New ListingPeace River
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Quick Summary
Peace River (Polk, Hardee, Desoto, Charlotte Counties): This scenic river runs south for over 100 miles from Lake Hancock, north of Bartow, to Charlotte Harbor.
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Top Target Species on Peace River
Bluegill
Bowfin Fish
Channel Catfish
Largemouth Bass
Crappie
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Frequently Asked Questions about Peace River
What makes Peace River a good fishing spot?
Healthy habitat, structure, and forage make this a consistent producer. Focus on transitions, points, vegetation edges, and wind-blown banks for active fish.
Which species can I catch on the Peace River?
Target species vary by season and water body. Expect gamefish typical to this area; check our page sections for what’s biting now and where to focus.
When is the best time to fish on the Peace River?
Spring and fall are typically the most productive, with early morning and late afternoon bites. Weather and water temps matter—check recent reports for current conditions.
Do I need a fishing license for Peace River?
A valid state fishing license is required in most cases. Check your state wildlife agency for the latest rules and license options before you go.
Are guided trips available along the Peace River?
Yes—local guides are available and can simplify planning, tackle, and seasonal patterns. Browse our guide listings to compare availability and trip styles.
Fishing Peace River
Peace River (Polk, Hardee, Desoto, Charlotte Counties): This scenic river runs south for over 100 miles from Lake Hancock, north of Bartow, to Charlotte Harbor. Popular with canoeists, the Peace River offers excellent fishing for largemouth bass, bream, and catfish. Snook weighing over 30 pounds migrate from Charlotte Harbor and are caught year-round as far north as Fort Meade. Bass, snook, and catfish prefer deep holes around tree snags where flow is strong.
Tarpons are also caught in the lower Peace River. Commission-maintained boat ramps are located near Fort Ogden at Deep Creek off CR 769 (Kings Highway) in Desoto County and near Wauchula on CR 652 in Hardee County. Additional limited-access points are sometimes available depending on water levels and other conditions.
Locations follow US 98 east of Ft. Meade, west of US 17 at Gardner, west of US 17 at Brownville, west of Arcadia off SR 70, and at Lettuce Lake south of CR 761. Bank fishing opportunities are available near Gardner.
Along the Peace River in Fla
The river is shallow right now, and with the rainy season ending, it will soon be only passable by canoe. Largemouth bass can be found in pools and around snags that offer current breaks. Spotted sunfish (stump knockers) can be found around snags in the river; use small popping flies or small jigs and spinners to catch them.
Plenty of bluegills (bream) and redear sunfish (shellcracker) can be caught with red wigglers and crickets fished near snags. Catfish can be found around snags and in deeper holes and can be caught using chicken liver, frozen shrimp, and commercial stink baits.
Saltwater species, such as redfish, spotted sea trout, and tarpon, can be caught regularly in the lower river, where it is tidally influenced. Use shrimp, jigs, crabs, and topwater lures near bridges and snags to catch most of these species. Snook can be found well upriver, with many being year-round residents as far north as Nocatee and Gardner. Use large crankbaits or shiners to try to entice them to bite, and then hang on!
NOTE: It’s not uncommon to have Low water; this issue has existed for years. Unless the year receives large amounts of rainfall be careful of ongoing low water conditions.
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