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Caught a trophy crappie Fishing in Lake Toho
Crappie Fishing in Lake Toho
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The Pomoxis Nigromaculatus belongs to the order Perciformes and family Centrarchidae. It typically measures between 4 and 19 inches in length, with a weight range up to 5 lbs. - Habitat includes rivers and lakes throughout their range. - Crappies are game fish and the largest members of the Centrarchidae family. - Present in nature as Black Crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) and White Crappie (Pomoxis annularus).
Guided Fishing Trip by Captain Brandon Sizemore in December
Meet your Captain Brandon Sizemore
- Experience the Thrill of Fishing in Port Canaveral
Summary
Captain Brandon Sizemore of Tight Line Guides on Thursday October offers a 4-hour morning fishing charter targeting crappie and largemouth bass on Lake Tohopekaliga. This family-friendly guided fishing trip accommodates up to 6 guests with all gear included, perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Using jigging, casting, and trolling techniques, you'll work the lake's excellent structure and cover where crappie love to hold. The early morning departure at 7:00 AM provides ideal conditions for freshwater fishing, with local knowledge ensuring you're positioned on the best spots. Whether it's your first cast or you're an experienced angler, this Lake Toho fishing adventure delivers action-packed memories for the whole family. Bring your Florida fishing license, snacks, and drinks for a safe, enjoyable morning on the water with one of the area's most trusted local guides.
Fishing Charter with Captain Brandon Sizemore – Rates & Booking
Captain Brandon Sizemore of Tight Line Guides on Thursday October runs this 4-hour morning fishing charter departing at 7:00 AM. The trip accommodates up to 6 guests with all fishing gear included, targeting crappie and largemouth bass on Lake Tohopekaliga. Rates include tackle, bait, and expert guidance from a licensed local captain with extensive knowledge of the lake's best fishing spots. Guests need to bring a valid Florida fishing license, snacks, and drinks. Book online or call to secure your preferred date and experience some of the finest freshwater fishing in Central Florida.
Highlights of Family-Friendly Half Day Crappie And Bass Fishing Charter In Lake Tohopekaliga
This charter focuses on jigging, casting, and trolling techniques to maximize your success on Lake Tohopekaliga's productive waters. The lake's excellent structure and cover provide ideal habitat for crappie, while the shallow areas offer great opportunities for bass fishing. Captain Brandon's local expertise ensures you'll fish the most productive spots during prime morning hours when fish are most active.
Perfect for families and anglers of all experience levels, this trip combines education with excitement. Kids get their first taste of freshwater fishing while experienced anglers can refine their techniques. The 4-hour duration provides ample time to work different areas of the lake and try various approaches without overwhelming younger participants.
Local Species Insights: Crappie
Crappie thrive in Lake Tohopekaliga's diverse structure, holding around submerged timber, brush piles, and drop-offs throughout the year. These panfish are most active during early morning hours, making the 7:00 AM departure ideal for consistent action. In October, crappie begin their fall feeding patterns, positioning near deeper structure as water temperatures start to cool. Captain Brandon's jigging techniques target these fish effectively, using light tackle that makes every catch exciting for anglers of all ages.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
The boat comfortably accommodates up to 6 guests with all necessary fishing equipment provided, including rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Captain Brandon handles navigation and fish-finding while teaching proper techniques for jigging, casting, and trolling. Safety equipment is onboard and the captain maintains all required licenses and insurance. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early for a brief safety orientation and equipment overview before heading out on Lake Tohopekaliga's productive waters.
Fishing in Lake Toho: Crappie
Crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus), commonly known as black crappie or "specks," belong to the order Perciformes and family Centrarchidae. These popular game fish are among the largest members of the sunfish family, typically measuring 4-19 inches and weighing up to 5 pounds. In Lake Toho waters this October, crappie provide excellent fishing opportunities for anglers targeting structure and cover areas.
Crappie Overview
Crappie are highly sought-after panfish known for their excellent table fare and fighting ability on light tackle. Two main species exist: black crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) and white crappie (Pomoxis annularus). Black crappie display irregular dark spots across their silvery bodies, earning the nickname "specks," while white crappie show distinct vertical bars along their sides.
Crappie Habitat and Distribution
These fish thrive in lakes, rivers, and reservoirs with adequate structure such as submerged timber, brush piles, and vegetation. Lake Tohopekaliga provides ideal crappie habitat with its diverse structure and varying depths. They prefer areas with moderate current and temperatures between 65-75°F, making Central Florida lakes perfect year-round destinations.
Crappie Size and Weight
Most crappie caught range from 8-12 inches, with larger specimens reaching 15-19 inches. Trophy fish can weigh 3-5 pounds, though typical catches range from 0.5-2 pounds. Lake Toho produces quality crappie throughout the year, with fall months offering excellent opportunities for consistent action.
Crappie Diet and Behavior
Crappie feed primarily on small fish, insects, and crustaceans. They're most active during dawn and dusk, making early morning trips highly productive. These fish school together, so finding one often means finding many. They suspend at various depths depending on season, water temperature, and food availability.
Crappie Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in spring when water temperatures reach 60-65°F. Males build nests in shallow areas with sandy or gravel bottoms, often near protective cover. During this period, crappie become more aggressive and easier to catch, though many anglers practice catch-and-release to protect spawning fish.
Crappie Fishing Techniques
Jigging with small jigs tipped with minnows or soft plastics proves most effective. Casting to visible structure and trolling with multiple lines covers water efficiently. Light spinning tackle enhances the fight and prevents breaking light mouths. In October, anglers around St. Cloud find success targeting deeper structure as fish begin their fall transition patterns.
Crappie Is It Good to Eat?
Crappie rank among the best-tasting freshwater fish, with sweet, flaky white meat and mild flavor. They're excellent fried, baked, or grilled, and provide high-quality protein with low mercury levels. Many consider crappie superior to bass for table fare, making them popular targets for family fishing trips.
Crappie Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for crappie?
A: Small jigs tipped with minnows, tube jigs, and soft plastic grubs work best. Live minnows suspended under bobbers are also highly effective.
Q: Where can I find crappie near St. Cloud?
A: Lake Tohopekaliga offers excellent crappie fishing around submerged timber, brush piles, and drop-offs. Focus on areas with structure in 8-15 feet of water.
Q: Is crappie good to eat?
A: Yes, crappie are considered among the best-tasting freshwater fish with sweet, flaky white meat that's perfect for frying or baking.
Q: When is the best time to catch crappie?
A: Early morning and late evening provide the best action. Fall months like October offer consistent fishing as crappie feed heavily before winter.
