Capt David Lang, Capt Kenneth Walker, Capt Peter T, Fishing Reports, Largemouth Bass, North Florida Reports, Rodman Reservoir
March Rodman Fishing Trips
Bass fishing is better than ever here in North Florida. All across the state of Florida, you can find some beautiful fishing and amazing weather. Getting outdoors is a great way to stay clear of people and get the full Florida experience. The Rodman Reservoir is a fantastic place to catch your new personal best largemouth bass. It is home to some of the biggest bass in the state.
March Rodman Fishing Trips can really bring a lot of joy and excitement to your next travel adventure!
During the month of March, you can capitalize on some of the best fishing opportunities. This month, the largemouth bass spawn is in full effect. Each trip is unique and you can’t ever fully predict how or when the bite is truly going to produce for you. One trip can produce solid numbers of quality fish and another trip can put multiple trophy largemouth bass in the boat. There is one thing for sure, you will have the best chance at a trophy largemouth bass here on the Rodman Reservoir.
Our local experts can really increase your chances of landing that big fish. As you will see below, whether you want to catch largemouth bass or speckled perch (crappie or speck), this is the destination for you. Years of experience and knowledge has led to helping dial in on the action and getting you on the fish all trip long.
Fishing with Captain Ken Walker
“I had the pleasure of having the opportunity to fish with Bill and his good friends Dave. They were traveling locally to explore what the Rodman Reservoir had to offer. Catching a large Florida largemouth bass was the goal and when you come to this beautiful fishing destination, you can have the opportunity to.
It was a cold start to the day during this fishing trip. These cooler winter months here in the United States bring about cooler temperatures all across the state, especially in the northern region. Once the sun came out and warmed things up, so did the bass.
Wild-caught live shiners were the best way to catch bass on this fishing trip. The Rodman will produce that big bite you are after and Dave will be the first one to tell you. He landed his personal best largemouth bass weighing in at 7 pounds 9 ounces. I worked hard to improve it and land an even bigger fish, and we sure did.
Bill came in strong on this fishing trip landing a giant monster Florida largemouth bass weighing in at 9 pounds 11 ounces. That is the caliber of fish you are looking for when coming to the Rodman Reservoir. It is always nice when things come together.
Bill and Dave had a wonderful time on the water and I am looking forward to getting them back out on the water soon!” – Captain Ken Walker
Fishing with Captain David Lang
“Did you know that speckled perch or crappie or speck can be caught within the Rodman Reservoir? This fishing paradise is a great place to not only land bass but also speck. Spend a day fishing for a speck on the Rodman Reservoir.
I had the pleasure of fishing with James, who was traveling from Georgia looking to get away in North Florida. While doing so, a March Rodman Reservoir trip was a great opportunity to land some tasty treats. Sunny and beautiful weather here in Florida made for a great day on the water.
James caught several nice crappies with the biggest weighing in at 1 pound 14 ounces. You truly can’t beat the action here for two of the best species to catch in Florida. Live minnows and artificial jigs were the most effective way to land speck on this fishing trip.
James had a blast and will be back soon. I am looking forward to our next adventure!” – Captain David Lang
Fishing with Captain Peter T
“It is always nice to spend time with clients for multiple days. You get the chance to know them better and provide them the trip they are exactly looking for. Most clients come down and just want to get outdoors and land some fish and others are looking to celebrate special occasions.
I had the ultimate pleasure of fishing with Ed and his son Jason. This was a Father-Son trip that meant a lot to them. They were not only celebrating Ed’s birthday but also the retirement of Ed. While they were traveling from Delaware, Ed and Jason had to get out on the water.
The fishing was fantastic and very productive for both days. Calm conditions made the weather and heated up the water. They caught over 40 fish in two days of fishing. The largest bass weighed in at 7 pounds 4 ounces, which was a personal best for Ed. 5 more fish were caught between 5 and 6 pounds.
