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Top-Rated Afternoon Fishing | Hernando, FL Lakes

  • Published Date: July 17, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Hernando, FL, USA
  • $100 - $150 price range
  • Updated Date: October 3, 2025

Summary

Ready for an afternoon of freshwater fishing in Hernando, FL? This 3-hour trip takes you to prime spots for Largemouth Bass, Crappie, Bluegill, and Chain Pickerel. As the day winds down, the fish become more active, giving you great chances for topwater strikes. Your guide from Kennedy Fishing Company will show you the ropes, whether you're using live bait or trying out rubber bait techniques. It's perfect if you're looking to unwind after a busy day or hoping to land that trophy catch. With room for just one guest, you'll get personalized attention and tips to improve your skills. The lake setting offers a peaceful backdrop as you cast your line and wait for the telltale tug. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to fishing, this trip combines relaxation with the excitement of the catch. Don't let the afternoon slip away – get out on the water and see what's biting!
Top-Rated Afternoon Fishing | Hernando, FL Lakes

Afternoon Lake Action

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Angler enjoying water sports fishing in Florida

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Largemouth bass caught in FL

Fresh catches from Hernando lakes

Angler holding a Florida Bass fish in Hernando

Hernando fishing adventures start here

A person fishing in the water in FL

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Scenic view of the water in Hernando

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A scenic view of a body of water in Hernando

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Largemouth Bass, 15-inch fish caught while fishing in FL

Casting lines on Hernando’s lakes

A scenic view of Hernando

Explore Hernando’s fishing hotspots

Fishing photo of a 13-inch Florida Bass

Bass fishing action in Hernando, FL

Fishing in the waters of Hernando

Perfect day fishing Hernando waters

Angler enjoying water sports fishing in Florida

Hernando fishing trips for all ages

Largemouth bass caught in FL

Fresh catches from Hernando lakes

Angler holding a Florida Bass fish in Hernando

Hernando fishing adventures start here

A person fishing in the water in FL

Fishing thrills in Hernando, Florida

Scenic view of the water in Hernando

Top fishing guide in Hernando, FL

A scenic view of a body of water in Hernando

Early morning fishing in Hernando

Largemouth Bass, 15-inch fish caught while fishing in FL

Casting lines on Hernando’s lakes

A scenic view of Hernando

Explore Hernando’s fishing hotspots

Fishing photo of a 13-inch Florida Bass

Bass fishing action in Hernando, FL

Fishing in the waters of Hernando

Perfect day fishing Hernando waters

Angler enjoying water sports fishing in Florida

Hernando fishing trips for all ages

Largemouth bass caught in FL

Fresh catches from Hernando lakes

Angler holding a Florida Bass fish in Hernando

Hernando fishing adventures start here

A person fishing in the water in FL

Fishing thrills in Hernando, Florida

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Afternoon Bass Bonanza in Hernando

Hey there, anglers! Ready to turn your lazy afternoon into a fish-filled adventure? Kennedy Fishing Company's got just the ticket with our 3-hour private fishing trip right here in Hernando, FL. We're talking prime time on the water when the big ones start to bite and the sun's not beating down too hard. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long day or itching to land that monster bass you've been dreaming about, we've got you covered. So grab your hat and let's hit the lake for some serious afternoon action!

What's the Deal?

Picture this: You, me, and a boat full of top-notch gear, cruising the sweet spots of Hernando's freshwater honey holes. We're not messing around – we're after the good stuff. Largemouth bass that'll make your arms ache, sneaky crappie hiding in the structure, bluegill that'll keep you on your toes, and chain pickerel that'll give you a run for your money. It's just you and your guide (that's me!), so we can tailor this trip to exactly what you're after. Want to focus on bass? You got it. Hoping to fill a cooler with panfish? No problem. This is your show, and I'm here to make sure you have a blast.

Tricks of the Trade

Alright, let's talk shop. We're hitting the water when the fish are waking up from their midday siesta, so we've got to bring our A-game. We'll start with some topwater action – there's nothing like watching a big ol' bass explode on a buzzbait or popper. As the sun starts to dip, we'll switch it up with some live bait. Shiners are like candy for these fish, I'm telling you. And if the bite gets tough? That's when we break out the finesse gear. Wacky rigs, drop shots – whatever it takes to get 'em biting. Don't worry if you're new to this; I'll show you the ropes and have you casting like a pro in no time. And for you seasoned anglers, I've got some local tricks up my sleeve that'll give you a new edge on the water.

Fish Tales

Now, I could talk all day about the big ones we've caught, but let's hear it straight from the horse's mouth. Our customers have been having a ball out here:

What's Biting?

Let's break down what we're after, shall we? First up, the king of the lake – Largemouth Bass. These bruisers are what put Florida on the map for freshwater fishing. They love to hang out near structure, ambushing prey with those bucket mouths. In the afternoon, you'll find them cruising the shallows, ready to smash a well-placed lure. There's nothing quite like feeling that telltale thump and watching your line take off.

