Reeling In The Magic

Add Big Bass to Your Next Disney Adventure.

- Matt Arnholt

AS THE MOST VISITED TOURIST DESTINATION in the U.S., Orlando offers a seemingly endless list of activities to keep the entire family entertained. This year, the Sunshine State will undoubtedly welcome millions of visitors, and many of them are likely making the trip for the world-famous attractions at Walt Disney World. But unbeknownst to most, an epic day of bass fishing is literally within a stone’s throw of the iconic theme parks.

Thanks to efforts dating back to the 1960's, Walt Disney World has flown under the radar as one of the most productive large mouth bass fishing destinations in the entire state. And while hauling in lunkers in the shadow of Cinderella’s castle may sound absurd to some, there’s no denying that the surrounding waters are teeming with fish.

There are several key factors that contribute to the continued success of this magical fishery. First of all, the numerous resorts within Disney strive to maintain a healthy habitat and there is a strict catch-and-release policy in place. Fish also receive significantly less pressure here than they do throughout other nearby angling destinations, since anglers can only fish Walt Disney World’s lakes by booking a trip with a resort guide.

This improbable success story began when the Magic Kingdom theme park was constructed and nearly 70,000 large mouth bass fingerlings were released into the surrounding lakes. The lakes remained untouched by anglers until 1977, giving the fish ample time to grow and spawn in a natural and healthy habitat. Even after the park began offering fishing trips, conservation was at the forefront and the goal was to above all ensure a thriving ecosystem.