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Orlando Bass Fishing Guide

Jason George
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Orlando Bass Fishing Guide

In this Orlando bass fishing guide, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about Orlando bass fishing. 

What comes to mind when you think about Orlando? If you’re like most people, you probably think about theme parks, golf courses, and fun in the sun. After all, Orlando is the land of Mickey Mouse, massive resorts, and a whole lot of sightseers. 

But what most people don’t know is that Orlando is also a great place to go fishing. In fact, Orlando bass fishing is some of the best in the state. If you’re looking to land a lunker bass, Orlando is a great place to go. 

Ready? 

Let’s dive in. 

Orlando Bass Fishing Guides

If you want to catch a trophy bass in Orlando, you’re probably going to need a guide/charter. You need someone who has a significant amount of experience catching lunker largemouth bass. Someone who knows the Orlando bass fishing lakes inside and out. Someone who knows where to fish, when to fish, and how to fish. Without a guide, you may end up spending hours and hours on the water and still not catch the trophy fish you’re after. 

Best Bass Charter In Florida
Chuck Pippin Charter Captain

One such guide who meets all these qualifications is Chuck Pippin. With over 19 years as an Orlando bass fishing guide, Chuck certainly knows where to locate the big ones. He spends over 300 days every year on the water, and specializes in using artificial lures. However, if you want to use golden shiners to catch trophy largemouth bass, you can do that too. 

Perhaps most important of all, Chuck is determined to help anglers have an amazing experience on the water. His “no fish, no pay” policy ensures that you’ll get the absolute best service possible. 

And if you’re staying in an Orlando or Kissimmee hotel or resort, free transportation is usually available. 

Orlando Bass Fishing Guide To Lakes

Despite being a relatively well-developed area, Orlando has numerous outstanding bass fishing lakes, all capable of producing huge fish. Simply put, you don’t have to drive far from Orlando to find great bass fishing. 

Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho)

Located in Kissimmee, which is only 18 miles south of Orlando, Lake Toho has long been known as a stellar bass fishing lake. It achieved notoriety when, in 2001, professional angler Dean Rojas set a new B.A.S.S. tournament total weight record, hauling in a whopping 108 pounds of largemouth bass. In total, 21 bass over 10 pounds were caught and 251 individuals reached the fish-fish limit. But don’t think these kinds of results are only limited to tournaments. Anglers regularly pull trophy fish from the waters of Lake Toho. 

West Lake Toho Bass Fishing Map
West Lake Toho Bass Fishing Map by Mark Evans

Why is the lake so productive? Several reasons. First, there is plenty of cover for the fish. Second, the water is absolutely full of nutrients. Third, the consistently warm weather allows the bass to stay active longer and grow larger. It’s the perfect recipe for big bass in large numbers. 

The lake is 18,800 acres so if you are looking to catch huge bass or lots of them the best thing to do is hire a lake Toho fishing guide.

Lake Butler (Butler Chain Of Lakes)

Located just nine miles from Disney World, Lake Butler is a fantastic place to go hunting for largemouth bass. A lot of people think the butler chain is fishing in Disney World. Lake Butler is actually a series of 11 interconnected lakes sprawling over 4,720 acres in Orlando. It’s important to note that boat access to Lake Butler is limited to one county ramp at Lake Isleworth. It costs $5/day or $150/year to use the ramp. 

Butler Chain Bass Fishing Map
Butler Chain Bass Fishing Map

By fishing the offshore structures in the lakes, anglers can consistently catch five-pound bass. Another popular and effective method is free-lining shiners over drop-offs, ledges, humps, and grass edges, especially those near to spawning flats. When the air and water get colder and the fish gather in groups, jigging spoons over deep-water humps can be tremendously effective. 

Lake Conway (Conway Chain of Lakes)

Like Lake Butler, Lake Conway is a series of interconnected lakes (or pools). There is a north pool, south pool, east pool, and west pool. It’s located in the southern Orlando area, approximately 13 miles from Disney World. There are two boat ramps available to the public, with the largest located off Hoffner Avenue. 

Spanning over 1,800 acres, the Conway Chain of Lakes has beautifully clear water and hard sand bottoms. Patches of hydrilla, eelgrass, and peppergrass can be found throughout the lake. 

Lake Conway Sunrise
Lake Conway Boat Ramp

During the dead of summer, it can be a bit harder to catch bass in the Conway Chain of Lakes due to the fact that the bass suspend in deeper water. During other times of the year, however, fishing is excellent. This is especially true during the late fall and early winter when the bass travel in schools. When cold, post-front conditions move in, bass can be caught from these schools. 

To locate the schooling bass, watch for birds feeding offshore. When you spot a school of bass, try using topwater lures, soft jerkbaits, jigging spoons, or white spinnerbaits. 

Lake Kissimmee (Kissimmee Chain of Lakes)

Situated 29 miles from Disney World, Lake Kissimmee is the largest lake in the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. Covering approximately 36,700 acres, the lake is known for producing trophy largemouth bass. There are boat ramps at various points along the lakeshore. 

Populated by a variety of wildlife, it’s not uncommon to see bald eagles, whitetail deer, turkeys, and maybe even a bobcat. The surrounding area is an undeveloped state wildlife area and protected wetlands, presenting a truly glorious and secluded environment for anglers. 

