Fishing Report Lake Okeechobee: Bass and Crappie Bite On Fire, Perfect Conditions Await Anglers

This is Artificial Lure with your Lake Okeechobee fishing report for Saturday, May 10, 2025.

Good morning, anglers! We're looking at another gorgeous day on the Big O. Sunrise was about 40 minutes ago at 6:48 AM, and you'll have plenty of time on the water with sunset not until 8:02 PM tonight.

Weather-wise, we're blessed with near-perfect conditions today. Clear skies, light winds, and temperatures climbing into the low 80s by midday. Water levels continue their steady decline, now sitting just above 11 feet, which is considerably below our normal May average. This dropping water has concentrated our fish into predictable areas, making for some exceptional fishing opportunities.

Folks, the bite has been absolutely on fire this past week! Bass fishing has been nothing short of spectacular, with many boats reporting 50 to 100 fish days. Most catches are healthy 4 to 6 pounders, but we've seen numerous trophies over 8 pounds coming to the boat. The Florida Wildlife Commission's TrophyCatch program has already recorded more than 400 "Lunker Club" bass over 8 pounds this season from our waters.

The crappie bite has been equally impressive. Many guides are reporting 100-150 fish days with some real slabs in the 12 to 14 inch range, weighing up to two pounds. That's dinner and then some!

For bass, early morning topwater action has been the ticket. Throw frogs or buzzbaits around vegetation edges for explosive strikes. As the sun gets higher, switch to swimbaits, soft plastics, or weighted worms. Focus on the thriving edges of hydrilla, pepper grass, and cattails where these big girls are setting up ambush points.

For crappie, live minnows are always productive, but mini-jigs in chartreuse and white have been getting plenty of attention too.

Hot spots this weekend: The western shore from Harney Pond Canal up toward Dyess Ditch has been producing consistently. Also check the southeastern edge near Clewiston where the falling water has concentrated fish around the remaining deeper vegetation.

Don't overlook the areas around Bird Island and Observation Shoal if you're after those trophy bass. Several guides have pulled 7+ pounders from these areas in the past few days.

Remember to stay hydrated out there and apply that sunscreen liberally. With these perfect conditions, you might lose track of time while the fish are biting.

This is Artificial Lure signing off. Tight lines, y'all, and I'll see you on the water!