December in Florida is a great time for fishing. With the weather still comfortably warm and the winter waters providing plenty of opportunities, anglers from around the world come to enjoy the sport. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s plenty of good spots to find something to catch. Here are some of the best places to fish in Florida during December.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Located in the Florida Keys, the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park offers 72 miles of shoreline and a variety of fish to target. There are a number of different species of fish to be found, including grouper, snapper, barracuda, and more. The waters in this area are relatively shallow, with depths ranging from 5 to 20 feet, making it a great spot for beginner anglers. The best bait to use in this area is live bait, such as shrimp and minnows.
Lake Okeechobee
Lake Okeechobee is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the United States, and it’s a great spot for anglers of all skill levels. It’s home to a variety of game fish, including largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. The lake is well-stocked with baitfish that attract the larger predators, making it a great place for trophy fishing. The lake is also well-known for its abundance of shad, making it a great spot for fly-fishing.
The Ponce Inlet
The Ponce Inlet is located near Daytona Beach and is a great spot for inshore fishing. The inlet is a popular spot for anglers of all skill levels, as there are a variety of fish to catch, including redfish, sea trout, flounder, and more. Live shrimp and minnows are the best baits to use in this area. The current in this area is usually quite strong, so anglers should be mindful of their line when fishing.
Dozier’s Point
Dozier’s Point is a well-known fishing spot in Florida and is located near Jacksonville. The area is known for its abundance of tarpon, which can be found in the waters year-round. It’s also home to a variety of other game fish such as snook, redfish, trout, and more. Live bait is the best way to target these fish, and there are plenty of bait shops in the area to purchase the necessary supplies.
Sebastian Inlet
The Sebastian Inlet is a popular spot for anglers of all skill levels. It is home to a variety of game fish, such as snook, tarpon, redfish, and sea trout. The inlet has a strong current, so anglers should use caution when fishing. Live bait is the best option, as it is more likely to attract the larger predators. The area is well-stocked with baitfish, making it a great spot for fly-fishing as well.
Cedar Key
Cedar Key is located near Gainesville and is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This area is known for its abundance of redfish and sea trout, which can be found in the shallows of the many creeks and estuaries in the area. Live shrimp and minnows are the best option when fishing in this area, and there are plenty of bait shops in the area to purchase the necessary supplies.
Islamorada
Islamorada is located in the Florida Keys and is a great spot for inshore fishing. This area is known for its abundance of game fish, such as tarpon, snook, and more. Live bait is the best option when fishing in this area, and there are plenty of bait shops in the area to purchase the necessary supplies. Islamorada is also well-known for its deep-sea fishing opportunities, so anglers should take advantage of these opportunities while they’re in the area.
Anclote Key Preserve State Park
The Anclote Key Preserve State Park is located near Tarpon Springs and is home to a variety of game fish, including redfish, snook, and sea trout. This area is also known for its abundance of tarpon and permit, which can be targeted with live bait. There are plenty of bait shops in the area to purchase the necessary supplies, and anglers should take advantage of the nearby beaches when fishing in this area.
Conclusion
The great weather and plentiful fishing opportunities make Florida a great destination for anglers of all skill levels during December. Whether you’re looking to catch trophy fish or just to enjoy the great outdoors, these are some of the best spots to fish in Florida during December. So grab your gear, get out there, and enjoy the sport!