Lake Kissimmee Guide Fishing In the Grass

Large expanses of aquatic grass can be found at Brahma Island, Tiger Cove, North Cove, and Philadelphia point. These stands of grass are the perfect place to fish for bass during winter and spring. Plastic baits, crankbaits, and golden shiners work well in these areas. If fly fishing is your preference, there are miles of shoreline for you to explore. 

Lake Walk-In-Water (Lake Weohyakapka)

Spanning 7,528 acres, Lake Walk-In-Water is a fantastic place to catch trophy bass in Orlando. Also known as Lake Weohyakapka, the lake is clear, and on calm days when the water is smooth, you can see the bottom even without wearing polarized sunglasses. Cattails, bulrushes, Kissimmee grass, shrimp grass, eelgrass, and hydrilla provide plenty of cover for bass. 

If you want to use live bait, drifting shiners around offshore ledges regularly produces good catches. Topwater artificial baits also work particularly well. If you’re fishing around the docks in shallow water, consider using a jig. If you’re fishing a bit deeper, a rattletrap or crankbait can be especially productive. 

One of the reasons Lake Walk-In-Water consistently produces large bass is that the State of Florida Fish and Game Commission has imposed a catch-and-release program. Any bass between 15 and 24 inches long must be put back immediately. You can keep three bass that are less than 15 inches or two bass less than 15 inches and one greater than 24 inches. This strict program has allowed the bass in the lake to grow large. 

Stick Marsh/Farm 13

Located about 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Orlando, Stick Marsh/Farm 13 is a 6,700-acre reservoir is known for producing big largemouth bass. Created in 1987, it was heavily stocked with both bass and crappie. It opened in 1990, and since then it has been a favorite of Florida bass anglers. The reservoir has many man-made and natural objects in it, which offer cover for bass but present hazards to boaters. If you’re not familiar with the area, use caution when fishing it. 

The best times to fish Stick Marsh/Farm 13 are in the early morning and late evening, when the sun is not as hot. Fishing after thunderstorms can be particularly productive. During the summer season, bass can be found throughout the reservoir, usually close to the tops of underwater levees and near woody structures. When the rainy season comes, look for water control outflows. Bass tend to congregate near these to feed. 

If you want to use live bait, golden shiners work especially well. Anglers tend to have success with artificial lures that look like shad, which is a central part of the bass diet. Topwater lures and crankbaits are very effective. 

Lake Blue Cypress

Spanning 6,555 acres, Lake Blue Cypress is a bass angler’s paradise. With an average depth of only 8 to 9 feet, the lake has plentiful vegetation which provides outstanding cover for trophy bass. Large bass can be found around the lily pads, sawgrass, submerged logs, and cypress roots. The water is known for being especially clear and clean. 

The largest bass ever caught in Lake Blue Cypress was 18 pounds, 5 ounces, a true whopper in every sense of the word. 

John’s Lake

Situated just northwest of Orlando, Johns Lake is located 6 miles east of the great bass fishing Clermont Florida. John’s Lake is known for consistently producing trophy largemouth bass. With a large amount of structure and a significant number of weed beds, there is plenty of cover where the big bass can hide. In the early 2000s, the lake was restocked with 500,000 fingerling bass, and many of these bass have grown to trophy size. 

Johns Lake <a class=Bass Fishing Map” class=”wp-image-269″/>
Johns Lake Bass Fishing Map by Mark Evans Maps

A variety of lures can be effective on John’s Lake. In particular, rattling lipless crankbaits and plastic worms work very well. Topwater lures tend to be effective in the spring and fall, while slower lures tend to work better during the warm summer months. 

A canal connects the two main lakes, and schooling bass can often be found in the canal both early and later in the day. During midday, the areas just outside either end of the canal can be productive.

Fishing Orlando Vs. Fishing Disney World 

If you’ve done any Googling, you may have discovered that Disney World offers guided trips on their private lakes. Should you consider booking a fishing expedition in Disney World? 

Well, maybe. It depends on what your goals are. 

The lakes in Disney World certainly have plenty of largemouth bass. However, they’re not known for producing particularly big bass. You’ll probably catch bass between one to three pounds, with the occasional five-pound bass thrown in. Not bad, but not great either. You can easily catch bass this size in other parts of the United States. 

Also, most Disney World fishing trips are done in pontoon boats, as opposed to bass boats. If you’re anticipating a ride in a high-performance bass boat, you probably will be disappointed by Disney World. 

Finally, you probably won’t see as much wildlife in a Disney World fishing trip compared to one of the other Orlando lakes. After all, Disney World is a finely tuned ecosystem. They’re very careful about what types of wildlife they let into their lakes. If you want to see things like alligators or bald eagles, you’re probably better off fishing one of the other Orlando lakes. 

Bottom line: if you want to catch trophy bass, ride in a high-powered bass boat, and see plenty of wildlife, don’t book a Disney World fishing excursion. 

Ready To Catch Your Lunker? 

Hopefully, this Orlando bass fishing guide has been helpful to you. Most people don’t realize that the Orlando area is home to some of the United States best bass fishing. When they think of Orlando, they think of tourist attractions, like Universal Studios and Disney World. 