Ed and Jason could not have asked for better days of fishing here on the Rodman Reservoir. They had a great time and are looking forward to making their way back here on their next trip to Florida!” – Captain Peter T
A March Rodman Fishing Trip can produce some of the best fishing you have ever seen. Every trip is different and can be tailored to your needs. The bass fishing is at its best and will continue to get better throughout the next several weeks. If you are looking for a fishing trip of a lifetime, this is the perfect destination for you.
We hope that you get the chance to get out on the water with one of our local experts and catch the fish of your dreams! March is one of the last months of the Rodman Reservoir Drawdown of 2020 and NOW is the time to fish it!
Capt Chris Davy, Capt David Lang, Capt Kenneth Walker, Capt Peter T, Fishing Reports, Largemouth Bass, North Florida Reports, Rodman Reservoir
March Fishing Rodman Reservoir
If there is one place in the whole state of Florida to consistently catch trophy largemouth bass, it’s the Rodman Reservoir. Not only is this destination absolutely breathtaking but it holds some exceptional waters to land the biggest Florida largemouth bass of your life. March is going to be the BEST month to explore what this destination and fishery has to offer. Enjoy some March Rodman Reservoir Fishing on your next adventure to North Florida.
March Fishing is going to be on fire for some GIANT largemouth bass. Our local experts have been catching them already and the month is just getting started. As the weather stabilizes and warming trends occur, the fishing will continue to get better. Spawning season is here as well so you will get the chance to enjoy catching and releasing some large female bass.
Our local experts are the most important aspect of catching trophy largemouth bass on the Rodman Reservoir. The Reservoir is filled with floating debris and underwater structure that can damage your fishing vessel. Hiring a local expert that has years of experience and knowledge will be the best way to explore the Rodman Reservoir.
Check out this Rodman Reservoir Fishing Update to see what you can get yourself into:
Fishing with Captain Ken Walker:
“I had the pleasure of fishing with Tyler, who was traveling from Georgetown, Massachusetts to North Florida. While doing so, he wanted to land and catch some Florida largemouth bass. The Rodman Reservoir was the best place to do so and we went out on a true bass fishing adventure.
Tyler had the chance to fish the Rodman Reservoir Drawdown which is a special time to fish. It occurs every 3-4 years and is a sight to be seen. You are fishing in water that is generally 10-15 feet higher in elevation. Tyler had a blast, especially catching big fish all trip long.
The Rodman really showed its true colors on this fishing trip. Each bass Tyler caught was a new personal best. In the middle of his fishing trip, Tyler set the bar he will be trying to break for years to come. He caught his new personal best largemouth bass weighing in at 9 pounds 5 ounces. It was truly a beautiful fish!
Tyler also enjoyed catching a monster long nose gar measuring in at 54 inches. He caught most of the species you could catch on his fishing adventure with several largemouth bass in the 5-6 pound range.
Tyler had a great time fishing on the Rodman Reservoir and I am looking forward to seeing him back next year!” – Captain Ken Walker
Fishing with Captain David Lang
“Some of the best fishing trips are the ones that you get to spend multiple days with the client. I love getting to know them, laughing at jokes, and putting them on some beautiful largemouth bass.
I had the great honor of fishing with Clyde and his good friend on a three-day bass fishing adventure. They were traveling from Washington D.C, looking to explore what North Florida had to offer. We went out of the Reservoir and had a blast catching fish.
Sunny and beautiful weather all three days made for some productive fishing. Clyde and his friend caught right around 15 largemouth bass each day. When traveling to the Rodman Reservoir, big numbers aren’t what you are after. You generally come to this destination for big bass!
Clyde and his friend caught several largemouth bass in the 3-5 pound range. They also landed a giant largemouth bass weighing 7.5 pounds as well. It was awesome to see their faces light up when this fish made it to the boat.
Live wild-caught shiners were the most effective method to catch bass on this fishing trip. You truly can’t beat the action on the Reservoir with live bait.