Next, we've got Crappie. Don't let their size fool you – these little guys are a blast to catch and even better to eat. They school up, so when you find one, you've usually found a bunch. Afternoons are prime time for crappie fishing, as they start to move up from deeper water to feed. Light tackle and a steady hand are key here.

Bluegill might not be the biggest fish in the lake, but pound for pound, they're some of the scrappiest fighters you'll encounter. These panfish are perfect for kids or anyone who wants non-stop action. They're curious little buggers and will hit just about anything that looks tasty. Plus, they make for some mighty fine eating if you're into a fish fry.

Last but not least, we've got the Chain Pickerel. These toothy critters are like mini-torpedoes, all speed and aggression. They love to hang out in weedy areas and will absolutely demolish a lure if you can get it in front of them. Be careful when you're unhooking these guys – those teeth are no joke!

Time to Wet a Line

Look, I could go on and on about how great the fishing is here in Hernando, but the truth is, you've got to experience it for yourself. This 3-hour afternoon trip is the perfect way to get a taste of what our lakes have to offer. Whether you're a die-hard angler or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, we've got you covered. The fish are biting, the weather's fine, and I've got a cooler full of cold drinks waiting for you. So what do you say? Ready to make some memories and maybe catch the fish of a lifetime? Don't let another day slip by – book your trip now and let's get out on the water. Trust me, your only regret will be not doing it sooner. See you on the lake!

Learn more about the species

Bluegill

Bluegill are those feisty little sunfish that make for a fun, relaxed day on the water. They typically run 6-8 inches, but can get up to a pound in the right spots. You'll find them hanging around docks, fallen trees, and weed beds in shallow water. Spring and early summer are prime bluegill seasons when they're spawning in the shallows. Anglers love targeting them because they're aggressive biters and put up a scrappy fight on light tackle. Plus, they're delicious when fried up fresh. To catch bluegill, try a small jig or worm under a bobber near structure. My local tip: use a piece of nightcrawler on a tiny hook, and you'll often catch two or three on one worm. Kids especially get a kick out of bluegill fishing - the action's usually fast and furious.

Bluegill

Chain Pickerel

Chain pickerel are feisty little predators, usually around 2 feet long and 3 pounds. They love hanging out in weedy, vegetated areas of lakes and slow-moving rivers. These opportunistic hunters will strike at just about anything that moves. Spring and fall are prime times to catch them, when the water's cooler. Anglers enjoy targeting pickerel for their aggressive hits and acrobatic fights - they'll leap clear out of the water! Their white, flaky meat is tasty too, though you'll need to watch out for the bones. To land one, try tossing a flashy spinnerbait or minnow-imitating lure near weed edges. Work it with quick jerks to trigger their predatory instincts. Once hooked, keep steady pressure to avoid losing them in the weeds. Wire leaders are a must with their razor-sharp teeth.

Chain Pickerel

Crappie

Crappie are those tasty panfish that school up in good numbers, usually 8-12 inches long. You'll find them hanging around brush piles, fallen trees, and dock pilings in lakes and slow rivers. They prefer cooler, clearer water than some other panfish. Spring is prime time when crappie move shallow to spawn, but fall can be excellent too as they school up to feed. Anglers love targeting crappie for their delicate, flaky fillets and the fun of catching a bunch. Light tackle and small jigs or minnows are the ticket. Here's a local tip: on sunny days, try fishing vertically right next to shady structure. Crappie often suspend in the shadows, and you can pick off several from one spot. Just be patient and work different depths until you find the school.

Crappie

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth bass are the rockstars of freshwater fishing, typically running 2-5 pounds but capable of topping 10. You'll find them lurking around submerged logs, weed edges, and drop-offs in lakes and slow rivers. They're ambush predators, so look for cover near deeper water. Spring and fall are prime seasons when bass move shallow to feed. Anglers love targeting largemouth for their explosive strikes and powerful fights. Nothing beats the thrill of a big bass blowing up on a topwater lure! To land one, try working a plastic worm slowly along the bottom near cover. My local trick: in the summer heat, fish deep weed edges early in the morning with a big, noisy topwater lure. The bigger bass can't resist it when it's cool out.

Largemouth Bass

About the 16' Mcray

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: 2025 Suzuki

Maximum Cruising Speed: 25

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 20

Grab your rod and reel for an afternoon of fishing fun in Hernando, FL! This 3-hour trip takes you to the best freshwater spots where Largemouth Bass, Crappie, Bluegill, and Chain Pickerel are waiting to bite. As the day winds down, the fish become more active, giving you prime opportunities for some exciting catches. Try your hand at topwater strikes, live bait fishing, and rubber bait techniques under the guidance of an experienced local angler. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long day or hoping to land that trophy fish, this trip offers the perfect mix of relaxation and action on the water. Don't let another afternoon slip away – book your fishing adventure now and make some lasting memories on the lakes of Hernando!
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Book your Guided Freshwater Fishing in Hernando, FL, today with Kennedy Fishing Company and experience an unforgettable adventure targeting Largemouth Bass, Crappie, and Chain Pickerel. Don’t miss out—reserve your Hernando Beach fishing charter now for a fun, family-friendly fishing trip with Captain Shaun Kennedy!

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