But with numerous high-quality lakes holding trophy bass, Orlando is actually a premier fishing destination. 

So if you’re looking for great bass fishing, great weather, and beautiful scenery, book your Orlando fishing trip. You won’t regret it. 

Catching A Dream

Marlee Kobzej
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0
Catching A Dream

Catching fish and inspiring others to fish isn’t the only thing Kate Hough is good at. Kate-—mother, teacher and professional angler—is also good at catching her dreams and motivating others to do the same.

The support she lends to her first-grade students, her two kids Zoe and Ben, friends, family and especially women in the professional fishing world is tireless. From hosting fundraising fishing tournaments to helping P.E. classes obtain fishing equipment to giving casting classes to women who are interested in the sport of fishing, Kate does her best to make anything possible for anyone. 

Kate recently, however, had to make what seemed like an impossible dream possible for herself. 

Kate’s dream was to become the first-ever female co-angler of the year in the South Carolina division of the Bass Fishing League. She worked hard through the year to be in a good position at the final tournament at Lake Hartwell, but just 17 days before that final tournament, Kate became temporarily paralyzed from the waist down from a rare neurological disorder called transverse myelitis (TM). 

Kate Hough Intensive Care

“The entire time I was in the hospital, I thought about how will I finish the season, how will I try and make my goal. As the days got closer to the tournament, I never gave up hope,” Kate said. 

Her hope paid off. With the help of medical professionals, friends, family and her biggest supporter of all, her fiancé Jeffrey, Kate was able to work through the temporary paralysis enough to be discharged in time to fish the Super Tournament, just in time to continue chasing her dream.

Kate Grice Hough

With her self-described stubbornness and dedication and motivated by reaching her goal, she worked through the pain, the heat and the mental challenges of fishing with a new medical condition. And, despite falling several times on the boat and not fishing her best, in the end, she caught enough fish to earn the points she needed to win co-angler of the year. She had caught her dream—literally by hook, line, and sinker.

“At weigh-in, when I found out that I had won, I was in disbelief. It didn’t hit me until I called to tell my mom,” Kate recalled.

Kate’s ability to turn her dream into reality all while dealing with a life-changing disorder has been inspirational to so many.

From her Instagram page, KateCanFish, follower stephanie_mez posted, “Congratulations!! I was at the [award ceremony] and saw you receive [the co-angler of the year award]. Awesome to see a woman receive this honor in a male-dominated sport.” 

FLW Tour Co-Angler of the Year Kate Hough
FLW Tour Co-Angler of the Year Kate Hough

Kate hopes she can continue to be a role model. 

But, in order to get back to full role-model capacity, Kate is in need of financial support. Since her diagnosis, she has been on unpaid medical leave from her job as a first-grade teacher; she will be out for at least another six months, as well. Daily necessities for herself and her two children and regular household bills are a challenge to cover, not to mention the medical bills that are rolling in. 

Kate’s best friend Vikki Gaillard is helping to raise money for Kate. Vikki said, “Kate is a supportive friend when you need encouragement and an enthusiastic cheerleader during your successes. She embraces the personal challenges with class, positivity, and strength. She is a role model and a blessing to the many, many lives she has touched.” 

Kate Hough Recovery
Kate Hough In Recovery

They’ve managed to raise some money, and Kate is grateful to have gotten the support she has thus far. “It has brought me to tears, the generosity and support of my family and friends from near and far away,” she said. “My fiancé Jeffrey has been working very hard to try and provide, too.”

But, there’s much more to be done and more financial support is needed.

Donations will help Kate to the speediest recovery possible so she can get back to being a mother, teaching her students, catching fish, catching dreams and supporting others in the pursuit of their dreams. 

Kate can be found on Instagram at KateCanFish or on Facebook at Kate G. Hough Catch, Kiss, and Release Fishing. 

To make a donation to help with Kate’s medical bills, please visit GoFundMe.

Fishermans Guide To Largemouth Bass

Stephen Altrogge
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3
Fishermans Guide To Largemouth Bass

Largemouth bass are one of the most exciting species of fish to catch especially on artificial fishing lures. They strike aggressively, fight hard, and will often leap out of the water in stunning displays of acrobatics. 

They are one of the most popular gamefish in the world, attracting the attention of millions of anglers every year. There are tournaments, television shows, podcasts, and even video games dedicated to bass fishing. Every year, millions of dollars and hours spent on largemouth bass fishing.  

Largemouth Bass
Chuck Pippin, Lake Toho Charter & Guide

In this article, we’re going to lay out the what, why, and how of largemouth bass. You’ll learn about the species itself, as well as great methods for catching bass. 

Ready? Let’s dive in. 

What is a Largemouth Bass?

The largemouth bass is a freshwater gamefish that is part of the Centrarchidae family. It is a carnivorous fish that is indigenous to the eastern and central United States, as well as northern Mexico, although it can be found in many other locations as well. The largemouth bass is the largest of the black bass species. Georgia and Mississippi have named the largemouth the state fish, and Florida and Alabama have called it the state freshwater fish. 

Largemouth Bass

In terms of color, it is greenish-gray. Dark blotches form a horizontal line that runs down each side of the fish. The top jaw extends past eye of the bass, and the bottom jaw juts out further than the top jaw. In other words, they have an enormous mouth, from whence they get their name. 