Clyde and his friend had a great time fishing and are looking forward to catching some more big bass next time!” – Captain David Lang
Fishing with Captain Peter T
“One of my favorite fishing trips is when I get to explore bass fishing with a husband and wife. The bonding that takes place over a fishing trip is magical.
I had the pleasure of fishing with Trenton and his wife Kate. They were traveling from Texas looking to cash in on some bass fishing here in North Florida. The Rodman Reservoir was the perfect place for them to come and explore.
Breezy and windy conditions made it an interesting day on the water. Luckily, I had a few spots that we could go to in order to protect us from the wind. These conditions will not stop the bass from biting all trip long.
Trenton and his wife had a blast catching over 20 Florida largemouth bass on live bait. They had 3 fish in the boat that weighed over 5 pounds. Kate caught the biggest bass weighing 6 pounds 3 ounces. It was a fantastic day for the couple and they could not have been happier!
I love spending time with fantastic people like this and look forward to our next adventure!” – Captain Peter T
Fishing with Captain Chris Davy
“Fishing on the Rodman Reservoir has been very productive for all anglers. Young or old, you can come out and have a blast landing bass after bass. This is one of my favorite fisheries to take clients out on the water.
I had the opportunity to fish with Davis and Alissa. They were traveling from North Carolina looking to enjoy a day on the water. Florida vacations always call for getting outdoors in any way possible. Bass fishing on the Rodman Reservoir is one exceptional way to do so.
It was a fun day of fishing for Davis and Alissa. They caught over 15 largemouth bass in their quick 4-hour fishing trip. Most of the fish weighed between 3 – 5 pounds. Alissa came in strong with a Trophy Florida largemouth bass weighing 8.6 pounds.
What a day on the water for all those that were involved. Rodman Reservoir Fishing calls for live bait and it was a successful way to bring fish to the boat.
I am looking forward to fishing with them again in the near future!” – Captain Chris Davy
If now is not the time to plan that trophy bass fishing adventure on the Rodman Reservoir, then we do not know when it will be. Big bass and trophy-sized bass will continue to be caught here in the month of March. Our local experts work hard at making sure that everyone on board has the best chance at landing the biggest bass of their lives. If you are not coming to explore this wonderful place for a giant largemouth, sit back and enjoy the nature and beauty of the Rodman Reservoir.
We hope to have the opportunity to show you around on a successful day of March Rodman Reservoir Fishing right here in North Florida!
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Capt Gino Losi, Capt Kenneth Walker, Capt Peter T, Fishing Reports, Largemouth Bass, North Florida Reports, Rodman Reservoir, St Johns River
February North Florida Fishing
Wondering where you can catch your next personal best largemouth bass? North Florida is the ultimate destination to search down some giant bass. Whether you wanted to fish on the Rodman Reservoir or go fishing on the St. Johns River, this is a bass fishing paradise for all anglers. Getting outdoors is a must when visiting Florida and the beauty these fisheries can bring to your vacation will be unforgettable. Enjoy this February North Florida Fishing Report in search of trophy largemouth bass!
These fisheries are vast and covering water is key. Our local experts and their years of experience and knowledge can allow you to have the ultimate outdoor fishing adventure. Days on the water have dialed them in on the best fishing their fishery has to offer. When looking to go bass fishing here in North Florida, choosing a local expert is the way to go.
February bass fishing can be characterized by trophy catches and the spawn. Water temperatures have hit the right temperatures to initiate the spawn. Now is the time to cash in on some big bass fishing here in Florida. All across the state, you can enjoy quality largemouth bass fishing and hopefully land the fish of a lifetime!
Check out this February North Florida Fishing Report with our Local Experts:
Fishing with Captain Ken Walker
“Some trips can start out slow and end with a big bang. The Rodman Reservoir is one of those fisheries that you just can’t sleep on. Every cast, every take, and every bite could be the fish of your lifetime. It is the only place that you can consistently find giant Florida largemouth bass all year long.
I had the pleasure of fishing with Tim Jordan, who was traveling from North Florida to search down his new personal best. The Rodman Reservoir is one of his favorite places to do so. After having a slow start to the morning, the bite gradually picked up as the sun began to warm the surface of the water.
