Lake George Fishing in Polk County, Florida

• Overview

  Lake George falls in Polk County, part of Florida. The surroundings are warm bottomland. It measures about 50 acres, which is a comfortable size for bank fishing. It sits higher than most water we list in Florida. Lake Alfred at 1.7 miles is the nearest place to stop. It is 12 miles to Lakeland, the nearest city. There is no boundary nearby to worry about.

• Where to Fish on Lake George

  No figure exists for depth, so let the water show you. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Records collected within a few miles name black crappie, bluegill, bowfin and threadfin shad. That is what has been logged nearby, not a stocking list, so check local rules before you plan around any one species. Fish Lake George where the bottom changes rather than where it looks deep.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The seasonal spread runs 61°F to 82°F. Cold never becomes a factor on this one. The first and last hours carry the summer; the middle is slow. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. On Lake George that shapes the whole year. After a storm, the water clears from the edges inwards.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access status is simply unknown for this water. Mapping records no facilities at all near this water. Bluegill and other panfish take small jigs or worms under a float near any cover. Bank access can be seasonal on ground like this. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Failing this one, try Lake Cummings, 0.6 miles away. Check the current arrangement for Lake George.