Crappie

Crappie fishing in the Kissimmee area can be incredibly rewarding, especially on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. Lakes like Tohopekaliga (Toho), Cypress, and Hatchineha are prime locations. These fish tend to school around submerged structure, such as lily pads, brush piles, and bridge pilings. The best time to target crappie here is during the cooler months, from late fall through early spring, when they move into shallower waters to spawn. Minnows are a classic and effective bait, but small jigs in various colors can also be highly productive. A local tip: try fishing near the edges of hydrilla mats, as crappie often use these areas for cover and ambush points. The Lake Kissimmee State Park provides good access and boat ramps for exploring the lake. Be aware of seasonal water level fluctuations, which can impact crappie location and fishing success.