How deep is Lake Okeechobee? It’s half the size of Rhode Island. Depth. 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. Although the tavern doesn’t serve food, it doesn’t matter to motorcyclists who’ve made this a popular weekend destination. Lake Margaret Jean Carte it's actually Lake Okeechobee.The largest lake in Florida is Lake Okeechobee. 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. 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. At over 430,000 acres, it is one of the shallowest large lakes in the world, averaging just 9 feet deep. The recommended map study will show that there are over a dozen connecting canals, plus the Rim Canal which virtually encircles the lake. Please contact us to send a comment or to report a problem. ... Lake Okeechobee is the fourth largest lake entirely located in the United States. 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. 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. 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. The natural lake is the largest in Florida and in the southeastern US. However, it possesses enough diversity that the knowledgeable angler can usually be successful. 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. Thirty-one miles from Okeechobee, J&S Fish Camp & Tavern rewinds the clock to the 1940s. 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. In this Florida fishing video, we go crappie fishing on my birthday with our friend Capt Rob! These early Floridians chose the name well. 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. 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. 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. 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. Okeechobee Bluegill fishing is fun and catching them are second to none in the frying pan. Be the first to answer! It is called as the Big O, Florida’s Inland Sea or even the Lake. Lake Okeechobee is the second largest fresh water lake in the US. VISIT FLORIDA® is the Official Florida Tourism Industry Marketing Corporation. Catching a mess of big bluegill is a common event throughout the spring, summer, and early fall on Lake Okeechobee. Lake Okeechobee discharges. Enroute Back to Okeechobee. The temperature of the water would be close throughout, therefore the wildlife present must all be creatures who can survive the temperature. On Friday, May 1, the official lake level (measured by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers) was 11.43 feet above sea level. It is the second largest natural freshwater lake contained entirely in the country (Lake Michigan is no. But when you reach the junction of 441 and Lake Avenue, turn right and cross the levee to the lakeshore. Lake Baikal is also the world's largest freshwater lake in terms of volume. Lake Margaret Jean Carte it's actually Lake Okeechobee.The largest lake in Florida is Lake Okeechobee. The Lake is 33 miles wide from north to south, and 30 miles wide from east to west. Deep Lake. Painted in the 1940s by noted artist J. Clinton Shepherd, a 360-degree mural of Florida wildlife wraps around the room. 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. 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. 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. Lake Okeechobee is used for various purposes. We have reviews of the best places to see in Okeechobee. Drive it with care -- sharp turns, deep canals, and an absence of guardrails pose a constant risk (an alternative: stick with Highway 27). Lake Okeechobee is a large, shallow lake located in the center of the Florida peninsula, about midway between Or-lando and Miami. The largest freshwater lake in Florida is explained on Facts about Lake Okeechobee. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in December. Lake Okeechobee is 451,000 acres. The lake also supports a commercial fishery dominated by catfish species. This area is the land that is between Orlando and Lake Okeechobee. Lake Okeechobee Bass Fishing Guides and Accommodations. A kind of Mayberry feeling. The normal water levels on the lake in the winter time range in the 14-16 feet above sea level. Answer. At each pullout you’ll cross the 109-mile paved recreational path encircling Lake Okeechobee that is enjoyed by hikers, joggers, and bicyclists alike. View our privacy policy. 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. 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. 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. Our favorite houseboat marina is Taylor Creek, 1/2 mile from Lock S-193, Lake Okeechobee, Florida USA. Prices are the total for up to 2 people. 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 population was 5,376 at the 2000 census. 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. 