What are some nicknames for a largemouth bass?

Bigmouth bass, Black bass, Widemouth bass, Largies, Bucketmouth bass, Florida largemouth, Potter’s fish, Green trout, Gilsdorf bass, Southern largemouth, Oswego bass, and other regional names.

How long do largemouth bass live?

The growth rate of the largemouth bass depends on a variety of conditions, including the food supply and the surrounding environment. Under ideal conditions, they will grow as much as two pounds in their first year. The average rate of growth is approximately 0.5 pounds per year.

What is considered a trophy largemouth bass?

In some ways, this depends on where the fish are caught. Northern largemouth typically top out at about 10 pounds, while in the South, a female largemouth bass can grow as large as 20 pounds. Usually, anything between 8-20 pounds would be considered a trophy bass.

19.20 lb Bass Caught on Lake Kissimmee

There is an argument that to be considered a trophy largemouth bass, the fish must be at least 51% of the world record. This idea would mean that a bass would need to weigh at least 11 pounds, 3 ounces to be considered a trophy. However, this is not an agreed-upon definition. You could say that a trophy bass is in the eyes of the beholder.

What is the current world record largemouth bass?

The current world record for the giant largemouth is a two-way tie. In 1932, George Perry caught a bass that weighed in at 22 pounds, 4 ounces. In 2009, Manabu Kurita caught a largemouth bass in Japan that weighed the same amount.

What do largemouth bass eat?

Largemouth bass are carnivorous fish, and they feed on a wide variety of prey. When they’re smaller, they feed on things like small baitfish, small shrimp, insects, and scuds. As they grow, they begin to consume smaller fish (like bluegill), crawfish, frogs, snakes, snails, shad, little water birds, bats, and even baby alligators.

Adult bass that live in larger lakes and reservoirs tend to occupy deeper water than younger bass, and their diet reflects this. They primarily eat small fish (shad, yellow perch, shiners, sunfish, etc.) and the younger members of larger species of fish (catfish, trout, walleye, etc.). Amazingly, bass can consume prey that are greater than 50% of their length.

Largemouth bass tend to grow slower in weedy waters because it’s more difficult for them to find and catch food. However, if there is no cover at all, bass can completely wipe out the population of prey, and thus effectively starve themselves.

What is the best bait for largemouth bass?

In terms of live bait, fish (like shiners, minnows, or shad) and crawfish work very well since these are what bass usually eat. 

Because largemouth bass are carnivorous, the best artificial baits tend to be those that mimic their prey in some way. 

Bass are aggressive predators and will also attack a wide variety of artificial baits. If you look at the most used lures, you’ll notice that they don’t all look precisely like the natural prey of the bass. The key is that each bait has some specific feature that attracts bass, such as flashing in the light. 

What are the best artificial baits for bass?

Some popular artificial baits for bass:

Jigs

Jig – Jigs are weighted lures that usually have some skirt that pulses in the water and attracts the bass. They can be used year-round, able to catch bass in everything from 50-degree weather to 90-degree weather. They can be used in shallow or deep water and are useful in a variety of environments, including everything steep underwater banks to shoreline grasses. 

Crankbaits

Crankbait – Crankbaits often look like small fish or crayfish. They have a lip on the front that causes them to dive underwater and wobble as they are retrieved. They work in almost all types of weather and can be used in a variety of depths of water. 

Jerkbaits

Jerkbaits – Jerkbaits sit on top of the water. By jerking the rod, anglers can give the jerkbait a lifelike action, making it attractive to the bass. They tend to work well in clear water, cold water, or when bass are actively feeding on baitfish. They are useful in a variety of weather and conditions. 

Rubber Worms

Rubber worm – Rubber worms can be used in a wide variety of conditions, making them enormously popular with anglers. They can be rigged in various ways, allowing them to be used in both deep and shallow water. Conventional methods of rigging rubber worms include the Carolina rig, Texas rig, drop shot, and weightless.

Rubber Prey Baits

Rubber Prey Baits – In addition to the rubber worm, anglers also use rubber baits that accurately mimic the prey of the largemouth bass. This includes rubber crawfish, rubber salamanders, and rubber frogs. Like worms, rubber prey can be rigged in a huge variety of ways, making them useful in many different environments. 

Spinnerbaits

Spinnerbait – Spinnerbaits have metal blades on them that rotate when pulled through the water. The rotating blades catch and reflect the light, which makes them look like baitfish to largemouth bass. They also have rubber skirts which flutter in the water, further attracting bass. They can be used in deep or shallow water, as well as in a variety of environments. 

Swimbaits

Swimbait – Swimbaits are known for having particularly lifelike action. Their tail shakes when retrieved, and they also have a natural rolling motion. This is a deadly combination; these two actions create vibrations in the water that attract bass. They can be fished in a variety of depths of water. ‘

Within each of the above categories, there are dozens, if not hundreds, of lures available.

How do you catch a largemouth bass?

Largemouth bass can be caught in a wide variety of ways, and the “best” way usually depends on the current conditions. The best way to catch a largemouth bass is to carefully examine the current conditions and then adapt your tackle and fishing style to those conditions.

