishers. According to Major League Fishing, last week’s tournament action proved that the bass are still up shallow, especially around hydrilla edges, thick reeds, and eelgrass mats. Reports from local anglers and guides say the chatterbait bite remains hot—no surprises here, considering the legendary status of the Z-Man ChatterBait on Lake Okeechobee. Bryan Thrift made history with it in Okeechobee tournaments, and just about every serious angler now has a vibrating jig rigged up and ready to rip through grass or along offshore weedlines.

    Other top producers this week: black and blue skirted jigs, Texas-rigged soft plastics (especially creature baits), and white swimbaits for covering water. Early mornings, a walking topwater or buzzbait near the outside hydrilla lines drew explosive hits from bass pushing bait into the shallows. Live wild shiners are always a top pick for trophy hunters—local bait shops have been selling out early, so call ahead if you want the real thing.

    Bluegill and crappie catches have picked up for those fishing worms or small jigs near lily pad fields and deep holes along the rim canal. The best crappie reports have been coming in from anglers spider-rigging with live minnows or chartreuse jigs just off the main lake points.

    Hotspots right now:
    - **Harney Pond Canal and adjacent flats**: Bass pushing bait tight to shore early, then slipping out to hydrilla pockets as the sun climbs.
    - **South Bay near Pelican Bay**: Consistent action for those flipping jigs into thick grass mats, plus some nice mixed bags for panfish lovers.

    Remember, with water temps soaring into the upper 80s, fish are most active early and late. Midday means slowdowns—unless you can find the deepest, shadiest water.

    Thanks for tuning in to today’s report. Don’t forget to subscribe for the latest on Lake Okeechobee and all your favorite Florida fishing spots. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    Great deals on fishing gear https://amzn.to/44gt1Pn
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    3 mins
  • Big Bass and Bluegill Bonanza on Lake Okeechobee

    Big Bass and Bluegill Bonanza on Lake Okeechobee
    Jun 22 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your Lake Okeechobee fishing report for Sunday, June 22nd, 2025.

    We kicked the day off with sunrise at 6:34 a.m., and anglers hit the water under classic June conditions—hot, humid, and just enough breeze to keep things interesting. Expect daytime highs in the upper 80s to low 90s, with a typical scattered shower rolling in by late afternoon. Sunset will close the day at 8:20 p.m.

    Lake levels are holding steady around 11 feet, and the summer pattern is in full swing. Bass fishing is on fire, especially along river and canal edges. The Kissimmee River, Indian Prairie, and the point of Horse Island continue to produce quality largemouth, with big worms, deep-diving crankbaits, and topwater plugs being the go-to choices. Best colors right now: junebug, red shad, white, watermelon/red, along with tilapia and bream-hued crankbaits. If you’re patient and work your baits slow along drop-offs and ledges, the big girls are hitting—just ask Howard from Illinois, who bagged two “trophy catch” bass in under half an hour earlier this week, according to Captain Angie Douthit’s latest update.

    The panfish bite is keeping things lively for families and shore anglers. Bluegill and shellcracker are stacking up around the grass beds, especially near the shoal, Fisheating Creek, and the bridge pilings. Crickets and red wigglers under a cork are your ticket for steady action, with some slabs still being caught on small beetle spins and mini-jigs. The crappie (speck) bite, while winding down from spring’s frenzy, is still good early in the morning using jigs or minnows around deeper water and bridge structures. Recent reports have anglers boating upwards of 100 fish on good days, with 12- to 14-inch slabs topping the stringers.

    For folks seeking a peaceful day, Fisheating Creek is a must-visit. It’s perfect for kayak and bank fishing, and you’ll find a healthy mix of crappie, bluegill, and the occasional bonus bass.

    Top hotspots this week:
    - Indian Prairie and Horse Island point for bass and bream action.
    - The shoal for both bass and panfish.
    - Fisheating Creek for a tranquil, mixed-bag experience.
    - Kissimmee River and canals for deeper, cooler water and consistent bass bites.

    The fish are there if you put in your time and fish smart—early mornings and late evenings are prime, especially with the water heating up by midday.

    That’s your boots-on-the-dock report from the Big O. Thanks for tuning in—don’t forget to subscribe for your regular dose of local fishing intel. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease dot ai.
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    3 mins
  • Okeechobee Fishing Report: Bass, Crappie, and Bluegill Bonanza for June 21, 2025

    Okeechobee Fishing Report: Bass, Crappie, and Bluegill Bonanza for June 21, 2025
    Jun 21 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your Lake Okeechobee fishing report for Saturday, June 21st, 2025.

