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Area Rivers Running Low

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By MARK COOK

Published: October 26, 2008

With area rivers hurting for water, fishermen who are willing to hike a little can score excellent catches.

The Alafia River in the Keysville area is as low as I've ever seen in October. Last week I stopped by the canoe launch near Alderman's Ford and the river was practically dry.

A small trickle was passing by and some kayakers were toting their vessels along the bank looking for enough water to launch. When the water is this low, the fish will settle into any type of depth change, particularly around river bends near stumps where the current flow causes deeper washouts and holes.

A little walking can yield big results. Alderman's Ford, southeast of Brandon, and Lithia Springs are two places that have access to the river without worrying about trespassing on private property.

With the water level low, it is easy to spot the dark, deeper holes. I like to use an ultra-light spinning outfit rigged with 6-8 pound test line. Sometimes small beetle-spins will work, although they tend to find the stumps and roots that frequent the bottom. Wiggler worms are a can't-miss bait and all the game fish in the river find them hard to resist.

On area lakes, bass fishing has been solid if not spectacular. Kissimmee has been producing lots of fish in the 2-4-pound range, with a few pushing 8 pounds. Speck season on Kissimmee is looking excellent, as anglers have been getting their limits at daybreak or using lights at night.

Grassy and Bird Island are two of the most fished areas for good reason as coolers are being filled. With this week's cool front, speck fishing will only improve.

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