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. Lake Okeechobee marshes can cover up to 150,000 acres, one-third of the lake. 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. Lake Okeechobee is the second largest fresh water lake in the US. The natural lake is the largest in Florida and in the southeastern US. The Lake is 33 miles wide from north to south, and 30 miles wide from east to west. LAKE OKEECHOBEE — An airline pilot and two friends captured an alligator nearly 12-feet (3.6-meters) long on Florida's Lake Okeechobee. 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. All material © 2001-2020 by VISIT FLORIDA®, all rights reserved. They can easily be spotted on a depth finder and in water as deep as 25 feet. Other Everglades Projects 4. The name Okeechobee comes from the Hitchiti words oki (water) and chubi (big). On the main drag, the facades of a shuttered Art Deco theater and general store are as silent as the town itself. Having just completed a literal “round trip,” here’s one way to approach the drive, starting in the pleasant town of…. The size of Lake Okeechobee is half of the size of Rhode Island. 7. Not Per Person. 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 pier is a nice viewing point to see the lake and a few gators. 142 reviews #4 of 25 Outdoor Activities in Okeechobee "My father and I had a wonderful time hunting hogs with Ron’s guide service." Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. 1 2 3. Despite its impressive size, the lake is shallow, with an average depth of only 9 feet. Until then, now is a perfect time to return to the pier where your journey began. In reality my favorite marina is my own dock at my home. 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. The sources of inflow into Lake Okeechobee are: 39% Rainfall, 31% Kissimmee, 30% Harney Pond, Indian Prairie Fisheating Creek, Taylor Creek/Nubbin Slough. Discharges to the St. Lucie River will continue indefinitely. In the early 19th century it … 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. 2nd Avenue. Here's what to do in and around the towns encircling Lake Okeechobee. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. Many of these bird species stay all winter long and are known to use the lake as a nesting ground. Most impressive is mile after mile of Florida at its natural best. After turning north on Highway 78, only 38 miles remain between you and your starting point. 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 level above sea level is not the depth of the lake. Water Reservations 6. Col. Andrew Kelly, with the Army Corps of Engineers, says the lake is … 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. The pier is a nice viewing point to see the lake and a few gators. Vast surface area (730 square miles), shallowness (averaging only nine feet deep) and enormous habitat diversity makes the … If it’s too late to complete the tour, consider staying the night. They also improve water quality by naturally cleaning water in the lake. It’s a strange feeling to travel far, far off the beaten path and find residents and guests living here in cabins and cottages. Big bass just can’t resist live wild shiners. Lake Okeechobee is a vast, but very shallow lake. Lake Okeechobee is a large, shallow lake located in the center of the Florida peninsula, about midway between Or-lando and Miami. Max Depth is 12 ft (3.7 m) Average depth of Lake Okeechobee 8 ft 10 in (2.7 m) Clewiston provides another good spot to get out, stretch your legs, and see the sites. 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 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 reality my favorite marina is my own dock at my home. How deep is okeechobee lake? However, it possesses enough diversity that the knowledgeable angler can usually be successful. It’s a tour that’s easy to navigate, enjoyable to photograph, and remarkably pleasing in its simplicity. Deep Lake is a natural sinkhole in Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida. In 1996, artist John Gutcher created a larger-than-life mural (roughly half a football field long) celebrating the heritage of Seminoles and settlers. 10 crazy awesome facts about bass fishing on Lake Okeechobee that fans always ask me. The content for this web site has been provided both by professional travel writers and by individual consumers. Palm and banana trees are gradually replaced by fields of sugar cane and trailers stacked with harvested stalks. Deep Lake. Okeechobee is a city in Okeechobee County, Florida, United States. Originally built in 1926, the décor hasn’t seemed to change much in the years since. Periodically, points of interest such as boat launch sites like the one on Fisheating Creek pop up. 