Lake Washington

Lake Washington is the largest lake in Brevard County, Florida, covering about 4,362 acres. Located near Melbourne, the lake is part of the upper St. Johns River system and has long served as an important freshwater resource for the surrounding area. Lake Washington is roughly four miles long, about one mile wide, and generally ranges from 10 to 15 feet deep.

The lake connects with the St. Johns River system, with neighboring Lake Winder farther downstream. Its tannin-stained water, shallow vegetation, river current, and broad open-water areas create a mix of habitat for both gamefish and panfish.

Lake Washington is also an important regional drinking-water supply. A fixed-crest weir near the lake helps stabilize water levels, while the surrounding River Lakes Conservation Area protects extensive Upper St. Johns marsh habitat

Lake Washington Fishing

Largemouth bass fishing is typically strongest from late fall through spring around emergent and submerged vegetation. Plastic worms, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures are all productive choices for anglers working grass edges, shoreline cover, and open-water transitions.

Lake Washington also supports crappie, bluegill, and redear sunfish. Winter can produce good crappie fishing in the lake and in the river immediately downstream. Trolling or drifting small artificial jigs and live minnows through open water can help locate schools of fish. During warmer months, anglers can target bluegill and redear sunfish along bulrush, submerged grass, and shoreline cover. Surface poppers are a popular option for catching sunfish on light tackle or fly gear.

Lake Washington Park and Boat Access

Lake Washington Park provides public access to the lake and the upper St. Johns River. The park includes ramps for powerboats, an airboat launch area, shoreline fishing access, a fishing pier, parking for vehicles and trailers, restrooms, picnic areas, a pavilion, playground space, and paved walkways.

The surrounding marsh and shoreline also provide wildlife-viewing opportunities. The area has been associated with wading birds, eagles, limpkins, snail kites, wrens, and other species that use the upper St. Johns River wetlands.

For anglers planning a trip, Lake Washington offers a combination of bass, crappie, and panfish opportunities with convenient access from the Melbourne and Brevard County area. Its connection to the St. Johns River also makes it part of a much larger freshwater fishing system.