BOATING AND FISHING ON LAKE TOHO
There's much more to Central Florida than theme parks. Enjoy the outdoors at Lake Toho near Kissimmee.
Heading for Lake Tohopekaliga in Florida? Also called Lake Toho, this fishing hot spot is known for the trophy-size bass lurking in its waters. Book a charter boat, or bring your own and try your luck. Prefer nature watching? Get out on an airboat and skim across Lake Toho's reed-covered surface. If you've brought your own vessel, launch it from Big Toho Marina, next to Kissimmee Lakefront Park. Whether by boat or on shore, you’re sure to enjoy the natural scenery that makes up Lake Toho. After a day at the lake, find restaurants and things to do in our Kissimmee travel guide.
About Lake Toho—What's the Hype?
Lake Tohopekaliga has always been a local favorite for largemouth bass. In 2001, the not-so-secret fishing hole got some major press after hosting the Bassmaster Top 150 Tournament at the Big Toho Marina. Dean Rojas broke the one-day record by pulling in five fish that totaled over 45 pounds. He then broke the four-day record with 20 bass weighing a total of more than 108 pounds. Since then, anglers have been heading to Florida, eager to fish on this rather shallow, heavily vegetated, 18,800-acre lake.
Don't Forget Your Fishing License
Fishing on Lake Toho is a great family adventure. Remember that you'll need a freshwater fishing license for anyone in your group who is at least 16 years old. Annual, 3-day and 7-day nonresident licenses are available. If you live in Florida, you'll need a regular freshwater license. It's best to get one online from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission before you arrive. If you book with a charter boat or fishing guide, the company will have information on licenses, fish limits and seasons.
Catching the Big One—Lake Toho Fishing Charters
Fishing charters on Lake Toho usually offer half-day and full-day trips. You are chartering the boat, so the fee is the same whether you have one person fishing or several. Depending on the size of the boat, you could have up to six anglers on board. You'll go out rain or shine, unless the captain decides it's unsafe. Bait and tackle is supplied, as is ice for caught fish. Some boats have a mate to help clean the fish, others bring your catch back to the dock intact. Food and drink may or may not be included. If you do bring your own snacks, don't bring bananas; some boat owners believe they bring bad luck. Don't forget the sunscreen, sunglasses and your camera.
Feel the Need for Speed—Lake Toho Airboats
While Lake Toho isn't a true swamp, it is an entry into the Everglades and shares much the same plant and animal life. The vegetation on parts of the lake gives the bass plenty of places to hide and grow, but isn't so great for propellers. An airboat's engine and propellers sit on the back of the boat, above the waterline. The boat also has a shallow, flat bottom to reduce drag. You'll find yourself zipping along the surface, getting a tad wet in the process. A guide will sometimes maneuver close to heavily vegetated areas, then turn the motor off and drift. Get up close to birds, small mammals and even alligators. Airboats are noisy, so use the headsets on board to listen to the tour guide and talk to fellow passengers.
Ready to enjoy all Lake Toho has to offer? Find hotels in Kissimmee.