    We kicked off the morning with sunrise at 6:34 AM and calm, muggy South Florida air—typical for late June. Sunset’s lined up for 8:16 PM, so there’s plenty of daylight left to get in on the hot bite. Temperatures soared into the upper 80s by midday, with a southeast breeze keeping things just bearable on the open water. Water levels are hovering steady near 11 feet, according to Captain Angie’s recent report, which concentrates fish and keeps the action within easy reach of shoreline and canal anglers.

    Let’s talk fish activity—Bass fishing remains on fire this June. Several locals and guide clients have landed real trophy bass, with plenty of four- and five-pounders and the occasional hawg over seven pounds. Most of this action is coming early, so beat the heat and get on the water at first light. Best results have come from the Kissimmee River channel, Canals, and main lake points like Tin House Cove, Indian Prairie, and the point at Horse Island.

    Crappie (speck) fishing has also been excellent. Captain Experiences reports right now some groups are catching up to 100-150 crappie a day, with slabs running 12-14 inches and close to two pounds. Bridge pilings and shaded bends in canals are loaded with fish. Bluegill are still bedding in the shallow flats, providing non-stop fun—especially for folks fishing with kids.

    When it comes to bait and lures, here’s what’s working:
    - For bass: Big worms (Junebug, Redshad), deep-diving crankbaits in bream or tilapia patterns, white or watermelon/red soft plastics, and topwater plugs early. Swim baits and flipping jigs along outside grass edges have landed the biggest fish.
    - For crappie: Small jigs or live minnows fished tight to structure are your best bet.
    - For bluegill: Crickets or worms under a float can’t be beat.

    Top hot spots for today:
    - The Shoal on the west side is a proven area for both bass and bluegill, especially along the thick grass lines.
    - Deeper water near Clewiston all the way to Ritta Island is still holding bigger bass, and the tin house area is reliable if you want to fish the flats for both panfish and bucket mouths.
    - For peace and a chance at multi-species action, Fisheating Creek remains a local favorite for kayak and bank anglers.

    Action's been best at dawn, slowing down by mid-day. Anglers are reporting some mid-afternoon bites picking up around windblown points as storms threaten, so don’t leave early if you’ve got the patience.

    Thanks as always for tuning in to the Lake Okeechobee report, folks. Don’t forget to subscribe for the latest on where they’re biting and what’s hitting. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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    3 mins
  • Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report: Steady Bite, Trophy Bass, and Crappie Bonanza

    Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report: Steady Bite, Trophy Bass, and Crappie Bonanza
    Jun 21 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your June 21, 2025 Lake Okeechobee fishing report, coming to you local and lively from the heart of Big O country.

    Sunrise hit today at 6:32 am and sunset’s rolling in around 8:21 pm, giving us prime daylight to put lines in the water. Weather’s staying true to early summer: muggy mornings climbing to the upper 80s by afternoon with a persistent southeast breeze, and a chance of those classic Florida pop-up showers by late day. Water level’s hovering near 11 feet this week, meaning lots of exposed vegetation and some shallow access points tightening up—watch your props and stay alert for submerged hazards, especially off the shoals and marsh edges, according to the latest from Capt. Angie Douthit and Florida Fish and Wildlife.

    Tides aren’t a big factor on Okeechobee itself, but the Kissimmee River and major feeder canals are moving water steadily, which has kept the bite steady for river and canal anglers.

    Bass anglers are still cashing in on the tail end of the spawn, with big post-spawn females lurking on the outside edges and in the deeper ledges of the rim canal. The hot setup this week has been big 10-inch worms in junebug or red shad, texas-rigged and worked slow along drop-offs, as well as deep-diving crankbaits in bream or tilapia colors. Swim jigs and mid-size swimbaits—think white, watermelon red, or natural shad—are producing around thick reed patches and beneath rafts of floating hyacinth. Topwater action is turning on early, so walk-the-dog baits like a Zara Spook or popping frogs over the grass lines at first light have pulled some trophy bass, with at least two “trophy catch” entries—bass over 8 pounds—reported in the last week. If you’re using live bait, you can’t beat a fresh golden shiner under a float, especially for those lunker bites.

