FLORIDA FISHING FORECASTS: OCTOBER
The following is the Great Florida Fishing's curated list of local fishing forecasts around Florida. We share links and information from authoritative sources as well as "locals" to give you the best resource to plan your next fishing excursion. Check back before your next trip for the current fishing forecasts to the area.
OCTOBER SALTWATER FORECAST
NORTHWEST FLORIDA: PANHANDLE PARADISE
The fall transition in Northwest Florida creates a bounty of opportunities for inshore and offshore anglers alike. REDFISH are on fire this time of year, especially in Pensacola Bay and around the jetties of Destin, where large schools of bull reds congregate. The thrill of hooking a trophy bull red—often weighing upwards of 30 pounds—will give any angler a serious adrenaline rush. Don’t forget to check out the incredible SPECKLED TROUT bite in the grassy flats of Choctawhatchee Bay.
Offshore, KING MACKEREL make their run, and with the cooling waters, you can also target GAG GROUPER and RED SNAPPER in the deeper reefs. For a thrilling fight, venture further offshore for BLACKFIN TUNA—they’re small but powerful fighters.
NORTHEAST FLORIDA: JACKSONVILLE’S TROPHY SEASON
October in Northeast Florida means big action for FLOUNDER as they begin their migration offshore. Flounder fishing around the inlets and bridges near Jacksonville is phenomenal this month, with many fish hitting 3-5 pounds or more. There’s nothing quite like the subtle tug of a flounder, followed by the steady pull of a larger fish as you work to get it into your net.
TARPON also remain active around St. Augustine, particularly for those who are willing to put in the effort near the inlets. These silver kings, some exceeding 100 pounds, are a sight to behold as they leap and twist during the fight. The inshore waters also host excellent runs of REDFISH and SHEEPSHEAD, making this a well-rounded time for both sport and table fish.
EAST CENTRAL FLORIDA: INDIAN RIVER LAGOON & MOSQUITO LAGOON
In East Central Florida, the INDIAN RIVER LAGOON and MOSQUITO LAGOON light up in October, with SNOOK, REDFISH, and SPECKLED TROUT providing outstanding inshore action. This region is known for its trophy redfish—some tipping the scales at 40 pounds or more. The sight of these bronze behemoths tailing in shallow water is nothing short of electrifying.
For those venturing offshore, the fall run of KINGFISH and COBIA is in full swing. Don’t overlook the fun of chasing SPANISH MACKEREL, which are abundant and eager to strike fast-moving lures.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA: CHARLOTTE HARBOR TO TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS
The mangrove-lined backwaters ofCHARLOTTE HARBORand TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS are teeming with life in October. Snook are moving back into the estuaries, feeding aggressively as they prepare for the cooler months. Their acrobatic jumps and hard runs make them a favorite for both novice and experienced anglers.
Further south, the EVERGLADES are alive with TARPON and PERMIT. The tarpon here can range from 40 to 80 pounds, offering anglers plenty of fight in the skinny waters. GOLIATH GROUPER, although protected, provide a battle like no other. Hooking one of these giants in the passes around Boca Grande is an experience that leaves anglers in awe of the sheer power of these fish.
SOUTHEAST FLORIDA: FORT LAUDERDALE TO THE FLORIDA KEYS
October is one of the best times for fishing the waters from Fort Lauderdale down through the FLORIDA KEYS. MAHI-MAHI (Dolphinfish) are still around, with many boats reporting excellent catches 10-20 miles offshore. The thrill of seeing a school of mahi race toward the boat is an unforgettable experience, and their vibrant colors make them one of the most photogenic fish in the sea.
Inshore, BONEFISH and PERMIT are the stars of the flats fishing scene in the Keys. These elusive fish are known for their speed and power, with bonefish reaching up to 10 pounds. It’s hard to top the excitement of watching a bonefish peel off 100 yards of line in seconds!
The waters off Miami and the Keys are also heating up for SAILFISH, with anglers trolling live baits along the reef lines for a chance to catch these acrobatic, hard-hitting fish.
WEST CENTRAL FLORIDA: TAMPA BAY & BEYOND
October in TAMPA BAY means the return of big schools of KINGFISH and SPANISH MACKEREL. Kingfish, especially the larger ones in the 30-40 pound range, are a formidable opponent, and their high-speed runs make for thrilling action. The COBIA migration is also well underway, with fish often found following large rays and sharks in the shallows.
Inshore, the REDFISH bite is at its peak, and anglers can expect to find large schools working the grass flats. SNOOK fishing also remains productive along mangrove shorelines and near passes. For a mix of action and relaxation, targeting MANGROVE SNAPPER near the bridges and docks is a sure bet for a fresh fish dinner.
