Crescent Lake

At first glance, the lake water in Crescent Lake, FL, is exceptional for fishing bluegill and shellcracker, and is popular during late spring/early summer as the fish congregate during their spawning season. Largemouth bass anglers fish early morning and late evening to avoid the heat during the summer months.

Deeper docks and pilings on Lake Crescent provide great targets. Live shiners, as well as artificial baits, should both be helpful during the winter months.

None of the lakes located off the St John’s River is as unique as Crescent Lake. Lake George is situated a few miles NorthEast. Crescent Lake is approximately 30 square miles in size, characterized by clean water, abundant vegetation, and stunning scenery. The lake is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the majestic bald eagle.

The lake’s uniqueness stems from its diverse range of bass fishing features. Everything from Shallow grass, shell beds, sharp drops, and ledges. Deepwater, pad fields, logs, and cypress trees, including boat docks. Crescent Lake has them all; no matter what the pattern or the fishing day provides, there is something here for everyone to fish.

Where else?

A large marsh feeds Crescent Lake to the east and two small creeks on its South end. Its primary connection is to the St. Johns River, approximately six miles to North, by Dunns Creek, a twisting and winding creek, which has good bass fishing on its own. The water levels in Crescent are generally affected by the St. Johns River.

The average depth is 10 feet, with some sustained areas of 12-16 feet along the lower West shoreline and a deep 20-30 foot channel between Crescent and Dead Lake.

One particular ‘oddity’ about Crescent, which is sure to make the structure-oriented bass fishermen sit up and take notice, is the excellent drop-off that runs parallel to the shoreline for nearly the entire circumference of the lake. In general, the lake’s bottom topography shows a slight tapering out from the shoreline until a depth of 5-8 feet.

Then, in most locations, there is a very rapid descent into 10-16 feet. There is a little, but not much. Hydrilla, milfoil, and other grasses, and the only lily pad fields of significance are in the shallow basin. These pad fields are also productive crappie locations during the spawning months of February through March. Local anglers find them schooling in the open waters just before and after the spawn. But, during the spawn, they will be with the pads.

About Crescent Lake

CRESCENT LAKE (Flagler & Putnam Counties): This 15,960-acre lake is a tributary of the St. Johns River. Public access to Crescent Lake is available on the west shore, off Highway 17 in Crescent City. Please refer to the Google map located below for the ramp locations.

Making Travel Plans?

Were you thinking of driving? An incredibly scenic drive out of Deland is US-17. St. Augustine also offers backroads, heading west from Ancient City, traveling to Palatka, and then continuing on US-17 south. Be sure to stop at Welaka and take in the stunning river views and historic buildings.

Halfway between St. Augustine and Deland, you can find Crescent City, a quaint town. It’s where Crescent Lake got its name. Over the years, angling experts have referred to this town and lake as the “Bass Fishing Capital of the World.”  Correct or not, it’s one of the best places to catch largemouth bass and crappie in Florida.

Historic Crescent City

Unique to Crescent City are the historic buildings, many of which are over 100 years old—the city overlooks beautiful Crescent Lake, a large extension of the St. Johns River.  

Need an overnight stay? Look no further than the lovely bed and breakfast in Crescent City called  Sprague House. The historic home, once owned by local citrus growers, was built in 1892. While staying, visit 3 Bananas, located about a block away, which overlooks Crescent Lake. 3 Bananas has nice fried fish, wings, and many other casual dining fares, along with a full bar.

In a while, Dine enjoys lovely vintage photos of the building dating back to the old Masonic Hall. 

Top Crescent Lake Captains

To see a complete list of great Crescent Lake fishing guides, please click here!

Cresent Lake Surroundings

Waterfront communities surround this Lake, with 55+ neighborhood situated on the lakeside in five acres with over 450 feet of waterfront. You can find home sites located among magnolia and oak trees. View the wildlife of river otters, white egrets, owls, and blue herons. All while watching the Hawks, Woodpeckers, and Bald Eagles nest and feed. A regular to the show is the Florida alligator or even a manatee cruising by. Enjoy the old Florida ambiance to this well-groomed and affordable community.

For both species of fish, attempt to place the bait or lures under the structure. Accommodations, guide services, and general lake information are available on our website.