For example, during the spring (spawning season), as well as during summer mornings and winter afternoons, bass can often be found closer to the shore. They are caught around different types of structure, such as vegetation, docks, fallen trees, etc. During other periods, larger bass tend to hang out in deeper water.

How do you catch a largemouth bass in cold water?

In colder water, bass are more lethargic and are usually caught using a slower retrieve. When the water warms up, bass are more active and are more apt to bite a lure moving more quickly.

Usually, bass favor areas that offer some form of cover, like vegetation, fallen trees, or brush. They can occasionally be found in open water, but this isn’t the norm. Catching bass often requires throwing a lure or live bait near or into cover. Because of this, you’ll need to select lures that are easily fished in cover.

Thankfully, there is no single right way to catch largemouth bass. Because they’re aggressive, they’ll often strike at lures even if they’re not actively feeding. The key is always to be analyzing the environmental and water conditions and then adjust appropriately.

When do largemouth bass spawn?

Largemouth bath typically spawn when the water temperature is between 55 and 65 degrees. Usually, this is in spring to early summer, depending on the location. When the water temperature moves above 45 degrees, they’ll start moving from deep water into shallower waters. Spawning happens in shallower water in areas that receive direct sunlight. This is often within 10 feet of the shore in depths of 1 to 6 feet.

When choosing a spawning bed, male bass often look for areas that are easy to defend, such as next to a rock, sunken log, or group of bulrushes. Nests are usually about twice the length of the male bass and look like black or white patches, depending on what the bottom of the lake looks like. Largemouth bass typically prefer gravel, sand, or muck bottoms for their spawning beds.

After the fertilized eggs are in the nest, the male bass will guard the nest until the eggs hatch. It also may stay with the nest until the baby bass are ready to swim out on their own, although this depends on the water temperature.

When are largemouth bass most active?

Because bass are cold-blooded, they are most active in warm water. In warm water, bass metabolisms are faster, meaning they use more energy and must eat more. When they’re feeding, they’re easier to catch.

Variations in the seasons and temperature play a significant role in how active bass are and where they can be found. During spring and early summer, as the water is warming, they become much more active and can be caught in shallower water.

During the hot temperatures of summer, bass are still active, but they usually move toward deeper water. As fall approaches and the water begins to cool, largemouth bass can again be found in shallower waters. During winter months, when the water is coldest, bass are less active, although they can certainly still be caught.

When is the best time to fish for largemouth bass?

The best time of day to fish for largemouth bass is usually early morning (dawn until 8:00 AM) and evening (5:30 PM until dusk), although this certainly isn’t a hard and fast rule.

Bass are visual predators, relying on their keen sense of eyesight to help them identify and attack prey. They can see better in low-light conditions than most of the prey they hunt, which is one reason why early morning and evening tend to be particularly good times for fishing. Bass can ambush their prey without first being spotted.

Get out there and get fishing!

Bass fishing is rewarding for every type of fisherman, from the new angler to the seasoned expert. They’re aggressive enough that even inexperienced anglers can have great success catching them. Yet they’re also smart enough to give professional anglers a challenge.

Don’t wait any longer. Get out there and catch some largemouth bass! If you don’t know how to catch a bass book with one of our freshwater guides.

What are some nicknames for a largemouth bass? 

Bigmouth bass, Black bass, Widemouth bass, Largies, Bucketmouth bass, Florida largemouth, Potter’s fish, Green trout, Gilsdorf bass, Southern largemouth, Oswego bass, and other regional names.

What are some nicknames for big largemouth bass?

Toad, bucket, pig, mule, hawg, fatty, stud, hoss, big momma, tank, and lunker to name a few.

How long do largemouth bass live?

On average, the largemouth bass lives between 5 to 10 years. The maximum age of a bass is between 16 to 20 years. Bass in colder areas tend to live longer than those in warmer regions. 

How fast do largemouth bass grow?

The growth rate of the largemouth bass depends on a variety of conditions, including the food supply and the surrounding environment. Under ideal conditions, they will grow as much as two pounds in their first year. The average rate of growth is approximately 0.5 pounds per year.

What is considered a trophy largemouth bass?

In some ways, this depends on where the fish are caught. Northern largemouth typically top out at about 10 pounds, while in the South, a female largemouth bass can grow as large as 20 pounds. Usually, anything between 8-20 pounds would be considered a trophy bass.

There is an argument that to be considered a trophy largemouth bass, the fish must be at least 51% of the world record. This idea would mean that a bass would need to weigh at least 11 pounds, 3 ounces to be considered a trophy. However, this is not an agreed-upon definition. You could say that a trophy bass is in the eyes of the beholder.

What is the current world record largemouth bass?

The current world record for the giant largemouth is a two-way tie. In 1932, George Perry caught a bass that weighed in at 22 pounds, 4 ounces. In 2009, Manabu Kurita caught a largemouth bass in Japan that weighed the same amount.

What do largemouth bass eat?

Largemouth bass are carnivorous fish, and they feed on a wide variety of prey. When they’re smaller, they feed on things like small baitfish, small shrimp, insects, and scuds. As they grow, they begin to consume smaller fish (like bluegill), crawfish, frogs, snakes, snails, shad, little water birds, bats, and even baby alligators.

