Fishing Orlando’s Fab 5

Fishing the Fab 5 Lakes in Orlando, “the City Beautiful” is a must do for any angler. These five urban lakes are known for big bass, easy access and year-round action— all within 15 minutes of downtown Orlando.

What Are the “Fab 5 “ Lakes?

1. Clear Lake

2. Lake Ivanhoe

3. Lake Underhill

4. Turkey Lake

5. Lake Jessamine

Each lake offers unique structure, water clarity, and seasonal patterns— but all five consistently produce 2-5 lb largemouth bass, with double digit fish caught every year.

1. Clear Lake (near downtown Orlando)

   Why its Great:

   - Urban lake with surprisingly clear water

   - Tons of hydrilla and offshore grass beds

   - Good for beginners using artificial baits

   Best Fall Baits:

   - Frog up shallow, poppers (morning)

   - Chatterbait green pumpkin/spinnerbait

   - Texas-rigged creature baits

2. Lake Ivanhoe (North DT Orlando)

   Why It’s Great:

   - Clear water, known for sight fishing

   - Close to bars and restaurants (great for clients)

   - Lots of Lilly Pads and grass lines

   Best Fall Baits:

   - Chatterbait/Spinnerbait (green pumpkin/white

   - Flukes/Jerkbaits

   - Texas-Rigged creature baits/ jigs

3. Lake Underhill (East Orlando/408 Bridge)

   Why It’s Great:

   - Deep water grass ledges near bridge

   - Schooling bass in Fall

   - Underrated crappie fishery

   Best Fall Baits:

   - Lipless Crankbaits (chrome)

   - Texas-Rigged Ribbon Tail Worm (down size)

   - Frog up shallow (morning/evening)

4. Turkey Lake (No public boat ramp)

   - great shoreline fishery, or you can rent a boat there I believe.

   Best Fall Baits:

   - Frog (morning)

   - Carolina Rig on deeper edges

   - Live Shiners (super effective)

5. Lake Jessamine (South Orange Ave)

   Why It’s Great:

   - Classic Florida Lake- pads, docks, deep ledges

   - Known for Giant Bass

   - Less pressures than other lakes

   Best Fall Baits:

   - Black/Blue Flippin Jig

   - White/Silver Spinnerbait

   - June bug trick worm (Texas rig)