It was the second day of a cold front and I knew it was not going to be the most active day on the water. To my surprise, Rodman was not playing around on this fishing trip. The big bass were hungry and coming out to play.
Tim caught 8 beautiful largemouth bass on his fishing trip. One of those fish was his new personal best weighing in at a whopping 10 pounds 4 ounces. Giant trophy double digit largemouth bass are what you come to the Rodman Reservoir for.
I was excited to be part of this adventure. Tim put in some work and in the end got what he came for. I am looking forward to fishing with him again in the near future!
Fishing with Captain Gino Losi
“After many years of inconsistent fishing, I am happy to announce the St. Johns River is back in action. During the last major hurricane to hit Florida, saltwater erosion hurt the fishing conditions. As a result, it took many years for the bass fishing to come back alive.
I had the pleasure of fishing with Jon and his wife. They were traveling from Minnesota looking to cash in on some bass fishing here on the St. Johns River. North Florida is the perfect destination to explore Florida fishing, especially for largemouth bass. 
A mix of clouds and breezy fishing conditions made for a productive bite. The spawn is in full effect on the St. Johns River. You can find staging fish at the mouth of the canals and shell bars. As you travel through the canal systems you can also find bedding fish.
Jon and his wife had an absolute blast catching over 15 largemouth bass on their fishing trip. Most of the fish were caught on wild-caught live shiners. It was great to see the quality of fish caught on this trip. Numbers of 3-4 pound fish were brought to the boat.
North Florida from the St. Johns River to the Rodman Reservoir is on for some great bass fishing. I look forward to fishing with Jon again in the near future!” – Captain Gino Losi
Fishing with Captain Peter T
“Fishing on the Rodman Reservoir is starting to really pick up. When looking to catch multiple and numbers of quality largemouth bass, this is the destination to travel to. North Florida holds some exceptional waters for putting people on their biggest bass ever.
I had the pleasure of fishing with Mike and his family. They were traveling from Gainesville, FL, looking to check out what Rodman Reservoir Fishing was all about. What a day on the water for this family, especially considering the windy conditions that were persistent all trip long.
Mike and his family caught over 15 largemouth bass on this fishing trip. Most of the fish were in the 2-4 pound range. 5 of their best fish weighed in at 5 pounds 14 ounces, 6.4, 7.4, and the biggest was 8 pounds and 14 ounces. NOW that is what bass fishing on the Rodman Reservoir is all about!
Mike and his family had a fantastic time on the water and are looking forward to exploring its wonders again soon!” – Capt Peter T
North Florida is the place to explore when looking for some big bass. Whether you are looking for the fish of a lifetime or just a relaxing day on the water, North Florida has so much to offer. Every trip is unique and can be tailored to your needs. We hope that you get the chance to explore what Florida has to offer.
The fishing is starting to get really good and NOW is the time to plan those bass fishing getaways. Book in advance as our spots are filling up fast. We look forward to seeing you on the water next time on the Rodman Reservoir or St. Johns River!
Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram.
Capt David Lang, Capt Kenneth Walker, Capt Peter T, Fishing Reports, Largemouth Bass, North Florida Reports, Rodman Reservoir
December North Florida Fishing
The end of December is here and the new year is upon us. As the cooler months arrive, the bass fishing will begin to get better and better. One of the reasons is that the cooler water temperatures signal largemouth bass to begin their spawning process. As a result, it will give you the chance to catch the biggest bass of your life. All you need is some December North Florida Fishing to get you in love with the outdoors.
Currently, the Rodman Reservoir is going through its drawdown period. As water management lowers the water levels for ecological maintenance, the bass will begin to get stacked in key areas. This will allow you to target them and catch larger numbers of quality fish.
One of the keys to having success on the water is a local expert. Years of experience has allowed them to dial in on prime locations to land big bass. When looking for that trophy largemouth bass, our local experts are some of the best to get you on them.