Adult bass that live in larger lakes and reservoirs tend to occupy deeper water than younger bass, and their diet reflects this. They primarily eat small fish (shad, yellow perch, shiners, sunfish, etc.) and the younger members of larger species of fish (catfish, trout, walleye, etc.). Amazingly, bass can consume prey that are greater than 50% of their length.

Largemouth bass tend to grow slower in weedy waters because it’s more difficult for them to find and catch food. However, if there is no cover at all, bass can completely wipe out the population of prey, and thus effectively starve themselves.

How do you catch a largemouth bass? 

Largemouth bass can be caught in a wide variety of ways, and the “best” way usually depends on the current conditions. The best way to catch a largemouth bass is to carefully examine the current conditions and then adapt your tackle and fishing style to those conditions.

For example, during the spring (spawning season), as well as during summer mornings and winter afternoons, bass can often be found closer to the shore. They are caught around different types of structure, such as vegetation, docks, fallen trees, etc. During other periods, larger bass tend to hang out in deeper water.

In colder water, bass are more lethargic and are usually caught using a slower retrieve. When the water warms up, bass are more active and are more apt to bite a lure moving more quickly.

Usually, bass favor areas that offer some form of cover, like vegetation, fallen trees, or brush. They can occasionally be found in open water, but this isn’t the norm. Catching bass often requires throwing a lure or live bait near or into cover. Because of this, you’ll need to select lures that are easily fished in cover.

Thankfully, there is no single right way to catch largemouth bass. Because they’re aggressive, they’ll often strike at lures even if they’re not actively feeding. The key is always to be analyzing the environmental and water conditions and then adjust appropriately.

When do largemouth bass spawn?

Largemouth bath typically spawn when the water temperature is between 55 and 65 degrees. Usually, this is in spring to early summer, depending on the location. When the water temperature moves above 45 degrees, they’ll start moving from deep water into shallower waters. Spawning happens in shallower water in areas that receive direct sunlight. This is often within 10 feet of the shore in depths of 1 to 6 feet.

When choosing a spawning bed, male bass often look for areas that are easy to defend, such as next to a rock, sunken log, or group of bulrushes. Nests are usually about twice the length of the male bass and look like black or white patches, depending on what the bottom of the lake looks like. Largemouth bass typically prefer gravel, sand, or muck bottoms for their spawning beds.

After the fertilized eggs are in the nest, the male bass will guard the nest until the eggs hatch. It also may stay with the nest until the baby bass are ready to swim out on their own, although this depends on the water temperature.

When are largemouth bass most active?

Because bass are cold-blooded, they are most active in warm water. In warm water, bass metabolisms are faster, meaning they use more energy and must eat more. When they’re feeding, they’re easier to catch.

Variations in the seasons and temperature play a significant role in how active bass are and where they can be found. During spring and early summer, as the water is warming, they become much more active and can be caught in shallower water.

During the hot temperatures of summer, bass are still active, but they usually move toward deeper water. As fall approaches and the water begins to cool, largemouth bass can again be found in shallower waters. During winter months, when the water is coldest, bass are less active, although they can certainly still be caught.

When is the best time to fish for largemouth bass?

The best time of day to fish for largemouth bass is usually early morning (dawn until 8:00 AM) and evening (5:30 PM until dusk), although this certainly isn’t a hard and fast rule.

Bass are visual predators, relying on their keen sense of eyesight to help them identify and attack prey. They can see better in low-light conditions than most of the prey they hunt, which is one reason why early morning and evening tend to be particularly good times for fishing. Bass can ambush their prey without first being spotted.

Chuck Pippin Boat Captain

Chuck Pippin
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Chuck Pippin Boat Captain

Reserve Your Spot. No Payment Due Today. Payment Due At The Dock. the only email or calls you will receive will be from one of our guides to book your trip. We do not SPAM.

Chuck Pippin History

Hello, I am Chuck Pippin, Professional Bass Fisherman, Bass Charter, and co-founder of GuideFishing.com. I began my career as a Bass fishing guide in 1997 on West Lake Toho and the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, during my junior year at the University of Central Florida. After graduating, I moved to Clewiston, Florida and spent 5 years as a guide at Roland Martin’s Marina on Lake Okeechobee.

Chuck Pippin In The Minn Kota Ulterra Commercial

During this time, I began my career as a professional tournament angler fishing both the FLW Tour and the B.A.S.S. Southern Opens. In October of 2002, I moved back to the Orlando Florida area to continue my guiding career on West Lake Tohopekaliga, the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes and other Orlando area lakes. To this day, I continue to do approximately 300+ charters per year. I still thoroughly enjoy the sport of Bass fishing.

Chuck Pippin Jr Bass Fishing Guide

Captain Chuck Pippin Jr. Trophy Bass Guide

Chuck is an incredibly passionate trophy bass captain. He is on the water over 300 days a year. If Chuck is not on the water with a guest, he is out scouting for his next guide trip.

Orlando Bass Fishing Guide, Capt. Chuck Pippin Jr. With over 19 years of experience as a professional tournament Bass angler and bass fishing guide.

Current Sponsors

Ranger Boats, Evinrude, D.O.A. Fishing Lures, Toho Marine & Outdoors, 13 Fishing, Minn Kota, Humminbird, Dovetail Games, Mystery Tackle Box

Where You’ve Seen Chuck

FLW Tour, Bassmaster Opens, ads and tv commercials for Minn Kota and Hummingbird. Featured in Fishing SIM World video game.

