We all know Florida is a top destination for anglers and vacationers alike. Anglers tend to head to the coast for some nice inshore or offshore fishing excursions, while vacationers head to Central Florida for the Happiest Place on Earth… Disney! But did you know: You can visit Orlando for theme parks AND fishing?! It’s true! Some of the world’s best Largemouth Bass fishing happens within twenty miles of Disney, Universal, and Seaworld theme parks.
Or, you can fish WHILE visiting Disney! Most people don’t realize that Disney offers fishing excursions to their guests for a reasonable price. You can fish from a boat or dock with as many as seven people in your group. Everything is included in the cost of your trip, or you can bring your own gear. You may not bring your own food, drinks, or coolers, but if you ask... your guide is happy to make a quick stop for a snack or drink before heading out again. Public fishing is no longer permitted on Disney property, so if you are heading out be sure to book an official Disney fishing guide (trips offered are either 2-hours or 4-hours). Disney Guides are very professional and experienced in fishing the many ponds and lakes on Disney property. Don’t worry if you’re not heading to Disney property to fish, there are several lakes near Disney that are perfect to cast your line.
Because Largemouth Bass are catch-and-release, all the Central Florida lakes have an abundant fishery for your charter. And Lake Tohopekaliga (or “Toho” as the locals call it), is no exception. Located just south of Orlando in Kissimmee, Lake Toho is part of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes and acts as a feeder to the Lake Okeechobee ecosystem. This popular lake often produces more bass over 10 pounds than any other lake in Central Florida. is just one of many private charters that guides Disney vacationers on Lake Toho. AJ’s group of guides boast the oldest continuously operated guide service in the Disney area. If you’re looking for REALLY great Orlando Largemouth Bass, Lake Toho is your go-to spot.
Captain Brent Kirkendall of actually lives on Lake Toho, and travels Central Florida to fish ALL the lakes in the area, including Lake Harris. This large lake is in Lake County, located NW of Orlando and is part of the Upper Ocklawaha River Basin, a sub-basin of the St. Johns River. It’s known locally as either the “Harris Chain of Lakes” or “Ocklawaha Chain of Lakes”. Captain Brent guides your Lake Harris fishing trip looking for Largemouth Bass and the occasional Crappie. Lake Harris is 8 miles long and 6 miles wide, and offers plenty of grass, pads, and reeds for Largemouth Bass to inhabit. It’s without a doubt a favorite of local anglers to hook up on Bass!
Windermere, Florida is considered the playground for professional athletes; once home to Tiger Woods and Shaquille O’Neal, just to name a few. With its abundant Bass fishery, it’s no wonder that the Butler Chain of Lakes is also considered a playground. For those visiting Disney, Windermere is by far the closest option for your Bass Fishing Disney adventure. And Captain Austin Keene of has grown up fishing these lakes. He’s the number one rated bass fishing charter in Orlando, and is great with expert anglers and first-time anglers alike.
We know that not all Central Florida tourists make their way to Disney World. There’s also Universal, SeaWorld, and Legoland theme parks to consider. Universal and SeaWorld are neighbors with Disney, so the above lakes will work for those vacationers as well. Legoland is a little bit farther away, located in Winter Haven (in between Tampa and Orlando off I-4). Those looking to lure in a lunker while visiting Legoland should check out Captain Shea Arnold’s . He fishes off Lake Eloise and other nearby Lakeland lakes for trophy size Largemouth Bass. Legoland visitors looking to also add a day of fishing to their schedule will certainly enjoy this adventure!
No matter which direction from Orlando you travel: south to Disney or west to Legoland, there’s a fishing trip waiting for you along your journey! You can plan to fish on Disney property, or visit any one of the nearby lakes for a great Largemouth Bass fishing trip. Not sure where to start? we have several professional guides in the Central Florida area that are ready to guide you to the lunkers. So pack your bags, grab your favorite shiner lures, and let's fish!