ORANGE LAKE

[SWAMPFOX]

Any reports on the water level at Orange Lake these days? Seems like the water level in the other lakes in that area (Lochloosa/Newnans/Santa Fe) is decent but I can't find any info on Orange.

Thanks.

[pandaxmx]

Are you talking about orange lake at Green swamp? if so I was there a week ago and it seemed ok I saw a 12 foot gator sunning himself and a couple in the water

[Bossman]

He's talking Gainesville Orange lake! It is still dry.

[ArcheoGator]

From FWC:

Current Forecast:
Water levels have increased slightly on Orange Lake thanks to the afternoon thunderstorms that occurred during the summer months. However, FWC now faces a complicated vegetation problem that affects fishing opportunities and reliable access to the lake. The Heagy-Burry boat ramp has been the most dependable access point to the lake during low lake levels where trails through the vegetation are cut and maintained. But as lake levels rise, vegetation that was anchored to the bottom of the lake during low lake levels becomes buoyant and floats to the surface that blocks access at the ramp and passage through the trails. Anglers should be mindful of shifting floating islands while on the lake, particularly during windy days. A management strategy to restore access at the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Boat Ramp is underway to provide another entry option to the lake. Recent fish surveys revealed depressed fish populations, particularly in largemouth bass. But surviving populations of black crappie and bream appear abundant and ready to take your bait. More thorough surveys will be conducted to determine the management actions needed in Orange Lake once normal water levels return.