Rodman Reservoir Fishing

“The Barge Canal and river channel have water depths up to 30 feet deep.”

“The pool section from Orange Springs to Kirkpatrick Dam, including the river channel and the Cross Florida Barge Canal, consists of floating and submersed vegetation, dead standing timber and submersed and partially submersed trees and stumps.”

“It is located south of Palatka off of Hwy 19.”

“Drawdowns are conducted every three to four years on the reservoir for aquatic plant control and fish and wildlife habitat enhancement.”

“The transition section from Paynes Landing to Orange Springs consists of flooded standing timber and areas of floating vegetation.”

“The reservoir from its headwaters at Eureka Dam to Paynes Landing consists of flooded woodlands.”

“The reservoir was created in 1968 when an earthen dam was built across the Ocklawaha River.”

“Bass fishing should remain productive during the winter, with larger Florida bass often associated with deeper structure near the river channel and Cross Florida Barge Canal, particularly in the Kenwood to Kirkpatrick Dam area.”

“Because crappie may suspend above the bottom, anglers should use electronics to determine the depth of the fish and adjust bait depth accordingly.”

“Live golden shiners remain a proven option for trophy bass and can be drifted or slow-trolled through stump fields or fished beneath overhanging vegetation in the Orange Springs area.”

“Winter catfish activity can be slower than during warmer months, but productive areas can continue to produce fish when bait is kept close to the bottom.”