Check out this North Florida Fishing update for largemouth bass and crappie:
The Rodman Reservoir is a beautiful fishery to explore this time of year. I had the pleasure of fishing with Rich, Bryn, and Zac. This group of guys were part of a larger group of family members looking to explore North Florida. While they were visiting from Montana, a Florida bass fishing trip was a must.
As a result, these 7 family members charted out on a two boat fishing adventure with Captain Peter T and myself. The fishing has been picking up and producing some quality bass on each trip. Wild-caught live shiners were the best method to put fish in the boat.
Young Zac caught the biggest fish on this trip. It weighed in at almost 6 pounds. It was a beautiful and very healthy fish. Zac really enjoyed the fight of this nice largemouth bass.
Rich, Bryn, and Zac all had a fantastic time fishing on the Reservoir. They landed a total of 17 largemouth bass in their short 4-hour fishing trip. Captain Peter’s boat also had success landing some big bass on their trip.
I am looking forward to seeing this family back again in the near future!” – Captain Ken Walker
Shortly after this fishing trip, Captain David Lang explored what the Rodman could offer.
“No day that you get to explore North Florida and more specifically the Rodman Reservoir is a bad day. I had the pleasure of fishing with Robert, his father and his best friend on a bass fishing trip. They always wanted to explore the Rodman Reservoir.
Robert and his family were traveling from Wisconsin looking to experience the outdoors. Sunny and beautiful weather enhanced their experience. Everyone on board had a blast catching bass all trip long. It was a quick 4-hour fishing charter with steady action. 
Unfortunately, we could not find any giant fish but everyone on board landed several nice bass. Robert and his family caught over 10 largemouth bass with the biggest weighing over 4 pounds.
As time moves on and the water temperature stabilizes, the big bass will begin to move to shallow water. When this happens, you will get the opportunity to catch big females looking for a snack.
I am looking forward to fishing with Robert and his family again on their next outdoor fishing adventure in North Florida!” – Captain David Lang
A change of pace occurred on this next fishing update. Captain Ken explored Lake Santa Fe for some giant Crappie or Speck!
“When it comes to crappie or speck fishing, numbers are always the target. Sometimes you come across some bigger fish that can surprise you. I had the pleasure of fishing with Matt and Tyler on beautiful Lake Santa Fe.
This place is a honey hole for speck fishing. Trolling is always a preferred method to catch fish on this lake. Matt and Tyler landed over 19 crappie on this fishing trip.
The biggest fish measured in at 16 inches. It was a blast for everyone on board. We love to see constant action all trip long. The preferred method to catching these crappie was to troll around underwater structure.
Luckily, the action was on and they landed some beautiful big crappie. Everyone on board was happy with their fishing experience and I am looking forward to getting them back out again for more!” – Capt Ken
Explore North Florida for Largemouth Bass and Crappie (Speck) while Rodman Reservoir Fishing
Every chance that you get to experience what North Florida is all about should be seized. Bass fishing is one of the best outdoor activities you can embark on. Every year and month, anglers from across the globe travel to North Florida to experience all that there is to offer.
Each experience is unique and can be tailored to your needs. Don’t overlook bass fishing, especially on the Rodman Reservoir. It is one of the best trophy bass fisheries to explore in Florida. Now is the time to experience it as well.
The Rodman Reservoir Drawdown is currently going on. When you explore this amazing place, nothing can prepare you for what you will experience. The views and constant action will keep you coming back for years.
We hope that we get the chance to show you around the Rodman Reservoir on your next visit to North Florida!
If you enjoyed this post with our Local Experts, you might also enjoy this fishing report from the same area.
Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram.
Capt David Lang, Capt Kenneth Walker, Capt Peter T, Crappie (Speck) Fishing, Fishing Reports, Lake Santa Fe, Largemouth Bass, North Florida Reports, Rodman Reservoir
North Florida Crappie Fishing
Are you a freshwater fisherman that loves the outdoors? If you also enjoy a fresh catch to cook up, crappie or speck fishing might be the perfect activity for you. North Florida crappie fishing is a great way to experience the beautiful fisheries of Florida. During select times of the year, you can have a blast catching numbers of crappie with a variety of different methods.
