Karick Lake

Karick Lake Recreation is a 65-acre artificial impoundment on Deadfall Creek in northern Okaloosa County near Destin, FL. It has a maximum depth of 18 feet at the dam and an average depth of 7 feet. 

A considerable amount of flooded timber provides fish habitat. In 1965, Karick was constructed and opened to fishing in 1966.

Fishing Karick Lake

Karick Lake bass fishing picks typically up in late February and early March as water temperatures rise into the upper 50’s and lower 60’s and bass begin moving into shallower waters for pre-spawning and spawning activities.

Before this time, look for bass located in 6-10 feet of water. Dark-colored plastic worms and Rat-L-Traps fished slowly are usually productive. As the water reaches spawning temperatures (62-68 degrees), bass can generally be found in waters 2-6 feet in depth. Plastic worms, crankbaits, and surface lures can all be productive at this time. 

Periods of several warm days in a row following a cold snap can turn fish on to a feeding binge, resulting in excellent fishing. Cold fronts moving in throughout the quarter will send fish to deeper water and slow feeding activities. Anglers should pay close attention to the weather while planning their trips.

Camping on Lake

The campgrounds are located east of County Road 189, approximately 7.5 miles north of Baker.

The Lake has two improved camping areas: one on the north side and one on the lake’s south side. The east end of Jackson Trail starts at North Karick Lake. Camping at Karick Lake is first-come, first-served, except for the primitive youth camping area on the north side. 

No swimming is allowed.

North Karick Lake Recreation Area:

Features

• Lake (65 acres)
• Hiking trail
• Picnicking
• Canoeing
• Leashed Pets Allowed
• Fishing

Facilities

• Campsites with electricity and water
• Restrooms and showers
• Boat ramp
• Pier
• North Karick Lake Youth Area is a primitive camping area with bathrooms nearby. Reservations required for the Youth Area: Call 850/ 957-6140

Trails

• Karick Lake Trailwalker Trail
• Panhandle Birding Trail: Karick Lake, 1.4M

South Karick Lake Recreation Area:

Recreation Area is available for tent sites and recreational vehicle sites with electricity in the South Karick campgrounds. Restrooms with showers are public.
South Karick and its vicinity are in a non-hunting zone. During the primary hunting season from Thanksgiving to mid-February, it’s recommended to wear fluorescent orange when hiking away from South Karick.

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Karick Lake Map