RV Vacations & Camping Ideas
Southeast USA-Florida
Attractions at Cape Kennedy Space Center by
Howard Farmer
Central Florida lakes are very popular among fishermen and people who want to
experience nature on their vacations. Take a few days of your trip to enjoy all
this area has to offer. This is a perfect way to relax after spending a few
hectic days in the crowded theme parks.
Fishing in Central Florida Lakes
The lakes in central Florida offer many great
spots for fishing. This combined with the great weather allows you to fish all
year round. The large mouth bass is the best known and most popular fresh water
fish in Florida. The central lakes are known for large bass and trophy sized
fish are routinely found in these waters.
The Bass World Lodge on St. Johns River is a very
good spot for large fish. Lake Okeechobee is a very large lake in the middle of
the state. The name means big water in the language of the Seminole Indians. The
name is very fitting for this particular body of water. The lake is thirty seven
miles long and thirty miles wide. In most areas, the lake is ten feet deep. A
large number of bass are found here. There are more fish caught here weighing
over ten pounds than any other lake in central Florida.
Lake Toho is the most popular lake in the
Kissimmee chain. This is a shallow lake that is about 18,800 acres of water. The
aquatic vegetation in the lake offers abundant food for fish. This makes good
spawning grounds and allows for plenty of fish. The fish grow quite large with
the abundant food supply. A fishing tournament is held here each year in the
fall.
The bass is most abundant during the spawning
season. This occurs between December and April of every year. During this time,
fish weighing from eight pounds all the way up to the high teens can be caught
in the lakes around this part of the state.
If you are planning to fish on your trip, there
are some things you will need. You will need a Florida fishing license. These
can be purchased at most bait or tackle shops in the state. The weather tends to
be hot and the sun is strong, so you will need protection. Be sure to bring
sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Wear light weight, comfortable clothing to help
keep cool in the hot weather. Bring along a rod, tackle and a camera to capture
a picture of the big one.
Guided fishing tours are available at most large
lakes. These can be half day or full day trips. The rates for the tours vary
according to the company and time of year. Reduced rates are available for
larger parties. Some guided tours provide tackle. Be sure to ask when you book
the tour.
State Parks near Central Florida Lakes
The state park system in Florida is one of the
largest in the country. There are over twenty that are not far from the downtown
Orlando area. Many are located near large lakes as well. Some of the closest
parks to the downtown area include: Wekiwa Springs State Park and Tosohatchee
State Reserve.
The proximity of the parks allows you to
experience nature, while staying close to the theme parks. You will find
wildlife, vegetation and native birds. A variety of animals call the state parks
home. Some of the animals you may encounter include: alligators, turtles, river
otters, raccoons, bobcats, black bears, foxes and deer. A variety of birds can
be found in the parks as well. Bald Eagles, ospreys, turkey, owls, hawks and
sand hill cranes are often found in state parks.