OCTOBER FRESHWATER FORECAST OVERVIEW
NORTH FLORIDA: SUWANNEE RIVER & ST. JOHNS RIVER
October in North Florida means the bass fishing is heating up as largemouth bass become more active in the cooler water temperatures. The SUWANNEE RIVER is renowned for its SUWANNEE BASS, a unique species found only in this region. These feisty fish may be smaller than largemouth bass but make up for it with their strong, aggressive fight, making every catch feel like a triumph.
The ST. JOHNS RIVER offers top-notch fishing for LARGEMOUTH BASS, particularly around Palatka and Lake George. In October, bass start moving out of their summer haunts and into shallower areas, making them easier to target. Don’t miss out on the excitement of hooking a trophy bass weighing 5-8 pounds, especially when they explode on topwater lures.
CRAPPIE (Speckled Perch) fishing also picks up in the fall, with anglers finding success near submerged structures and in the deeper holes of the river systems.
CENTRAL FLORIDA: LAKE TOHO & KISSIMMEE CHAIN OF LAKES
In Central Florida, October is a prime time to fish the famous KISSIMMEE CHAIN OF LAKES, particularly LAKE TOHOPEKALIGA (LAKE TOHO). This area is world-renowned for LARGEMOUTH BASS fishing, with the cooler water temperatures bringing more fish into the shallows. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of flipping heavy vegetation and feeling that unmistakable tug from a monster bass. October often produces trophy-sized catches, some exceeding 10 pounds.
In addition to bass, BLUEGILL and SHELLCRACKER (Redear Sunfish) offer fun panfishing action, making this area perfect for family outings or anglers looking to mix up their catches.
SOUTH FLORIDA: LAKE OKEECHOBEE
October marks the beginning of the prime fishing season on LAKE OKEECHOBEE, one of Florida’s most famous freshwater fishing destinations. The cooler temperatures cause LARGEMOUTH BASS to become more active, moving into shallower grass beds and weed lines to feed. Fishing the “Big O” is always an adventure, and the chance to hook into a bass over 8 pounds adds an element of excitement that keeps anglers coming back for more.
Crappie (locally known as SPECKS) fishing is also excellent this time of year, especially around areas with submerged vegetation or man-made structure like fish attractors. Anglers report fantastic catches in the 10-12 inch range, making for a fun and rewarding day on the water.
NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA: RODMAN RESERVOIR
RODMAN RESERVOIR, located near Gainesville, is a legendary destination for bass anglers. October is one of the best months to fish this body of water as the LARGEMOUTH BASS are on the move, feeding heavily before winter. The reservoir is known for producing trophy bass regularly, and the cooler temperatures often result in aggressive bites on both live bait and lures.
This area also offers great opportunities for BOWFIN and GAR, two species that put up a wild fight. Hooking into one of these powerful fish is an exciting change of pace for anglers looking to target something other than bass.
NORTHEAST FLORIDA: LAKE GEORGE & CRESCENT LAKE
Northeast Florida offers excellent fall fishing on LAKE GEORGE, the second largest lake in the state. Anglers can target STRIPED BASS and HYBRID STRIPED BASS, which make for an intense fight when hooked. These fish are known for their powerful runs, and landing a large striper can be the highlight of any freshwater trip.
CRESCENT LAKE is another excellent spot in the region, especially for anglers looking to target CRAPPIE and BLUEGILL. The cooler weather tends to concentrate crappie schools, making it easier to locate and catch good numbers of fish.
WEST FLORIDA: APALACHICOLA RIVER
The APALACHICOLA RIVER in the Panhandle offers unique freshwater fishing opportunities. October is prime time to target STRIPED BASS and HYBRID STRIPED BASS, with these hard-fighting fish making their way upriver. They are particularly aggressive in the cooler water, hitting live bait and artificial lures with explosive strikes. Striper fishing on the Apalachicola is a true test of angling skill, as these fish can weigh upwards of 20 pounds.
Anglers can also expect good action on LARGEMOUTH BASS in the tributaries and oxbows of the river. The combination of scenic river fishing and hard-hitting bass makes this a must-visit destination for freshwater anglers.
EVERGLADES & SOUTH FLORIDA CANALS
The maze of canals in SOUTH FLORIDA, including the EVERGLADES and areas near Miami, offers an exotic freshwater fishing experience. In October, the cooler weather brings out more aggressive PEACOCK BASS, which are known for their incredible strength and vibrant colors. These fish strike hard and fight even harder, making each catch feel like a small battle.
The canals also offer excellent opportunities for LARGEMOUTH BASS, MAYAN CICHLIDS, and OSCARS, creating a diverse fishing experience where anglers can target multiple species in a single trip.
FLORIDA FISHING FORECASTS BY REGION: CHOOSE A FLORIDA DESTINATION!
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