OCALA BASS FISHING GUIDES
TOP-RATED NORTH FLORIDA GUIDE SERVICE
OUR OCALA BASS FISHING GUIDES TEAM
North Central Florida is home to some of the most iconic bass waters in the state—and the guides who fish them know every bend, brush pile, and backwater bite. From the trophy-rich depths of Rodman Reservoir to the winding stretches of the St. Johns River and the bass-holding lakes of the Harris Chain, these are the waters where big bass stories are born.
Our local guides aren’t just along for the ride—they’ve spent years learning what makes these lakes tick. Whether it’s a misty morning on Lake Kerr or picking apart pads on Orange Lake, they’ll put you where the fish are and share the kind of insight only a true local can offer. If you’re ready to fish Florida the way it was meant to be—wild, scenic, and full of life—North Florida is calling.
Ready to explore fishing charters in North Central Florida? Click the button below to view available dates, pricing, and reserve your trip with one of Florida’s premier Ocala bass fishing guides!
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Our Ocala Florida Fishing Guides
Captain Brad Leifermann
Captain Brad Leifermann is your ticket to the North Florida bass fishing, one the top lakes to fish. A seasoned pro with roots in Minnesota’s competitive fishing scene, Capt. Brad has been chasing bass since the 1980s and brings a lifetime of experience to every trip. Now based in Eustis, he proudly calls the Harris Chain of Lakes his home waters—and knows them like the back of his hand.
Capt. Brad’s resume is impressive: three-time All-American qualifier, two-time back-to-back US Invitational winner, and countless hours on the water honing his craft. But what really sets him apart is his down-to-earth style and passion for teaching. Whether you’re a first-timer learning how to cast or a seasoned angler chasing your next trophy, Brad’s patient, easygoing approach makes every trip enjoyable and productive.
You’ll be fishing in comfort and style aboard his fully equipped 2022 Ranger bass boat, powered by a 250hp Mercury and outfitted with the latest technology—Minn Kota Ultrex trolling motor, Lowrance Live 16” and 12” electronics, and top-tier rods and tackle. Every detail is dialed in to give you an edge on the water.
Bass Boat (1-4ppl)
Use the booking buttons below to book Captain Brad, at the fishing lake you would like to explore.
Captain Ken Walker
If you’re chasing that once-in-a-lifetime trophy bass, look no further than Captain Ken Walker, one of North Florida’s most seasoned and dependable bass fishing guides. With over 20 years of experience fishing the waters around Rodman Reservoir, Capt. Ken brings a deep, time-earned knowledge of this legendary fishery—and a passion for putting his clients on big fish.
He’s a true student of the game, dialed in on seasonal patterns, spawning behavior, and the subtle shifts that make the difference between a good day and a great one. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or it’s your first cast, Ken loves helping people connect with the thrill of landing a monster largemouth.
Your adventure begins aboard his custom-rigged 21’ Mako, designed for navigating the shallow, stump-filled waters of Rodman with ease. Outfitted with premium gear—including a wireless trolling motor, top-notch fishfinder, and both spinning and baitcasting setups—the boat is ready to accommodate up to four anglers without the usual line-crossing chaos. From high-quality tackle to local know-how, everything is in place to give you the best possible shot at a bass of a lifetime.
21′ Mako Flats Boat (1-4ppl)
Use the booking buttons below to book Captain Ken, at the fishing lake you would like to explore.
Captain Scott England
For Captain Scott England, guiding isn’t just a job—it’s a passion born from a lifetime spent on the water. Originally from West Virginia, Capt. Scott moved to North Florida at just 10 years old and never looked back. It didn’t take long for him to fall in love with the wild beauty and incredible bass fishing of Rodman Reservoir and the Ocklawaha River—places he now calls home both in spirit and in location.
After retiring and earning his captain’s license, Scott decided it was time to share his deep love for the outdoors and years of local fishing experience with others. Living just a mile from the Rodman boat ramp, he’s always close to the action—and keeps his live well fully stocked with fresh shiners to give his guests the best shot at landing a trophy bass.
If you’re looking for a laid-back, rewarding day on one of Florida’s most scenic and productive bass fisheries, Captain Scott England is ready to welcome you aboard—and show you just why Rodman Reservoir keeps anglers coming back year after year.
21′ Center Console (1-4ppl)
Use the booking buttons below to book Captain Scott, at the fishing lake you would like to explore.
Captain Robert Stumpe
With over 40 years of fishing experience and more than two decades as a full-time professional guide, Captain Robert Stumpe brings unmatched knowledge, passion, and local insight to every trip. Born and raised in Palatka, Florida, Capt. Robert has spent his life exploring the waters of Rodman Reservoir, the St. Johns River, Santa Fe Lake, and the Harris Chain of Lakes—some of the most productive bass fisheries in North Florida.
His guiding career was born from a simple goal: to help others experience the same joy and excitement he’s found on the water for decades. Whether you’re casting for the first time or chasing your next personal best, Capt. Robert creates a welcoming, low-pressure environment where every angler can thrive.
You’ll be fishing from his top-of-the-line 21’ Phoenix bass boat, powered by a 250HP Mercury and fully equipped with the latest technology—high-end electronics, quality spinning and baitcasting setups, and a full arsenal of tournament-grade tackle.
Bass Boat (1-4ppl)
Use the booking button below to book Captain Robert, at the fishing lake you would like to explore.
