There are various sections of lake areas within Kissimmee, which are considered part of the old Florida environment, untouched by industrialization. There are rather large lakes and smaller lakes, with waterway channels interconnecting, teeming with trophy-sized bass. People can fish from the shore, or take a small boat out into deeper lake sections. Guides can take people out to fish, and professional anglers head to West Lake Toho and compete in annual bass fishing tournaments.
West Lake Toho
West Lake Toho is 22,700 acres, and 13 miles in length. The lake is shallow, and the perfect spot for you to fly fish for bass, both wading in the water, or from shore. West Lake Toho is also an unspoiled lake native to Florida, left non-pillaged by industry. The lake teems with bass, and is a favorite location to fish, both by professional and non professional anglers alike.
Tournaments
If you are a competitive angler, there is an annual bass fishing tournament called the F.L.W., or Forrest L. Wood Bass Tournament Event, and is also the location for the annual Bassmaster Tournament.
Bass sizes are what make the lake a favorite hot spot. The bass caught at Lake Toho range in sizes from five to 10 pounds, but many are more than 10 pounds. You may hook a big one while fishing in the lake. The more weight to the fish, the better a fighting fish when hooked, providing a challenge for you.
West Lake Tohopekaliga
South of Kissimmee is West Lake Tohopekaliga. The Everglades headwaters run into West Lake Tohopekaliga. Part of the Everglades ecosystem trickles into the lake, where maidencane and bullrush reeds grow under the water, and where bass feed. The areas that you can fish are around these sections, or most types of obvious vegetation. The more vegetation, the more bass feeding in one spot. The eastern part of the lake is where you can fish for largemouth bass.
Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
The Kissimmee Chain of Lakes is 100,000 acres. There are various chains, including 20 public lakes connected by canals, flowing south to Kissimmee River, so there are ample opportunities and spots for you to fish. In total, the entire area of lakes ranges from 200 to 44,000 acres, and includes Lake Toho and West Lake Tohopekaliga.
Licensing
Licensing rates vary. If you are a Florida resident, as of 2010, a freshwater fishing license is $17. If you are a non-resident, $47. Licenses are always required when fishing in Kissimmee lakes. If you choose to go out with a professional guide, you may not need to purchase a license. It is a good idea to check before hand when inquiring about a fishing excursion. Fishing licenses can be applied for online at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website. Licenses can also be obtained at most local sporting goods stores.
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