December is a fantastic time of year to go fishing in Florida. Cooler weather and beautiful mornings make for a great day on the water. You never know what you will see when exploring out on one of the many fisheries up North.
Best North Florida Crappie Fishing Destinations:
The two best fisheries for crappie fishing in Florida are the Rodman Reservoir and Lake Santa Fe. If you are looking to strictly go crappie fishing, Lake Santa Fe is your best bet. When looking to experience one of the most unique fisheries in Florida for both crappie and largemouth bass, the Rodman Reservoir is your best bet.
Lake Santa Fe is quite unique. As you arrive at the meeting location, step out under a canopy of trees inside this small park. You will meander through a canal toward the entrance to the lake. Once you enter Lake Santa Fe, the open water consumes you. Left and right, you can witness big beautiful homes that make for a perfect touch.
Now, the Rodman Reservoir is by far one of my favorite fisheries to explore. There is just something about it. It is one destination that will explode your sensory receptors. This overwhelming rush makes the Rodman Reservoir an irresistible fishing experience for 2019 and 2020. Whether it is for crappie or trophy largemouth bass, plan on an adventure that you will never forget.
It is truly hard to put words to what it is like to explore the Rodman Reservoir. During this select period of time, the reservoir is in a drawdown phase. Rodman Reservoir drawdown fishing is just simply remarkable.
When you arrive at the boat ramp, feast your eyes on a gorgeous sunrise. Low light makes for an ambiance like no other. Once you step aboard, sit back and enjoy what you are about to experience.
Rodman Reservoir Crappie Fishing with Captain Ken Walker
Fishing with Dad
“One of the best parts about the Rodman Reservoir is that you can catch an abundance of different species in one fishing trip. I love being a guide because every cast, you just don’t know what the angler aboard is going to set the hook into. 
During this first fishing trip, I had the pleasure of fishing with my dad. We were scouting new waters on the Rodman Reservoir and found some great fish. The sunrise was breathtaking, making this a wonderful time with my dad.
On this fishing trip, we caught 14 largemouth bass weighing up to 6 pounds. As well, we found several schools of crappie landing a big one weighing in at 1 pound 13 ounces. Also, the action did not stop there. I caught a 4.5-foot alligator gar that added some excitement.
I love fishing with my Dad and I am looking forward to our next adventure. Always searching for his next trophy largemouth bass” – Capt Ken Walker
Fishing with Chuck Decker
“All of a sudden, the Reservoir went off. I had an awesome day of fishing with Chuck Decker. Chuck is a local native that loves to get out on the water with me on occasion. Crappie fishing was on his mind and they sure showed up for us today.
It is always nice to spend a day on the water with someone that you can fish with. Chuck and I caught over 50 crappies on this fishing trip. The best part was that 15 of them were over 2 pounds. The top two fish weighed in at 2 pounds 14 ounces and 2 pounds 9 ounces.
Catching crappie in Florida is not easy. You have to locate the structure and pods of bait in order to find the fish. The best methods to catch crappie or speck on this fishing trip were jigs and minnows. Both can really draw up some great fish.
Chuck really enjoyed this fishing trip. I am looking forward to our next adventure on the water!” – Captain Ken Walker
Lake Santa Fe Crappie Fishing with Captain David Lang
Another beautiful location to explore Crappie fishing is Lake Santa Fe. This fishery is located in Melrose, FL and is quite remote. Its remoteness makes for a very interesting fishing experience. During this time of year, you can catch both crappie and largemouth bass. Crappie fishing gets really strong throughout the winter months.
“Crappie fishing is something that I have recently started to focus more attention too. There is something about setting out 12 rods loaded with minnows waiting to see what is going to happen. Utilizing technology you can almost anticipate the strike.
BAM! Just like that, one of my Mr. Crappie rods was down. Shortly after that, another one went down too.
