Bass Whisper Guide
HomeTrips & RatesGalleryReviewsReportsTarget SpeciesMeet the Guide

Learn More

My Trips

  1. All Trips
  2. /Private Trips
Beginner Lake Okeechobee Fishing | Bass Whisper
Beginner Lake Okeechobee Fishing | Bass Whisper
Largemouth Bass caught while fishing in FL
Angler fishing in the South Bay
A person fishing in South Bay
Peacock bass caught fishing in South Bay
Angler fishing in Florida
A person fishing in FL
Person fishing in South Bay
Person fishing in South Bay
Two people fishing for a largemouth bass in South Bay
Angler with fishing rod in South Bay
BOOK THIS TRIP
TRENDING NOW

Beginner Lake Okeechobee Fishing | Bass Whisper

locationLake Okeechobee

What you will be catching:

  • Largemouth BassLargemouth Bass
  • Peacock BassPeacock Bass

Trip Pricing and Availabilities :

No trip pricing information available at this time.

Reel in Fun on Lake Okeechobee's Beginner Charter

Ready to wet a line on the Big O? Captain JP McKay's got you covered with this laid-back 8-hour trip that's perfect for first-timers or anyone looking to kick back and enjoy some quality fishing time. You'll be targeting trophy Largemouth Bass, colorful Peacock Bass, and a mix of panfish that'll keep your rod bent all day long. No need to stress about gear or know-how – the captain's got all the tackle you need and he'll show you the ropes as you go. It's fishing made easy on Florida's most famous lake.

What's the Deal with This Trip?

Picture this: You're cruising across Lake Okeechobee's vast waters, the sun's warming up, and you've got a cold drink in hand. Captain JP's at the helm, pointing out prime fishing spots and sharing local stories. Whether you're a total newbie or just want a chill day on the water, this trip's got you covered. You'll learn the basics of casting, setting the hook, and reeling in some of Florida's most sought-after freshwater fish. And don't worry about bringing anything fancy – all the rods, reels, and lures are provided. Just bring your sunscreen, a hat, and a good attitude, and you're set for a day of laid-back angling action.

Fishing 101: Lake O Style

On this trip, you'll get hands-on with some classic bass fishing techniques. Captain JP will show you how to work a plastic worm through the grass, walk a topwater lure across the surface, and maybe even flip a jig into some thick cover. If you're into using live bait, no worries – you can grab some native shiners or wild golden shiners before the trip (they're like bass candy). The boat's decked out with all the latest electronics to help find the fish, and there's plenty of room for you to cast comfortably. As you're learning the ropes, keep an eye out for gators sunning on the banks or Ospreys diving for their own catch – Lake Okeechobee's got a whole ecosystem to check out while you're waiting for that next bite.

Fish You'll Want to Hook

Largemouth Bass: These are the headliners of Lake Okeechobee, and for good reason. They grow big here – we're talking potential double-digit weights. Spring's usually prime time when they're in the shallows, but you can catch 'em year-round. Nothing beats the heart-pounding thrill when a big bass slams your lure and starts thrashing on the surface.

Peacock Bass: These gorgeous fish aren't native, but they've made themselves right at home in South Florida. With their vibrant colors and aggressive strikes, peacocks are a blast to catch. They love warm water, so summer and early fall are your best bets. Don't let their size fool you – pound for pound, they fight harder than their largemouth cousins.

Panfish Bonanza: While bass might be the stars, don't sleep on the panfish action. Bluegill, crappie (we call 'em speckled perch down here), and even the odd oscar can provide non-stop action. These are perfect for keeping kids entertained or just enjoying some light-tackle fun. Plus, they make for some mighty fine eating if you're looking to take home dinner.

Why Folks Keep Coming Back

Lake Okeechobee isn't called the "Big O" for nothing – it's massive, and that means there's always somewhere new to explore. Captain JP knows this lake like the back of his hand, from the grass-filled shallows to the deeper offshore haunts. Each trip is a little different, depending on the season, water levels, and where the fish are biting. But one thing stays the same: the chance to unplug, enjoy some Florida sunshine, and maybe land the biggest fish of your life. Whether you're out here to learn the basics, introduce your kids to fishing, or just escape the grind for a day, this trip delivers the goods without any fuss or pressure.

Time to Get Your Lines Wet

So, you ready to give Lake Okeechobee fishing a shot? This beginner-friendly charter with Captain JP is the perfect way to dip your toes in the water (figuratively speaking, of course). You'll learn some skills, catch some fish, and come away with a new appreciation for why so many people get hooked on fishing. Whether you're a local looking for a new weekend activity or a visitor wanting to experience authentic Florida, this trip's got you covered. Don't let another season slip by – book your spot now and get ready to make some waves on the Big O!