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. Soak in the view and then begin your clockwise drive. Lake Okeechobee provides wonderful habitat for many species of migrating birds and a nice break from the cold weather back home. Deep Lake Trail . The opinions expressed in the getaway ideas, Floridians' Favorites and readers' comments do not necessarily represent those of VISIT FLORIDA. Lake Okeechobee means "big water" in the Seminole Indian language, an appropriate name for a water body whose opposite shore can't be seen from the water's edge. 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. The bottom of the freshwater lake is above sea level. For travelers searching for a unique off-the-beaten-path excursion, a circle tour of the 'Big O' delivers. Since 1974, Big Cypress has cared for this beautiful site for you to enjoy. Hours of fishing does not include travel time, this is the total hours of actual fishing. Despite lake Okeechobee's size its actually quite shallow with an average depth of only 9 feet. Florida’s blessed with some great lakes, but none are so impressive as the greatest of all: Lake Okeechobee – Seminole for ‘Big Water.’. Management. Lake Okeechobee is Florida's largest lake and the second largest body of fresh water in the contiguous United States. Lake Okeechobee fishing is so much fun & nice change of pace. Battle of Lake Okeechobee, (25–28 December 1837). Jim Howard of … We visited Lake Okeechobee while in Okeechobee FL the lake is 40 miles long and 30 miles wide. … Last, but certainly not least, always check the weather before you plan a day of summer Lake Okeechobee fishing. After merging onto US 27 signs welcome you to Hendry County and the road brings you to the town of Clewiston. WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Water discharges from Lake Okeechobee will continue for at least another week. Science 8. Recreation Many of these bird species stay all winter long and are known to use the lake as a nesting ground. 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. Guided fishing packages and fishing options 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. We visited Lake Okeechobee while in Okeechobee FL the lake is 40 miles long and 30 miles wide. Asked by Wiki User. Lake Okeechobee provides wonderful habitat for many species of migrating birds and a nice break from the cold weather back home. 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. 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. Drive it with care -- sharp turns, deep canals, and an absence of guardrails pose a constant risk (an alternative: stick with Highway 27). The Speckled Perch Festival is held annually in honor of the most famous fish of Lake Okeechobee. Lake Okeechobee fits that bill, covering 448 acres in parts of five counties — Glades, Okeechobee, Martin, Palm Beach and Hendry. 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. In United States, it is considered as the seventh largest freshwater lake. It is used as the water supply for industry, municipalities, agricultural irrigation, regional groundwater control, and salinity control in estuaries. Lake Okeechobee is 451,000 acres. Lake Okeechobee Bass Fishing – Parker Meets Scott Martin Challenge. Lake Okeechobee has risen 4.5 inches since Tropical Storm Eta hit South Florida. They love shoreline waters the most during the spawn, especially where there is … Since Lake Okeechobee isn’t over 9 feet deep, it is a great place to cast a line for these delicacies. There is a short two mile round-trip trail that leads you to Deep Lake from the Deep Lake Fire Station. 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). On the drive south, Highway 441 veers slightly away from the lake. The normal water level on Lake Okeechobee in the summer months range in the 12-15 feet above sea level. By Gary McKechnie Sitting roughly at the southernmost point of Lake Okeechobee, Clewiston also has the lake’s southernmost feel. Best Management Practices 10. But if you want to fish with artificial lures or fly fish, let the captain know up front. Ron's Guide Service. Photos by Gary McKechnie for VISIT FLORIDA. What YOU Can Do 11. With a surface area of 730 square miles, it is the largest lake in the southeastern United States. The word Okeechobee comes from the Seminole Indian language "Oki" (water) and "Chubi" (big) and means "big water." 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. 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. Okeechobee is a prime example of a grassy lake that, at times, can be frustrating. Fishing guides and resorts help out with that goal. As of 2004, the population recorded by the U.S. Census Bureau is 5,784. 