Rodman Reservoir Drawdown Schedule 2021

As one of the top ten best bass lakes in the country, Rodman Reservoir is a must-visit destination for anglers. Located south of Palatka, Florida, off Hwy 19 and connected to St Johns River, this premier largemouth bass fishery covers an impressive 9,500 acres and stretches 15 miles long.

The reservoir's unique habitat, comprising eel grass, hydrilla, lily pads, and 'dollar weeds' and water hyacinths, provides an ideal environment for bass to thrive. Anglers can expect to catch trophy bass, redbreast sunfish, channel catfish, and numerous other species of fish.

Despite its popularity, Rodman Reservoir faces a significant issue: the ongoing debate over dam removal. Conservationists argue that restoring the river to its natural state would require a substantial investment of time and money, which may not be feasible in the current political climate.

The Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.) has taken a resolute stance against dam removal, citing concerns about the impact on the reservoir's habitat and fish population. According to Allen Martin, FWC Regional Freshwater Fisheries Administrator for the North Central Region, Rodman Reservoir benefits from active management by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), which helps maintain its reputation as one of the best bass fisheries in the state.

Anglers can count on catching plenty of big fish at Rodman Reservoir. The reservoir's abundant habitat and rich forage base of shad, bluegill, crappie, and lake chub suckers support a healthy population of largemouth bass. In fact, Rodman Reservoir has long been the statewide leader in Trophy Catch approvals.

The FWC's Trophy Catch program rewards anglers with prizes and entries into annual drawings for submitting verified catch submissions. To participate, anglers must take a photo or video of their catch on a scale with the weight clearly legible prior to release and then submit the documentation via the program's website.

Rodman Reservoir is truly a lunker factory, producing numerous trophy bass each year. As Travis Tuten, FWC Fisheries Biologist, recalls personally certifying a bass over 14 pounds. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, Rodman Reservoir is an ideal destination for catching big fish and enjoying the great outdoors.

So mark your calendars for the Rodman Reservoir drawdown schedule 2021 and get ready to reel in some monster bass!

Rodman reservoir drawdown schedule 2021