Learn more about the species

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass are the kings of Lake Okeechobee, usually running 2-10 pounds but some monsters pushing 20+. Look for them around weeds, sunken logs, and drop-offs. They love ambushing prey, so cast near cover. Spring's best when they're spawning in the shallows, but you can catch 'em year-round. These fish put up a great fight - they'll dive for cover or leap clear out of the water. Anglers love 'em for the challenge and tasty fillets. For beginners, I recommend starting with a Texas-rigged plastic worm. Work it slowly along the bottom near vegetation. When you feel that telltale "thump," set the hook hard and hang on! Big bass have big mouths, so don't be shy with lure size. Local tip: On sunny days, try flipping jigs under docks or mats - that shade is like bass air conditioning.

Largemouth Bass

Peacock Bass

Peacock Bass are a sight to behold with their vibrant colors and aggressive nature. Most run 2-4 pounds, but 10-pounders aren't unheard of. Unlike their namesake, these aren't true bass - they're actually cichlids. You'll find them in warmer, shallower areas of the lake, especially near structure like fallen trees or canal mouths. They're most active in the heat of summer when other fish slow down. Peacocks hit hard and fight like crazy, often leaping multiple times. Anglers love 'em for the excitement and their exotic looks. Live shiners are peacock candy, but they'll smash topwater lures too. Try walking a Zara Spook across the surface - the commotion drives 'em nuts. Local tip: If you see peacocks following but not biting, switch to a faster retrieve. Sometimes you gotta make 'em angry to get the strike.

Peacock Bass

About the Storm (Bass boat)

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 2

Manufacturer Name: Mercury Pro XS

Maximum Cruising Speed: 45

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Hop aboard Captain JP McKay's comfy boat for a laid-back day of fishing on Lake Okeechobee. This 8-hour trip is perfect if you're new to fishing or just want to chill out on the water. You'll get the chance to reel in some Largemouth Bass, Peacock Bass, and even smaller fish like Bream and Oscars. Don't worry about bringing gear – Captain JP's got you covered with all the rods, reels, and lures you'll need. He'll show you the ropes and give you easy tips throughout the day, so you can learn at your own pace. If you're into using live bait, you can grab some Native Shiners or Wild Golden Shiners locally before heading out. It's a great way to get your feet wet in the fishing world while soaking up the beautiful lake views. Bring a friend along and make some cool memories on the water!
Bass Whisper Guide

Follow Us

Facebook

Navigate

Home

Trips & Rates

Gallery

Reviews

Reports

Target Species

Meet the Guide

Gift Card

FAQ

Contact Us

FEATURED

Peacock Pursuit

Peacock Catch

Lake Bass Hunt

Bass Bonanza

Okeechobee Fun

License

The Everglades

Things To Do

Premier Lake Okeechobee Fishing

Here's your chance to dominate the bass fishing game like never before! Experience the unbeatable expertise of Guide JP McKay and conquer Lake Okeechobee. Book your adventure today and unleash your inner Bass Whisperer - limited spots available, so don't delay!

More about Bass Whisper Guide

© Copyright 2026. All rights reserved.

Powered by Guidesly

Privacy Policy

Sitemap

previous-image
Person fishing in South Bay

Largemouth beauty from Lake Okeechobee

Person fishing in South Bay

Bass fishing day well spent on Okeechobee

Two people fishing for a largemouth bass in South Bay

Lake Okeechobee bass action in full swing

Angler with fishing rod in South Bay

Big bass morning on Lake Okeechobee

Largemouth Bass caught while fishing in FL

Florida largemouth highlight from Lake O

Angler fishing in the South Bay

Calm water bass fun on Okeechobee

A person fishing in South Bay

Okeechobee bass putting up a great fight

Peacock bass caught fishing in South Bay

Lake Okeechobee producing quality bites

Angler fishing in Florida

Florida bass moment on Lake O

A person fishing in FL

Steady bass action across Lake Okeechobee

Person fishing in South Bay

Largemouth beauty from Lake Okeechobee

Person fishing in South Bay

Bass fishing day well spent on Okeechobee

Two people fishing for a largemouth bass in South Bay

Lake Okeechobee bass action in full swing

Angler with fishing rod in South Bay

Big bass morning on Lake Okeechobee

Largemouth Bass caught while fishing in FL

Florida largemouth highlight from Lake O

Angler fishing in the South Bay

Calm water bass fun on Okeechobee

A person fishing in South Bay

Okeechobee bass putting up a great fight

Peacock bass caught fishing in South Bay

Lake Okeechobee producing quality bites

Angler fishing in Florida

Florida bass moment on Lake O

A person fishing in FL

Steady bass action across Lake Okeechobee

Person fishing in South Bay

Largemouth beauty from Lake Okeechobee

Person fishing in South Bay

Bass fishing day well spent on Okeechobee

Two people fishing for a largemouth bass in South Bay

Lake Okeechobee bass action in full swing

Angler with fishing rod in South Bay

Big bass morning on Lake Okeechobee

next-image