Chuck Pippin’s Bass Boat

2019 Ranger Z520L (Touring Package) Blackout Edition

The Ranger® Z Comanche® L Series are the only boats as serious about tournament fishing as you, and the Z520L is the rig many top professionals rely on to get them to the fish and back quickly, safely and comfortably.  Check out the latest Ranger Boats here.

Evinrude G2 250 H.O.

According to Evinrude, the G2 offers best in class fuel economy to make the most out of your time on the water.

Two 12′ Minn Kota Talons

Minn Kota’s shallow water anchor system is called “Talons”. Only Talon has up to 15ˈ of anchoring, and User-Selectable Anchoring Modes that let you pick the perfect hold for any condition, from rough water to soft bottoms.

Minn Kota Ultrex 36v 112lbs. Thrust

Regardless of the weather, the 112lb Utrex gets me where I want to go. Sometimes faced with 30 mph winds, I need power and comfort so I can focus on the fishing. The foot pedal is so smooth, it makes long days on the water a breeze.

src=”https://guidefishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/humminbird-1024×639.jpg” alt=”Humminbird Helix 12 MEGA SI G3N” class=”wp-image-179″/>
Humminbird Helix 12 MEGA SI G3N

Humminbird Helix 10&12 MEGA SI G3N

Guide fishing requires a higher understanding of what’s going on below the surface. This is why we choose Humminbird Helix imaging products. We find the fish and stay on the fish year-round.

Fishing Tackle

When you book a charter, we supply all of your fishing tackle, rods, reels, & lures. However, please feel free to bring your own if you like. Here is a review of some of the tackle provided on the boat.

13 Fishing Concept Z Casting Reel

13 Fishing Concept “Z” Casting Reels

The first-ever high-performance casting reel manufactured with zero ball bearings. Smooth reel that bomb casts. Most of our guests say they love how well this reel fits in their hand. At the end of a long day their hands do not cramp up and their arm isn’t tired. This is due to the ergonomics and lightweight of the reel. Another important feature is the drag settings and that this reel has zero ball bearings.

13 Fishing Casting & Spinning Rods

The perfect balance between form and function. Super lightweight for long days and very sensitive. The rods and reels are custom matched for whatever bait you happen to be throwing that day. You will immediately notice how much feel you get from these rods. You can almost feel the bass looking at your lure. Our guests love the lightweight and castability even in strong winds.

13 Fishing Casting & Spinning Rods

The Best Local Fishing Guides Show Support For Glenn “GB” Browne

Jason George
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The Best Local Fishing Guides Show Support For Glenn “GB” Browne

Former FLW Tour Pro Champion Glenn Browne passed away earlier this year after his battle with cancer. He was 43 years old. He is survived by his wife Melissa. October 19, 2019, Lakes Harris features the Glenn “GB” Browne Memorial Bass Fishing Tournament. This event is hosted by Xtreme Bass Series.

Glenn Browne Charity Tournament
Glenn Browne Charity Tournament

Tournament Details

Date: Saturday, October 19, 2019 Sunday October 20, 2019
Time: 5:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST. Takeoff at Sunrise. Weight in at 2:30 pm
Location: Venetian Gardens/Ski Beach 201 East Lake Harris Drive Leesburg, FL 34748
Summary: Bass fishing tournament to raise money for the Suwanee River Cancer Awareness Association and Marion County Youth Bassmasters Association. There will be a silent auction at the end of the tournament.
How To Register: Download Registration Form here or check out the Facebook Event or you can register the morning of the event. Or call Melissa Browne (352) 601-7951. If you are going to register let Melissa Browne know if possible
Entry Fee: $120 Early Registration $150 the morning of per boat. Credit Cards and Cash Accepted
Prizes: Tournament T-Shirt, Trophy compliments of James Hatch at Energy Vision and Ross Myers with Bass Trophies Online. Fitzgerald rod and reel for lowest weight on a bag of 5 fish.

Event Details

Food and items to support the cause will be available for purchase at the event. All proceeds go to Suwanee River Cancer Awareness Association and Marion County Youth Bassmaster Association. There will be a raffle held at the event. Bring cash, tickets are 2 for $5, 5 for $10, 15 for $20, 40 for $40. Some of the items up for auction:

  • Vizio 50 inch 4K ultra HD picture smart TV
  • 10 custom GB tournament tumblers
  • VEXAN fishing and Vernon Kemp rods and weigh bags
  • Lowrance HDS7 Live
  • ARK Rods rods, shirts and hat
  • Glenn Browne engraved Super Duty Real
  • 2 life vests, a cooler, 2 costa sunglasses gift certificates, tumblers, and a battery charger compliments of Toho Marine
  • BB Custom Jigs
  • Rods & reels compliments of Enigma Fishing
  • Gary Yamamoto Custom Baits
  • A signed Bryan Thrift jersey compliments of Fitzgerald Rods
  • A Power Pole
  • Gator’s Big Bass Guide Service guided trip for 2
  • Lew’s hats and shirts for raffles and a rod and reel combo
  • Jason Haynes full day guide trip
  • Gill Reaper Lures
  • Catch Commanders compliments of Mike Blocher
  • Megabass lures and apparel
  • Ranger Boats, shirts, hats and gift cards for ranger apparel
  • 5 oil changes compliments of Firestone Ocala
  • River2Sea stickers, lures, and accessories
  • And Much Much More.