Captain Peter "T" Thiliveros
With over $2 million in tournament winnings and a reputation as one of the most accomplished bass anglers in the country, Captain Peter “T” Thliveros brings serious credibility—and an even greater passion—to every day on the water. Based in St. Augustine, Florida, Capt. Peter splits his time between guiding on his home waters and competing alongside his son on the B.A.S.S. tournament trail, where he’s a well-known name among the sport’s elite.
Despite his professional success, Capt. Peter is incredibly down-to-earth and enjoys nothing more than sharing his knowledge with others. Anglers from across the country book trips with him not just to catch fish, but to learn the craft from one of the best.
While he’s skilled in both freshwater and saltwater fishing—also guiding for redfish and snook out of St. Augustine—his heart belongs to the legendary Rodman Reservoir, where he grew up fishing and still finds his greatest joy.
You’ll fish in comfort aboard his high-performance 22’ Ranger bass boat, or his saltwater-ready 24’ Ranger Bay boat powered by a 250HP Mercury.
Bass Boat (1-4ppl)
Use the booking buttons below to book Captain Peter ‘T”, at the fishing lake you would like to explore.
MORE ABOUT OCALA BASS FISHING GUIDES & FISHING CHARTERS
When it comes to catching trophy bass in Florida, few places offer the diversity, beauty, and sheer excitement of Ocala. Surrounded by some of the most productive freshwater fisheries in the state—including Rodman Reservoir, the Harris Chain of Lakes, and the St. Johns River—Ocala is a top destination for anglers of all skill levels. And the best way to make the most of your time on the water? Booking a trip with one of our experienced Ocala bass fishing guides.
Why Hire an Ocala Bass Fishing Guide?
Whether you’re a first-time angler or a seasoned bass hunter, hiring a local guide makes all the difference. Ocala’s fisheries are vast and varied, with complex structures, seasonal shifts, and hidden honey holes that only time on the water can reveal. A professional guide brings insider knowledge, top-tier gear, and a personalized approach to every trip, giving you the best chance to land that bucket-mouth bass you’ve been dreaming of.
Our guides aren’t just captains—they’re lifelong fishermen who live and breathe the sport. From teaching casting techniques to dialing in lure selection based on weather and water conditions, they make your time on the water both productive and unforgettable.
Legendary Lakes and Rivers at Your Fingertips
One of the best parts of fishing in Ocala is the access to such a rich variety of waterways. Here’s a look at the key hotspots our Ocala bass fishing guides call home:
Rodman Reservoir: Known nationwide for producing true trophy bass, Rodman is a bucket-list destination. With its maze of submerged timber, hydrilla beds, and deep channels, it takes a skilled guide to unlock this lake’s full potential. If you want to catch a double-digit largemouth, Rodman is the place.
St. Johns River: This scenic and historic river system winds its way through the heart of North Florida, offering fantastic bass fishing along with opportunities to catch bluegill, crappie, and even catfish. Our guides know how to navigate the river’s currents and backwater areas to find where the big bass are biting.
Harris Chain of Lakes: Located near Eustis and Mount Dora, the Harris Chain is a top-rated fishery made up of interconnected lakes like Lake Harris, Little Lake Harris, Lake Eustis, and Lake Dora. It’s ideal for year-round bass action, especially during the spring spawn and cooler months.
Lake Kerr, Orange Lake & Beyond: North Central Florida is dotted with clear, spring-fed lakes and quiet backwaters that often get overlooked. These lakes are perfect for a more laid-back trip where the scenery is just as rewarding as the fishing. And yes—there are still giants swimming in these hidden gems!
What Species Can You Catch in North Florida?
While largemouth bass are the is the predominant species in North Florida, each destination and fishing lake also supports a rich variety of other freshwater species, making it the perfect place for the ultimate adventure. Some of the most common catches include:
Largemouth Bass – The #1 target, with exceptional trophy potential.
Black Crappie (Speckled Perch) – A seasonal favorite, especially popular in winter and early spring.
Bluegill and Shellcracker (Redear Sunfish) – Great for family trips and light tackle fun.
Our guide service can tailor trips for bass or target other species depending on the season and your preferences.
What to Expect on a Guided Bass Fishing Trip in Ocala
When you book a trip with an Ocala bass fishing guide, everything is taken care of. You’ll fish from a high-end bass boat equipped with modern electronics, GPS, and all the latest rods, reels, and tackle. Many guides use both live bait (like wild shiners) and artificial lures, depending on the season and your preferences.
We offer 4, 6, and 8-hour fishing charters. Our guides will tailor the experience based on your goals—whether you’re after a wall-hanger trophy or just want to catch numbers and have fun. Families, kids, solo anglers, and tournament-minded fishermen are all welcome.
You’ll also learn a lot along the way. Many guests walk away from their trip with new techniques, a better understanding of bass behavior, and a deep appreciation for Florida’s wild freshwater fisheries.
Book Your Ocala Bass Fishing Adventure Today
Whether you’re visiting from out of state, live in The Villages or a Florida local ready to explore new waters, Ocala bass fishing guides are here to help you make the most of your time on the water. These guided trips offer more than just a chance to catch fish—they’re about making memories, learning from the best, and experiencing the wild heart of Florida bass country.
Ready to plan your trip? Reach out today and let us connect you with the perfect guide for your fishing goals. We offer the best bass fishing trips from Rodman to the Harris Chain and everywhere in between!