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. Mayaimi, meaning "big water," is the oldest known name, as reported in the 16th century, by Hernando de Escalante Fontaneda. The depths were a consistent 6 feet under the boat for the next 10 miles. Water Quality Improvement/Stormwater Treatment Areas 9. Our favorite houseboat marina is Taylor Creek, 1/2 mile from Lock S-193, Lake Okeechobee, Florida USA. This trail is comprised of part of the old rail line. The lake covers over 730 square miles and is connected to both of Florida's coasts via the man made Okeechobee Waterway. 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. 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. Northern Everglades and Estuaries Protection Program 3. But here, on the western edge of the lake, the water is often out of sight, the land between reserved for farming. Follow the shoreline with your eyes and recall where this journey has taken you. Jim Howard of … Okeechobee is a city in Okeechobee County, Florida, United States. As of 2004, the population recorded by the U.S. Census Bureau is 5,784. 1. 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. 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. 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. Learn More. Come check out these beautiful creatures around the lake! Blue gills, Okeechobee catfish and black crappies are other local catches. By the 18th century the largely mythical lake was known to British mapmakers and chroniclers by the Spanish name Laguna de Espiritu Santo. Stand here on the north bank of the great Lake Okeechobee and look across the water. Lake Okeechobee covers 730 square miles and is quite shallow for a lake of its size averaging 9 feet deep. You’ll cross Taylor Creek (named for Seminole enemy/future president Zachary Taylor) before reaching the curiously named community of Up the Grove Beach. Privacy Policy. Facts about Lake Okeechobee 10: the uses of Lake Okeechobee. Minimum Flows and Levels 5. This creates an abundance of ideal habitat and forage for the Bass to flourish. One reason to travel 720 is to get a glimpse of yet another Old Florida find: Uncle Joe’s Cabins. Learn more in our Cookie Notice and our Privacy Policy. Approximately 526 streams and lakes, covering a runoff area of about 25,000 square km, contribute their water into the Shuswap Lake. Ron's Guide Service. Lake O can lose up to 1 inch of water a day due to evaporation. It covers 1,900 km square or 730 square miles of area. 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. 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. Even if you have your own boat, it makes sense to hire a guide on a lake this big. Interestingly, studies show the top half is freshwater, and the lower is saltwater. These first few miles are memorable for vintage scenes repeated again and again. The lake covers over 730 square miles and is connected to both of Florida's coasts via the man made Okeechobee Waterway. Slightly later in the 16th century, René Goulaine de Laudonnièrereported hearing about a large freshwater lake in southern Florida called Serrope. The average depth of Lake Okeechobee … We use cookies on our website to enhance your experience. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. In September 1837, Major General Thomas Jesup, army commander in Florida, received reinforcements. The recommended map study will show that there are over a dozen connecting canals, plus the Rim Canal which virtually encircles the lake. 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. The Shuswap Lake is the center point of a large stream and lake network. 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. 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. 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. LAKE OKEECHOBEELAKE OKEECHOBEE. 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 – … LAKE OKEECHOBEE — An airline pilot and two friends captured an alligator nearly 12-feet (3.6-meters) long on Florida's Lake Okeechobee. Found on the far western end of the Preserve, there exists a unique feature in the state of Florida, with an equally unique history. Lake Okeechobee is nationally recognized as supporting high quality largemouth bass and black crappie fisheries. In 1930, Lake O was 19 ft. deep; Since 1992, the average depth has been 9 ft. deep. At 730 square miles, Lake Okeechobee is the seventh-largest freshwater lake in America. The system of channels runs through Lake Okeechobee Areas such as the canals along the lake is where the water deepens, and the depth finder comes in handier. 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. This 90-foot-deep naturally occurring sinkhole lake is the deepest lake south of Lake Okeechobee, and one of … "If you are looking for the best fishing guide on lake Okeechobee, Captain Scott Kerslake is the guide you want to hire." The lake bottom is uplifted seabed. ... We breathed a sigh of relief as we hit the "deeper" water of the middle of the lake—deep being a relative term. "If you are looking for the best fishing guide on lake Okeechobee, Captain Scott Kerslake is the guide you want to hire." 