Hotel Information

Quality Inn Leesburg Chain of Lakes
1392 W N Blvd, Leesburg, FL 34748
352-787-6363
A discounted tournament rate of $70 per night is available. Please call this number directly and mention the Glenn Browne Memorial Fishing tournament. A block of rooms has been reserved for both Friday and Saturday night.

This hotel can accommodate 15-20 boats if unhitched and/or parked correctly. They have 12 outdoor outlets for charging your trolling motors and also allow anglers to plug outlets into the ground floor rooms and run extension cords out the windows.
Cut off date for booking September 30th.

For more information about The Harris Chain of Lakes check out this article.

10/14/2019 Update From Melissa Browne

Flights will be as follows:
Boats
1-25 3 pm
26-50 3:10
51-75 3:20
76-100 3:30
101-125. 3:40
126-150 3:50

*We will have the scale open at 2:30 if you want to come in early or have fish that are under strain.

* There will be no size restrictions for a weighable bass. You can bring them to any size big or small.

* We will be using our weigh bags for weigh in to control the flow of anglers. Don’t want to see 30 teams in line with a bag full of bass.

* We will have guys checking boats that come by water just let us know when you check-in and get your boat chip.

* We will be calling boat numbers from the bank by Microphone at morning launch. (Please take note that Boat Number one will be in memory Of Glenn so we will ask everyone to turn the outboards off and a moment of silence before we resume calling boat numbers.)

* In the afternoon we will have a check boat in the water for you to Check-in before coming to the scales. Please allow enough time to check in before your allotted time.

* I will give everyone my phone number on a flight sheet the morning of launch. If for some reason you go home early and don’t weigh in please text me your boat number so I know you are off the water safely. Please and thank you…

* There will be pulled pork lunches available for purchase with all proceeds going to support the charities.

*After Weigh-in we will announce the winners and payout the money.

*Once the money is handed out we will then proceed with the raffle items which you won’t want to miss out on.

* Most important thing!!!! REMEMBER WHILE WE ARE ALL HERE AND HAVE AN INCREDIBLE TIME.

TOURNAMENT UPDATE 10/18

TOURNAMENT UPDATE: we have made the decision to move the tournament to Sunday. Safety is our number one concern, we do not want anyone to get hurt.
Times will be the same for Sunday. We will remain at Ski beach for the event.
Please spread the word via Facebook texts and phone calls. I will be personally making phone calls to all registered.
I’m happy to grant refunds for those who cannot make it Sunday. Please reach out to me via a private message or phone call.

Any questions please don’t hesitate to call me. 813-363-5266

FLW 2020 Tour Schedule

Jason George
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FLW 2020 Tour Schedule

Fishing League Worldwide announced its 2020 FLW Tour schedule. Currently, the bass fishing schedule consists of seven events throughout the U.S. The official FLW Tour schedule www.flwfishing.com/tips/2019-08-08-2020-flw-tour-schedule

Sam Rayburn Reservoir – January 23-26

The first stop on the FLW Tour is Sam Rayburn Reservoir in Brookeland, Texas. The event hosted by the Jasper County Development District. Last year’s winner, Terry Bolton out of Benton, Kentucky, produced a four day total of 91lbs 3oz with 20 bass. According to flwfishing.com, Terry walked away with $100,200 + Ranger Cup ($25,000).

Terry credits his 2019 FLW Tour opener at Sam Rayburn win to a few Rapala DT series crankbaits.

Harris Chain of Lakes – February 20-23

The second stop on the FLW Tour is The Harris Chain of Lakes in Leesburg, Florida. The event hosted by Lake County, Florida. Last year the FLW Tour did not visit The Harris Chain of Lakes.

Lake Martin – March 19-22

The third stop on the FLW Tour is Lake Martin in Alexander City, Alabama. The event hosted by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. Last year the FLW Tour did not visit Lake Martin.

Cherokee Lake – April 2-5

The fourth stop on the FLW Tour is Cherokee Lake in Jefferson City, Tennessee. The event hosted by the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce. Last year’s winner, Andrew Upshaw out of Tulsa, Oklahoma, produced a four day total of 67lbs 10oz with 20 bass. According to flwfishing.com, Andrew walked away with $100,000 in winnings.

Lake Hartwell – April 23-26

The fifth stop on the FLW Tour is Lake Hartwell in Anderson, South Carolina. The event hosted by the Anderson Convention & Visitors Bureau. Last year the FLW Tour did not visit Lake Hartwell.

Lake Dardanelle – May 14-17

The sixth stop on the FLW Tour is Lake Dardanelle in Russellville, Arkansas. The event hosted by Russellville Advertising & Promotion Commission. Last year the FLW Tour did not visit Lake Dardanelle.

Detroit River – June 25-28

The seventh and final stop on the FLW Tour is Detroit River in Trenton, Michigan. The event hosted by the Detroit Sports Commission. Last year the FLW Tour did not visit Detroit River.

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