Butler Chain of Lakes

butler chain of lakes boat ramps

Boat access is available only at a couple of locations,  county ramp (Lake Isleworth just south of Windermere), and public bank access is almost non-existent. Orange County charges a launch fee at the Lake Isleworth ramp and the ramp is not open after dark.

The R.D. Keene Park ramp at Lake Isleworth (Butler Chain) costs per day or a year for use of the ramp. Windermere Chain of Lakes is known for its excellent largemouth bass fishing. Most successful bass anglers pay attention to the bottom contours of the lake offshore structure where 4- to 9-pound bass are commonly produced. Live shiners free-lined over grass edges, humps, ledges, and drop‑offs adjacent to spawning flats is one method to consistently catch quality bass in the winter/spring (Try Lake Butler).

Jigging spoons fished over deep-water humps can produce 50-fish days when the water gets cold and fish congregate tightly (Try Little Lake Down). Windermere chain also has relatively unknown and unstudied black crappie (speck), bluegill, and redear sunfish (shellcracker) populations, but anecdotal angler reports and field observations indicate a fishery exists for all three species.

Fishing Techniques

Now for tips and trips, the best times to fish the Butler Chain of Lakes are from June – November. This time of the year offers quality size fish in the 3-8lb range and good numbers of bass caught per day. On weekends, boat traffic can be a problem, so weekdays are always suggested for recreational boating on these lakes.

 This Butler Chain is legendary for the number of bass it produces year after year. It is ranked consistently as one of the top ten best bass fishing lakes in the country. You can enjoy fishing with both artificial lures and live bait. Wild-caught live shiners are ultimately the bait of choice when looking to catch that trophy bass you have been after. 

Bass anglers can have success using not only live bait but also deep-diving crankbaits and Carolina-rigged worms in deep river channels. Early morning and late evening topwater bites can be good near the flats along the creek channels. Black crappie or speck fishermen can enjoy catching on live minnows or jigs along the edges of the dropoffs. The action is red hot almost all year round. 

EMBRACE LOCAL CULTURE AND CONNECT WITH LOCALS

Orlando caters to a diverse range of visitors, whether you’re embarking on a family vacation, a romantic getaway, a solo adventure, or a group trip with friends. Regardless of your place of stay, be it near International Drive, close to the Orange County Convention Center, or within proximity of the Orlando International Airport, you’ll find the Butler Chain of Lakes easily accessible. The vast array of clientele we serve ensures that every excursion with us is a memorable one.

Perhaps your vacation revolves around enchanting experiences at Walt Disney World, Sea World, or Universal Studios, and for those adrenaline junkies who read the pros and cons, the region offers an array of exhilarating water parks and attractions. However, Orlando has much more to offer, and our fishing trips can be tailored to your preferences, and scheduled during the morning or afternoon to accommodate your needs. So, venture out and savor it all.

There’s only one way to truly appreciate Orlando, and that’s by indulging in fishing and boating adventures!