Fishing Rodman Reservoir
AKA: Lake Ocklawaha
Popular Fish Species Rodman Reservoir, FL
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Rodman Reservoir is considered by many to be one of the top ten bass fishing lakes in the country. Anglers are catching trophy bass, with largemouth bass well over 10 pounds showing up with some regularity. A history of careful fisheries management by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has helped to maintain a thriving bass fishery. Recent results by bass fishing tournament participants, attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 6 pounds being weighed in. In Rodman Reservoir, bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are feeding. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.
Black Crappie Fishing
Rodman Reservoir maintains a nice population of black crappie, which are fat and healthy this year. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Because crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover.
Channel Catfish Fishing
Rodman Reservoir has a dependable population of channel catfish, with the typical fish are about 2 pounds, and larger ones caught frequently. For weekend anglers, most any rod and reel will work for catching channel catfish, as long as the line is strong enough. For serious catfish enthusiasts, using the right equipment enhances success, especially when you hook one of the big boys. A medium action, to medium-heavy action rod is ideal, in the 6' to 7' range. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. The state record channel catfish is over 40 pounds, and Rodman Reservoir holds some pretty big ones. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area. In Spring channel catfish migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter, deeper structure is where to look. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, white catfish, black crappie, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish, spotted sunfish, warmouth and bowfin at Rodman Reservoir in Florida.
Rodman Reservoir Fishing Video
Considered a premium bass factory, Rodman Reservoir aka Lake Ocklawaha is a 13,000-acre reservoir in northeast Florida, at Orange Springs. Anglers can explore about 50 miles of shoreline in search of the many fish species living in Rodman Reservoir.
Rodman Reservoir, also known as Lake Ocklawaha, is a renowned fishing destination in Florida, offering a wealth of opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The lake is well-known for its diverse fish populations, making it a favorite among fishing enthusiasts.
Bass fishing is particularly popular on Rodman Reservoir. The lake is home to an abundance of largemouth bass, including trophy-sized specimens. The submerged structure, vegetation, and varying depths of the lake provide ideal habitat for bass, making it an excellent spot to cast your line. Anglers often employ various techniques such as flipping, pitching, or topwater lures to entice these powerful game fish.
Catfish are another sought-after species on Rodman Reservoir. Channel catfish and white catfish can be found in good numbers, offering anglers the chance to test their skills and land some sizable catches. Anglers typically use cut bait, stinkbaits, or live bait to target catfish, with the deeper areas of the reservoir being productive spots.
Black crappie are also present in Rodman Reservoir. These panfish are a favorite among anglers due to their delicious flavor and the thrill of reeling them in. Fishing for crappie is particularly enjoyable in the spring when they congregate near submerged structure and fallen trees. Small jigs, minnows, or crappie-specific baits are commonly used to entice these fish.
Rodman Reservoir is also home to a variety of sunfish species, including bluegill, redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish, and warmouth. These panfish provide great fishing opportunities, especially for beginners and young anglers. Anglers can use worms, crickets, or small artificial lures to target these species, which can be found near the lake's shorelines and structures.
Before embarking on a fishing trip to Rodman Reservoir, it's important to familiarize yourself with the fishing regulations and licensing requirements set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Respecting these regulations ensures the sustainability of the fishery and the preservation of the natural resources.
Overall, Rodman Reservoir in Florida is a prime destination for anglers seeking a wide range of fishing experiences. With its popular fish species such as bass, catfish, crappie, and various sunfish, as well as opportunities for boating and camping, Rodman Reservoir offers a memorable fishing adventure amidst the scenic beauty of Florida's landscape.
Big bass are the main draw here, and the fishing for these largemouths can often be exceptional. Also residing in the lake are catfish, crappie, bluegill, bowfin and several species of sunfish. Several boat launch serve the boating public for launching pleasure boats, sailboats, pontoons and fishing boats. There are quite a few sections of the shoreline open to fishing from the bank, especially if you mind a bit of walking. There is a canoe and kayak launch at Rodman Dam.
Primary fish species residing in Rodman Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Rodman Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Rodman Reservoir, allowing anglers to explore its expansive waters and reach different fishing spots. The reservoir provides opportunities for motorized boats, kayaks, and canoes, with boat ramps available for easy access. Boating on Rodman Reservoir offers not only a chance to fish in different areas but also the opportunity to soak in the picturesque surroundings.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Ferry Boat Landing Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off N 245th Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with limited, gravel parking.
Orange Springs Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off NE 245th Street Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Rodman Campground Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off Rodman Dam Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Rodman Reservoir
Rodman Reservoir Fishing Guides - bass
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Florida Fishing License.
Camping facilities are available near Rodman Reservoir, allowing anglers to extend their fishing trips and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Camping provides a great way to relax and enjoy the peacefulness of the reservoir, as well as maximize your fishing time.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Rodman Campground - 386 326-2846
Fort McCoy - Lake Oklawaha KOA Campground - 386 546-5500
Rodman Reservoir FL Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Rodman Reservoir
Kenwood Recreation Area
191 Kenwood Boat Ramp Rd
Interlachen, FL 32148
352 236-7143
Fishing lakes in each state.
081224
Rodman Reservoir in Florida.
FLORIDA
Information about fishing lakes in Florida
Rodman Reservoir offers rental boats and excellent fishing for largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, bowfin and sunfish fishing in northeast FL.