I had the pleasure of fishing with Capt Joe, who is on our team here at Bass Online. While he was traveling from South Florida, he wanted to get out crappie fishing after a bass fishing trip on the Rodman Reservoir.
As a result, Capt Joe and Capt Ken both came out to explore what Lake Santa Fe had to offer. We were able to experience almost every corner of Lake Santa Fe.
The use of my spider rigs and Humminbird gave allowed us to cover water quickly. All trip long we steadily caught crappie. After catching over 15 crappies in a short period of time and only keeping about 7, we called it a day.
Unfortunately, Capt Joe was getting in the car and heading home so he could not harvest the fish. We donated the fish to local fishing at the boat ramp dock with their kids. Everyone enjoys some specks and crappie for a nice meal!
It was a lot of fun fishing with Captain Joe and Ken! Looking forward to getting back out on the water soon!” – Captain David Lang
Whether it is for crappie or Florida largemouth bass, North Florida is the place to visit. It is a true freshwater fishing paradise for all your needs. Each adventure and fishing trip you embark on will leave a lasting imprint.
Our local experts work hard at showing you a fantastic time on the water. Take advantage of their time and ask them questions on how to become a better angler and what techniques you can apply back home. Years of experience can help you dial in tactics to help you have success wherever you enjoy fish.
We hope to have the opportunity to fish with you on your next North Florida vacation. See you on the water next time while Rodman Reservoir Fishing or on Lake Santa Fe!
Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram.
Capt David Lang, Capt Kenneth Walker, Capt Peter T, Fishing Reports, Largemouth Bass, North Florida Reports, Rodman Reservoir
Rodman Reservoir Bass Fishing Trip
On some occasions, waking up early in the morning is a pleasure. You spring out of bed with excitement about what the day is going to bring. As you sip a hot coffee, a cool crisp air hits your face as you step outside. Already you can feel that your Rodman Reservoir bass fishing trip was about to get interesting.
It was time to go, so we climbed into the truck. Still completely dark, we traveled through the long winding north Florida roads. You felt like you were driving through a tunnel with the thick canopy tops overhead. After a short drive, we arrived in a small town. Captain Ken Walker had to make a pit stop.
When it comes to bass fishing on the Rodman Reservoir, the most important ingredient is live bait and more specifically, wild-caught live shiners. Early mornings calls for waiting to get this prized commodity that helps increase your chances of success.
See, I love catching big bass. Every year, I visit the Rodman Reservoir near Palatka, FL to try to break my personal best. Last year, I caught the biggest bass of my life on the reservoir and I was coming back to beat it, and live bait is the way to do so.
Each adventure and experience at this breathtaking fishery is truly unique. This year was even more captivating. The Rodman Reservoir is a must-see fishery for all those that love to catch bass.
December marked the 2nd month of the Rodman Reservoir Drawdown. Nothing could have prepared me for what I was about to experience. I knew this was a magical time to go fishing but it far exceeded my expectations.
After picking up our wild-caught live shiners, we drove off to the boat ramp. It was part of the Ocklawaha river that was submerged with 10 feet of water before drawdown. Now, it operates as a perfect boat ramp to get into the reservoir.
I climbed aboard Captain Ken’s 21ft Mako. Right after me, Captain David Lang climbed aboard. Just as safe light broke, we were off with a slow pace toward the sunrise. I knew this trip was about to be exhilarating.
Just as the sun peeked through the horizon, we were meandering through the hidden channels in an S formation. This cool morning brought on one of the most amazing sunrises I had ever seen.
It was not long until we arrived at a field of stumps. After soaking our baits on the outside of this field, we entered. These stumps would usually be underwater, but now are providing a safe haven for largemouth bass.
Captain Ken found his spot and we anchored where you could barely see us. Staying quiet, we began fishing. The live bait danced around and found themselves pinned throughout the stumps.