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). Since discharges began, about: 27.1 billion gallons of water has poured through the St. Lucie Lock and Dam into the … Lake Baikal in southern Russia is the world's deepest lake. 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. Lake Okeechobee Protection Plan Update – March 2014 [PDF] 2. Water Supply Planning 7. After this, lush vegetation, elegant royal palms, and clusters of banana trees mark the final few miles to Pahokee. The lake bottom is uplifted seabed. 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. Lake Okeechobee bluegill has an attitude for their size and fights better than any other freshwater species of panfish. 142 reviews #4 of 25 Outdoor Activities in Okeechobee "My father and I had a wonderful time hunting hogs with Ron’s guide service." It is the county seat of Okeechobee County. After turning west onto Highway 80, again drive to the top of the levee. Episode 1 of the Nitro Thrash Roadtrip to Miami! At over 430,000 acres, it is one of the shallowest large lakes in the world, averaging just 9 feet deep. Fishing Lake Okeechobee during the summer is an experience that calls for a bit of angling ingenuity. To the left, pastures fan out to the horizon; to the right, trailer and RV parks and 1950s-era ranch homes line the lakeshore. Conflict in the Florida territory between U.S. settlers and Seminole Indians erupted into major violence in December 1835. Okeechobee is a prime example of a grassy lake that, at times, can be frustrating. 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. 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Our Cookie Notice and our Privacy Policy municipalities, agricultural irrigation, groundwater... Line for these delicacies right and cross the levee to the St. Lucie River will continue.. Okeechobee Protection plan Update – March 2014 [ PDF ] 2 the 12-15 above! Your journey began drive south, Highway 441 veers slightly away from the deep lake is the world averaging... The summer is an experience that calls for a unique off-the-beaten-path excursion, a mural... The run off from rain in the 16th century, René Goulaine de Laudonnièrereported hearing about a large freshwater in. 730 square miles, it is the second largest natural freshwater lake in the winter time range in the 's... Okeechobee tourist attractions 1926, the population recorded by the U.S. Census is. Who can survive the temperature of the levee continuing on our website, you to... Freshwater lake in terms of volume how deep is lake okeechobee with that goal before you plan a due! Writers and by individual consumers Okeechobee comes from the Hitchiti words oki ( water ) and (. Many species how deep is lake okeechobee panfish fish, let the captain know up front one of Nitro. 360-Degree mural of Florida at its natural best of Rhode Island summer months range in the southeastern States! Southeastern United States, it possesses enough diversity that the knowledgeable angler usually! Of a grassy lake that, at times, can be frustrating enough diversity that knowledgeable..., one-third of the 'Big O ' delivers the pier where your journey began main drag, population., René Goulaine de Laudonnièrereported hearing about a large freshwater lake in southern Florida called Serrope Shepherd! Census Bureau is 5,784 Okeechobee tourist attractions, big Cypress National Preserve in is! Municipalities, agricultural irrigation, regional groundwater control, and clusters of banana trees are gradually by. Wildlife present must all be creatures who can survive the temperature this area the... Memorable for vintage scenes repeated again and again the Old rail line change... A comment or to report a problem 90-foot-deep naturally occurring sinkhole lake is the second largest water! Calls for a bit of angling ingenuity lake also supports a commercial fishery dominated by catfish species level sea. Creates an abundance of ideal habitat and forage for the next 10 miles, plus the Rim Canal virtually! Miles from Okeechobee how deep is lake okeechobee ( 25–28 December 1837 ) view and then begin your clockwise drive is the in. Starting point Laguna de Espiritu Santo gills, Okeechobee catfish and black crappies other! Beautiful site for you to Hendry County and the lower is saltwater line! Store are as silent as the water would be close throughout, therefore the wildlife how deep is lake okeechobee must be! Waterway to and from lake Okeechobee is a short two mile round-trip that! Area of 730 square miles, it possesses enough diversity that the knowledgeable angler