Catfish Creek

Catfish Creek is a Central Florida freshwater stream linking Lake Pierce and Lake Hatchineha in Polk County’s Kissimmee watershed. The Polk County Water Atlas describes roughly 9 miles of stream within its coverage. This page covers the creek and associated preserve fishing ponds; one lake acreage would not describe those separate waters.

Catfish Creek Fishing and Habitat

Vegetation edges, shaded banks and changes in depth are useful places to assess when lawful access and water conditions permit. Use presentations suited to the cover: weedless soft plastics can work around vegetation, while small panfish tackle suits accessible pond banks. These are general freshwater approaches, not a current catch report or a guarantee.

The species cards are regional Kissimmee freshwater identification references. They should not be read as a verified current survey of every creek reach or preserve pond. For broader bass-fishing planning, compare Lake Hatchineha fishing information and Lake Wales trip options.

Preserve Pond Fishing

Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park is one preserve, rather than two separate parks with similar names. Florida State Parks describes fishing in preserve ponds reached by an approximately one-mile hike from the parking lot. Pack water and suitable footwear and check the park’s current instructions. This hike-in pond access does not establish a drive-up creek boat ramp.

Creek and Lake Hatchineha Access

The SFWMD Catfish Creek recreation area is accessible only from the water. The district lists Port Hatchineha at 15050 Lake Hatchineha Road, Haines City, and Camp Mack at 14900 Camp Mack Road, Lake Wales, as nearby ramps. These are separate from the preserve’s hike-in ponds; check the appropriate operator before traveling.

SFWMD describes canoeing or kayaking along the cypress strand when water levels are high. Passage can change with water levels and vegetation. Confirm launch conditions and a safe return route, carry suitable boating equipment and avoid approaching wildlife. Do not assume the entire creek is navigable by motorboat.

Plan a Freshwater Fishing Visit

Follow current FWC freshwater regulations and license requirements, plus posted park, water-management and ramp rules. Respect private shoreline and use designated access. Ask regional guides such as Capt. Steve Niemoeller to confirm the exact fishery and access before reserving; no creek-specific booking product is verified here.

Catfish Creek Map