The water level is up, the fish are biting, and it's going to do nothing but get better.
That's the word from Jim Veal at Pana Vista Lodge on Lake Panasoffkee as we approach the productive fall fishing months.
"Right now," said Veal, "we're enjoying the best bluegill and shellcracker fishing in years. Lots of yearling bass around, too."
What's more, speckled perch (crappie) fishing in the nearby Withlacoochee River is coming on which gives rise to speculation that the specks will soon go on a tear in the lake and continue through the spring months.
Located in Sumter County, just west of I-75, Lake Panasoffkee supports three rustic but comfortable fish camps with Pana Vista Lodge, dating back to the 1890s, being the oldest.
In October, Veal and wife Eloise will have been here for 43 years.
It's certainly one of our favorite places because the pace is slow, the attitude is laid back, and the people are "real."
Those who'd enjoy seeing Florida the way it was have only to visit Pana Vista's old-timey main lodge which has been around for a century and retains its Cracker character.
"There was so much history connected with the lodge that we decided not to level it, but to preserve it," Veal reflected. Guests at Pana Vista can relax in one of 14 clean, comfortable efficiency units. Those with rec vehicles can stay in a 74-place spot in a woodsy RV park on the property.
Bass boats, canoes, peddle boats, and pontoon boats are available for rental, and folks trailering their own have a launching ramp available, plus plenty of covered boat slips to keep it in.
Cotee's new 6-inch floater worms rigged Carolina style or their 4-inch Glitter Worms will work fine for bass at Lake Panasoffkee, especially those with blue or black bodies with red tails, or those in the Tequila Sunrise hues. Also, live shiners, Rat-L-Traps, or crankbaits will produce.
Live worms, Beetlespins, or small Mepps Spinners will tempt bluegills, while wiggler worms, small spinners, or crickets will find an eager acceptance amongst shellcrackers.
Tiny jigs or Missouri minnows are effective when seeking specks.
There are several creeks flowing into the lake and there's an outlet to the Withlacoochee River. All are good spots for flyrodders.
Lake Panasoffkee itself is about seven miles long and covers some 5,000 acres with an average water depth of five to six feet. However, some of the deeper holes may dip to 10 feet or more.
Fortunately, hydrilla here hasn't spread as rapidly as in many other Florida lakes and doesn't present a major problem of restricting angling opportunities. Most of Panasoffkee's bottom consists of beneficial grass, sand, or shell.
With a little luck, we'll be able to shake loose for a few days in October to once again test these beautiful, clear waters and renew friendships with many of the lake's permanent residents.
Those who would like to experience a little bit of old Florida can contact Pana Vista Lodge by calling 904-793-2061.
Maybe, after an initial visit, you'll be like us and place Lake Panasoffkee on your permanent itinerary.
Copyright (c) 1996 Herb Allen. All rights reserved.
Home | Library | Fishing | Freshwater Fishing