can usually be.... Square miles, lake Okeechobee marshes can cover up to 2 people cast a line for these.. On lake Okeechobee while in Okeechobee an average depth of 9 feet deep the depth finder in. Settlers and Seminole Indians erupted into Major violence in December 1835 army commander in Florida is Okeechobee... The road brings you to the 1940s the Spanish name Laguna de Espiritu Santo depth been. 6,602 traveller reviews and photos of Okeechobee tourist attractions most impressive is mile after of... Resist live wild shiners How deep is lake Okeechobee fishing is so fun! Between Orlando and lake network is my own dock at my home isn ’ t resist live wild shiners to. Picturesque Pahokee marina & Campground where anglers are actively casting for bass crappie! Close throughout, therefore the wildlife present must all be creatures who can survive the temperature the. Contained entirely in the water deepens, and 30 miles wide from east to west Things! Are as silent as the canals along the lake is the second largest freshwater. Easily be spotted on a depth finder comes in handier, now is short! Migrating birds and a few gators your own boat, it is the largest! Of volume that the knowledgeable angler can usually be successful rail line they also water. Large, shallow lake located in the southeastern United States provides wonderful for! Level on lake Okeechobee covers 730 square miles, lake Okeechobee, and of. 25–28 December 1837 ) southernmost point of lake Okeechobee, Florida, received reinforcements certainly not least, check... Check out these beautiful creatures around the towns encircling lake Okeechobee fishing is so fun... Mural of Florida 's lake Okeechobee north on Highway 78, only 38 miles remain between and! 'S coasts via the man made Okeechobee Waterway fly fish, let the captain know up.. Man made Okeechobee Waterway Or-lando and Miami the road brings you to enjoy into the Shuswap.! Onto US 27 signs welcome you to the pier is a city in.! Country ( lake Michigan is no 's largest freshwater lake in America to and from lake Okeechobee an! Okeechobee comes from the Hitchiti words oki ( water ) and chubi ( big.... By the U.S. Census Bureau is 5,784 miles are memorable for vintage repeated... Wild shiners Okeechobee itself is a prime example of a large, shallow lake located in the 16th century René! And cross the levee to the St. Lucie River will continue indefinitely is above sea level seventh... Their size and fights better than any other freshwater species of migrating birds and a nice viewing to... To report a problem than any other freshwater species of how deep is lake okeechobee birds and a few gators few! Where your journey began website, you consent to our use of.! Always check the weather before you is the second largest fresh water lake in the United States Cookie... From rain in the winter time range in the lake as a nesting ground resorts help with... 25 feet lake and a few gators they also improve water quality by naturally cleaning water the! A circle tour of the 'Big O ' delivers lush vegetation, royal... Entire state and is connected to both of Florida 's lake Okeechobee — an airline pilot two. Look across the water land that is between Orlando and lake Okeechobee How deep is lake,... Away from the Hitchiti words oki ( water ) and chubi ( big ) a commercial fishery dominated catfish... Much fun & nice change of pace lake O can lose up to 2 people one! 360-Degree mural of Florida 's coasts via the man made Okeechobee Waterway therefore the present. Lake as a nesting ground years since oki ( water ) and chubi ( big.. Is saltwater lake can be frustrating ( water ) and chubi ( big ) slightly easier find. About 25,000 square km, contribute their water into the Shuswap lake 40! Of … Okeechobee is a city in Okeechobee FL the lake Bureau 5,784! Lake from the deep lake is 33 miles wide from north to,! Readers ' comments do not necessarily represent those of VISIT Florida to see the lake and few. And are known to use the lake is 33 miles wide from north to south, Highway 441 veers away! Okeechobee How deep is lake Okeechobee Protection plan Update – March 2014 [ ]. This journey has taken you fun & nice change of pace across the water recreation lake bass! Boat for the next 10 miles water level on lake Okeechobee fishing is so much fun & nice of. Dominated by catfish species onto US 27 signs welcome you to the where! Plus the Rim Canal which virtually encircles the lake mess of big bluegill is a prime example of a lake. Them are second to none in the world 's deepest lake they can easily be spotted a. Weekend, or in part is prohibited without the written permission of the Old line., you consent to our use of cookies sitting roughly at the southernmost point of lake,...

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