    The crappie bite is surprisingly hot for June, with guides reporting 100-fish days in the river and around bridge pilings using live minnows and white or chartreuse jigs. Most keepers are in the 12–14 inch, 1.5 to 2-pound range. The bluegill and shellcracker action is also non-stop for families, with bedding fish around Tin House Cove and Indian Prairie, hammering red worms and crickets beneath a cork.

    Looking for hotspots? Hit the Shoal on the west side for bass and bluegill, especially the outside grass lines near Monkey Box—if you see diving birds, the shad (and bass) are close. For more crappie and panfish, the Kissimmee River mouth and the point at Horse Island are tough to beat right now. Don’t overlook the canals, either, especially during the heat of the day.

    That’s the bite, straight from your neighbor on the lake, Artificial Lure! Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe for tomorrow’s updates. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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    3 mins
  • Lake Okeechobee Fishing Update: Bass, Crappie, and Panfish Bite Strong Despite Low Water Levels

    Lake Okeechobee Fishing Update: Bass, Crappie, and Panfish Bite Strong Despite Low Water Levels
    Jun 20 2025
    Lake Okeechobee anglers, it’s Artificial Lure here with your June 20, 2025, fishing report, and let me tell you, it’s hot in more ways than one! The weather’s been a typical south Florida stew—highs reaching the low 90s by midday, with some gusty winds popping up in the afternoon. Sunrise was at 6:29 a.m. and sunset will hit at 8:17 p.m., giving you those long daylight hours perfect for chasing big ones. Water levels are lower than average, hovering right around the 11-foot mark, so be mindful out there—some marsh edges and shallows are tight this time of year.

    Bass fishing has been steady and solid, especially for folks working the Kissimmee River and the canals. If you can get out early, those outside edges of vegetation—especially near Buckhead Ridge, Kings Bar, and anywhere from Tin House down to Indian Prairie—all have been producing. There’s been some good action around Horse Island and the shoal too, especially for those who like picking apart grass mats and drop-offs.

    Big worms—think 10-inch in Junebug or red shad—have been pulling big bites. Deep-diving crankbaits and mid-size swimbaits in tilapia, white, or bream colors are working great along ledges and points just outside the main current. Topwater lures early—like a classic Zara Spook or a hollow-bodied frog—are getting smashed right at sun-up. If you want to go old school, nothing beats live golden shiners for tempting trophy bass, and folks are still reporting monster catches, including a couple of “Trophy Catch” entries landing bass over 8 pounds. Just ask Howard from Illinois—two trophies, twenty minutes apart! Slow and steady wins the race out here, take your time and fish thorough.

    Crappie are still hot, believe it or not. Bridge pilings, especially those with a bit of current, are schooling up slabs in the 12–14 inch range. Some boats are racking up 100-plus fish days, with some slabs tipping the scale at nearly two pounds. Small minnows and white or chartreuse jigs are the ticket for these.

    Bluegill and bream are keeping things lively for family anglers. The panfish bite is strong in the shallows near the shoal and along grassy banks with a bit of shade. Crickets and red worms under floats will keep kids busy all day.

    Two hotspots to circle for your weekend:
    - The Tin House Cove area for a mixed bag—bass early, panfish all day.
    - The west wall up toward Bird Island, where the dynamite holes are holding good numbers of big bass and the crappie schools haven’t thinned out yet.

    Remember, with the lake running low, keep an eye out for underwater hazards and stick to marked trails if you’re new.

    Thanks for tuning in, make sure to subscribe for more tips and local insight. This has been a Quiet Please Production; for more, check out quietplease.ai.
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    3 mins
  • Okeechobee Fishing Report: Steady Conditions, Stellar Bass and Crappie Action

    Okeechobee Fishing Report: Steady Conditions, Stellar Bass and Crappie Action
    Jun 18 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your latest Lake Okeechobee fishing report for Wednesday, June 18th, 2025. Let’s dive right in—conditions are shaping up for another stellar week on the Big O.

    Water levels are holding steady just above the 11-foot mark, which is typical for late June and means bass and panfish are packed into the deeper channels and around the edges of thick cover, especially through the morning hours. Sunrise came at 6:34 AM, and you’ll have until sunset at 8:16 PM to chase those trophies, but as always, the early bite is the hottest. Weather’s been classic summer in Okeechobee—mornings start calm with a touch of cloud, but expect those temps to rise in the afternoon with a steady breeze picking up, so plan to fish early or late when fish are most active.

