Fishing at Lake Simmons, Monroe County, Florida

• Overview

  Monroe County in Florida is where Lake Simmons sits. The surface lies 3 feet up. Surface area is around 65 acres, which gives you real water without needing a boat. About 1.1 miles of bank, so nothing stays unexplored for long. Most waters listed here for Monroe County are larger. North Key Largo is the closest town at 5.9 miles. Miami is the closest city, 42 miles away. It sits well inside the county, so one set of rules covers it.

• Where to Fish on Lake Simmons

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. Being tidal, the water moves twice a day, and the fishing moves with it. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. Public wildlife records from this area list silver mullet, pinfish and horse-eye jack. That is what has been logged nearby, not a stocking list, so check local rules before you plan around any one species. Treat Lake Simmons as a water to read rather than to cover.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-term averages put August at about 83°F and January near 68°F. Warm water year-round keeps fish moving through every month. Late winter and spring fish steadiest here. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. The season on Lake Simmons rarely departs from it.

• Tackle & Baits

  The rules here are undocumented as far as public sources go. It formed naturally, so levels move with rainfall rather than with a gate. No made access appears within a short radius, so plan to park on a verge and walk. One rod, a handful of hooks and floats, and a few small lures are enough for this water. Rules differ from one water to the next round here. Some water is controlled locally without a sign saying so. The nearest alternative is Lake Surprise, 1.1 miles out. Confirm access to Lake Simmons locally before you travel.