ORLANDO FLORIDA TROPHY BASS FISHING WITH PRO GUIDE STEVE BOYD

If you were to ask me where the top destination for bass fishing in Florida is I would have to consider the Harris Chain of Lakes pretty high on my list. The Harris Chain of Lakes is a waterway system that leads north to the Atlantic Ocean, through the Ocklawaha River and the St. John's River.  It's made up of Lake Harris, Little Lake Harris, Lake Dora, Lake Eustis, Lake Griffin and Lake Beauclair, and includes links by the Dora Canal, the Dead River and Haines Creek.

A regular stop for the Bassmaster tour in the early 70's and 80's the Harris chain was a favorite among touring pros because of it's ability to produce trophy bass. The Harris chain peaked in the late 80's when Submergent vegetation in the form of Hydrilla could be found throughout the chain. At the time the Harris chain was considered to be the number 1 trophy bass fishing destination. Aggressive weed control and stable water levels hurt the chain for about 10 years but the last 7 years have been excellent as can be seen from the past two Bassmaster tournaments.Trophy bass were abound as the Pros caught multiple bass in the 11 lb range.

Local tournaments are proving just how well the chain is doing with top weights for 5 bass limits being in the 17 - 19lb range. Techniques for the Harris Chain of Lakes can range from flipping visible shoreline vegetation to carolina rigging main lake ledges. Rattle traps, crankbaits, texas rigged worms and topwater buzzbaits are also effective techniques.

Although live bait can be used on this chain I prefer using arificial lures. Techniques for using live bait are typically trolling shiners through the various canals that are on the chain. But because of the numerous ledges, brushpiles and shoreline vegetation the use of artificial lures can be much more rewarding as well as challenging.

Only a short drive from Disney World The Harris Chain of Lakes is definitely worth making part of your Florida fishing vacation.