Watching your bait cruise through the stumps was stimulating because you did not know when the fish was going to strike. By far, the best part about fishing the reservoir during drawdown is fishing in the stumps. There is nothing like it!
It was not long until a hungry bass came along to feed during these peak times. One of the major feeds of the day struck and we started putting fish in the boat. I caught a beautiful big bass weighing in at 6 pounds. Shortly after that, I put a 5-pound largemouth in the boat as well.
The day was already a success and we had the whole trip left. Captain David and Ken both started to catch fish. The spot was on fire for several hours of our trip.
After it turned off in the early afternoon, Captain Ken took us to another spot. Deepwater and great structure made for great conditions during this time. We soaked our baits again, waiting patiently for the action to begin.
Just shortly after this, a bass blows up on a shiner. Captain Ken advises to let him take it. After a few moments, Captain Ken says “Reel, Reel, Reel, SET IT!” It was on from there with some hard fights and mouth gaping water thrashing.
That feeling of watching your bait gets blown up on along with watching your line strip off your reel gets my heart pumping. The biggest reason for this is because when you go on a Rodman Reservoir bass fishing trip, you never know what size fish is going to be on the other line.
Whether it is the stumps or open water, the bass love to chase after the bait making the fishing so much more exciting. Even though, some of our fish dug themselves under stumps causing us to break off.
During the drawdown, expect to get hung up and break off because that is just the nature of the beast. It is a factor that makes the trip even more interesting because every fish in the boat is a blessing.
After fishing this open water, we headed back into the stumps for some late afternoon action. Our first spot was taken but Captain Ken always has several options. We found our new spot and made our way to it.
All around us were prime areas to fish. It was not long until the bass started to bite again. Fishing was action-packed the whole trip. Whether it was the fishing, stories, or laughing, being out on the water was incredibly relaxing.
The weather was perfect for a great day on the water as well. Warm sunshine pushed away from the cool air and heated the water temperature. This caused and helped promote such a strong bite.
Between Captain Ken, Captain David, and myself, we put over 20 fish in the boat. It was a lot of fun to learn new techniques, see different areas, and get the full Rodman Reservoir experience on this trip.
I might not have caught another personal best but that fish is going to be hard to beat. There is no doubt in my mind that I will be back up there for prime time, which is January through April. I just have to fish it again and most likely bring along some friends this time.
Bass fishing is a strong passion of mine and I love to pass it on. Getting the opportunity to go out fishing with Bass Online and & iOutdoors Local Experts in north Florida was a true pleasure. Years of professionalism and experience have made them the BEST guides in the business.
When you go out to explore the waters of the reservoir, you have to get out with true experts. They know when, where, and how to fish in this beautiful place. I can personally say myself, after fishing with Captain Ken twice, he’s a true expert when it comes to bass fishing with live bait.
I am beyond thankful for this fishing trip. It will be one I will never forget. I am excited to get back out on the water soon with Captain Ken!
Coming soon is Part 2 about our North Florida Crappie Fishing trip!
If you are planning on traveling to north Florida this upcoming winter, bass fishing is a great way to get in the outdoors. This destination is a paradise for freshwater fishing and outdoor adventures. Whether you are looking for your next personal best or just want to catch some big bass, now is the time to do so.
The largemouth bass in the Rodman Reservoir is gorging on food. As a result, they are incredibly healthy and ready to pack a great fight. These fish have small heads and big bodies. It was neat to see how full these fish were. Rodman Reservoir fishing is one thing I look forward to every year!
Rodman Reservoir bass fishing can be the next fishing adventure you will never forget. We hope that during the drawdown that you get the chance to explore the waters. Bass fishing is about to get really good and spots book up fast!
See you on the water next time!!
If you enjoyed this post with our Local Experts, you might also enjoy this fishing report from the same area.
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About Capt Kenneth Walker is a Air Force Veteran, Father, grandfather, and retired firefighter paramedic. A Florida Native Kenneth grew up in Gainesville and has fished the local waterways since the age of 3. Now he is sharing those experiences with you on his exclusive fishing guide trips.
