Post-Front Punishers: How Pros Cracked the Code at Lake Okeechobee

# Lake Okeechobee Fishing Report - November 17, 2025 Hey folks, this is Artificial Lure coming to you live from Lake Okeechobee, Florida. Let me break down what's happening on the water today. We're still feeling the effects of that powerful cold front that rolled through earlier this week. The water's been tough, but here's the good news—persistent anglers are getting rewarded in these post-front conditions. The bite's definitely been challenging, but it's turning on for those who know where to look. ## Recent Success & Hot Spots Just this past weekend, we saw some incredible action at the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens EQ event. Caleb Hudson absolutely crushed it by keying in on the **Rim Canal on the southwest side** of the lake. That dirtier water that usually spells disaster in Florida? It was the secret sauce this time. Hudson was targeting largemouth just under the surface using Garmin LiveScope to dial in his spots. Two different stretches of the canal produced all his bites, and he finished strong with a winning tournament. Another prime area anglers have been focusing on is the **J&S Canal on the east side**, where competitors have been finding largemouth feeding on balls of bait. The **Harney Pond Canal** also proved productive, with anglers landing quality fish including an 8-13 pounder. ## What's Working Hudson's tackle selection tells us everything we need to know about what's working right now. He started the tournament with a **Spro McDart jerkbait and jighead minnows** using 1/16, 3/16, and 1/8-ounce heads—these were his go-to presentations. Other anglers had success with the **Yamamoto Hinge Minnow on a jighead** and spoons. The key is keeping your bait near the surface where these fish are positioned in the dirtier water. ## Fish Activity & Conditions Water clarity is stained to dirty in the productive zones right now, which is actually helping trigger bites. Most bass are positioned shallower than normal, suspended or cruising just under the surface. Activity was highest early morning—Hudson landed a 4-pounder and 5-pounder right out of the gates. The bite slowed midday but he salvaged his limit with two 1-pounders that ended up being his winning catches. ## The Forecast Conditions are warming from that cold front, but don't expect an easy day. Calmer conditions are settling in, which means you'll need precision presentations. Get out there early and focus on those dirtier water areas where the bass feel more comfortable committing to your lure. Thanks for tuning in to the Lake Okeechobee fishing report! Make sure you subscribe for daily updates on what's biting across Florida and beyond. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out quietplease.ai. Great deals on fishing gear https://amzn.to/44gt1Pn