Fishing

Central Florida freshwater lakes and rivers teem with all kinds of fish, especially largemouth black bass but also perch, catfish, sunfish, and pike, which makes this area a popular spot for fishing tournaments.

To fish in most Florida waters, anglers over 16 need a fishing license, which is available at bait-and-tackle shops, fishing camps, most sporting goods stores, and in the sporting goods section of Walmarts and Bass Pro Shops. Some of these locations might not sell saltwater licenses, or they might serve non-Florida residents only; so call ahead to be on the safe side. For nonresidents of Florida, freshwater or saltwater licenses cost $17 for three consecutive days, $30 for seven consecutive days, and $47 for one year. For Florida residents under age 65, a freshwater or saltwater license is $17 per year for each or $32.50 for both. A five-year fishing license costs Florida residents $79 for both. Fishing on a private lake with the owner's permission—which is what anglers do at Disney World—does not require a Florida fishing license. For more information on proper licensing, contact Florida Fish and Wildlife (850/488–4676 www.fwc.com/recreation).

Orlando Area

Although some once-great fishing spots have been affected by pollution, most have largely retained their freshwater status and remain among the area's best fishing lakes. A popular favorite is Lake Kissimmee, as well as the Butler and Conway chains of lakes, and Kissimmee's massive Lake Tohopekaliga (aka: Lake Toho), a Native American name meaning "Sleeping Tiger." (The name was given to the generally placid lake as its waters become incredibly rough during thunderstorms and have sent more than a few fishermen to a watery grave. Be careful in summer when you see storm clouds.) Lake Toho is held in high regard by the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society, since it is the source of the all-time record Tournament Catch. Your best chance for trophy fish is between November and April on Toho or Kissimmee.

For good creels, the Butler area is your best bet and has the additional advantage of its scenery: lots of live oaks and cypresses, plus the occasional osprey or bald eagle. Toho and Kissimmee are also good for largemouth bass and crappie. The Butler chain yields largemouth, some pickerel, and the occasional huge catfish. Services range from equipment and boat rental to full-day trips with guides and guarantees. Like virtually all lakes in Florida, the big Orlando-area lakes are teeming with alligators, which you'll find totally harmless unless you engage in the unwise practice of swimming at night. Small pets are more vulnerable than humans and should never be allowed to swim in Florida lakes or rivers. The key differences between the public lakes and the Disney lakes is that you have the option of keeping the fish you catch on the public lakes, while Disney has a catch-and-release policy. You'll also need a license when fishing on public lakes, but not on Disney's privately owned lakes.

That said, if you'd like a glimpse of Old Florida (what locals recall as what Orlando was like before Disney) just head to a fish camp, which you'll find around Lake Toho and other nearby natural waterways. With their weatherbeaten docks and rustic campgrounds, most retain an authentic look and feel that is distinctly different from the artificial visages of the theme parks and attractions. Most have general stores where you'll find a bait and tackle shop, boat rentals, snacks, beer, ice, and everything you need for a day on the water. There's never been a four-star fish camp, so lodging often consists of cabins or trailers with standard amenities and, occasionally, kitchenettes that are convenient for long-term stays. The primary appeal of a fish camp is the opportunity to see what Orlando looks like in its natural state—with picturesque lakes, quiet forests, colorful sunsets, and wildlife including deer, grazing cattle, osprey, raccoons, and bald eagles,

Guides operate out of the area's fishing camps, and you can usually make arrangements to hire them through the camp office. Rates vary, but for two people, a good price is around $300 for a half-day and $450 for a full day. Many area guides are part-timers, who fish on weekends or take a day off from their full-time job.

Fishing Camps

A number of excellent fishing camps in the form of lakeside campgrounds draw a more outdoorsy crowd than you'll find elsewhere in the area.

Bass Challenger Guide Service. With Captain Eddie at the helm, BCG takes you wherever the fishing is best that day. It might be Lake Toho or the St. Johns River—Florida's longest and one of the few that runs north—which is a prime bass site. Indeed, bass is the only quarry. BCG also sells bait, arranges for transportation to and from your hotel, organizes multiday trips, and books area accommodations. Check in advance for advice on practical fishing apparel and accessories as well as license requirements. Sanford, Florida. 321/377–2013; www.basschallenger.com. Half-day trips from $300.

Boggy Creek Resort & RV Park. You can see what kept tourists entertained in pre-Disney days at this camp, which has a restaurant and country store, sells live bait and propane, rents boats, and offers airboat rides.It's hard to believe this much of Old Florida is just a few minutes (but several decades) away from Walt Disney World, but it is, and that's why you're here. The camp has 286 RV sites and simple, rustic cabins. During peak winter and spring months, plan to reserve one of their 24 cabins at least two weeks in advance. 3705 Big Bass Rd., Kissimmee, Florida, 34744. 407/348–2040; www.boggycreekresortandrvpark.com. Cabins from $79 per night.

Lake Charters. This outfitter conducts trips from November to May on Lake Toho (January through April is high season, so reserve accordingly). Rods and reels are included in the cost, transportation is available, and you can also buy your licenses here. An informative website will fill you in on details regarding rates and what you'll catch (which might be a 14-pound bass). 1550 Scottys Rd., Kissimmee, Florida, 34744. 407/891–2275; 877/326–3575; www.lakecharter.com. Half-day trips from $275.

Richardson's Fish Camp. Rustic and remote, this camp on western Lake Toho is a place where time began standing still in the 1950s. Relaxing by the water, setting up a cookout, watching the wildlife (deer, osprey, eagles, and company), or catching a glorious Florida sunset are just a few of the activities you'll enjoy in a place where the most pressing issue is whether to fish or not (you'll probably fish). The camp has 7 cabins with kitchenettes, 16 RV sites, and 6 tent sites, as well as boat slips and a bait shop. The camp is peaceful, quiet, and pet-friendly. 1550 Scottys Rd., Kissimmee, Florida, 34744. 407/846–6540. Cabins from $44.