    Bass action is about as good as it gets this time of year. Guide reports from Angie Douthit and others confirm multiple days with quality largemouth landed—plenty of three to five pounders, and even a couple north of seven pounds for those who stick with it and fish methodically. The best bite's coming on big worms and deep-diving crankbaits fished along drop-offs and channel edges. Junebug, redshad, watermelon/red, white, and tilapia colors are all getting bit. Swim baits in bream or shad patterns produce when worked along grass lines and the outer edges of the shoals. For those who love a good topwater strike, try a walking bait or buzzbait just after dawn and near sundown.

    Crappie are still red hot for June. Captain Experiences notes days with groups catching 100–150 fish, especially around bridge pilings and the river mouths. Some slabs are stretching 14 inches and going close to two pounds. Live minnows and small jigs in natural colors are your go-to; just work them slow around structure for best results.

    If you want to keep the kids busy or just enjoy nonstop action, bluegill and panfish are loaded up in shallow grass beds and around lily pads right now—wigglers, crickets, or small beetle spins will all put fish in the cooler.

    For hotspots, head to the Tin House Cove, Indian Prairie, or the point of Horse Island for consistent bass action. The Shoal on the west side remains a reliable producer, especially early, and Fisheating Creek is a gem for both bass and panfish—great for bank anglers and kayakers alike.

    Wind doesn’t impact tides much here, but pay attention to how it stacks bait and fish against the windward banks, especially by midday. Always carry plenty of water, sunscreen, and keep an eye out for afternoon storms.

    Thanks for tuning in to Artificial Lure’s Okeechobee report! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss the latest action, and remember—tight lines and big smiles out there! This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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    3 mins
  • Lake Okeechobee's Stellar Summer Bite - Crappie, Bluegill, and Trophy Bass Abound

    Lake Okeechobee's Stellar Summer Bite - Crappie, Bluegill, and Trophy Bass Abound
    Jun 15 2025
    Lake Okeechobee’s fishing scene is heating up as we roll into mid-June, and this is Artificial Lure coming to you with your local fishing report straight from the Big O. Water levels are steady around 11 feet and dropping gradually, concentrating gamefish and making for some action-packed mornings and evenings across the lake. We’ve been seeing triple-digit catches on both crappie and bluegill, and the bass bite is still delivering trophy fish for patient anglers.

    Today’s weather is classic South Florida: expect hot temps in the high 80s to low 90s, with a light breeze kicking up most afternoons. Mornings are staying calm and humid, perfect for early topwater action. Sunrise is at 6:28 AM and sunset clocks in at 8:20 PM, so you’ve got plenty of daylight to work your favorite spots. With water levels dropping, keep an eye out for submerged hazards along the edges and shallow flats; make sure your navigation is dialed in.

    The bass fishing remains top tier. Largemouths are stacking up along deepwater drop-offs, canal mouths, and the outer edges of the vegetation lines. Big worms in Junebug and red shad, deep-diving crankbaits, and mid-size swimbaits have all been producing bites, especially when worked slow and methodically along the cover. White, watermelon/red, and tilapia patterns are also pulling their weight, and don’t overlook a classic topwater first thing in the morning—those explosive hits will jumpstart your day. If you’re live bait fishing, golden shiners are always a solid choice for taking a shot at a trophy Okeechobee bass.

    Bluegill and bream are on the beds, offering nonstop shallow action that’s great for families and a sure bet for filling the cooler. Nightcrawlers, red wigglers, and small crickets are the ticket here. The crappie bite is still sizzling, particularly near bridge pilings and along deeper canal edges—anglers have reported days of 100 to 150 fish, with slabs up to two pounds. Small jigs and live minnows are your best bet.

    Hot spots this week include the Tin House Cove, Indian Prairie, and the point of Horse Island for both bass and panfish. On the main lake, the Shoal area along the west side and the stretch between Buckhead Ridge and Kings Bar are loaded right now. Don’t miss the Kissimmee River for deepwater bass and steady panfish action, and Fisheating Creek is always worth a shot if you want a bit more peace with your fishing.

    For anyone new to the lake or visiting, hiring a local guide is a wise move—they’ll get you on the fish and show you safe routes through the low water. The summer bite’s only getting better from here!

    Thanks for tuning in—make sure to subscribe for the latest from Lake Okeechobee. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease dot ai.
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    3 mins