Alligator Lake Fishing

ALLIGATOR LAKE (approximately 800 acres) is located in Columbia County near Lake City. Nearly two-thirds of the total lake surface area is within the city limits. Prior to 1997, only 338 acres were accessible to the public. Subsequently, Columbia County purchased an adjacent 987 acres with money obtained through the Preservation 2000 Communities Trust. This purchase included nearly 450 acres of former lake bottom that were diked and drained for agricultural practices in the 1950's and 1960's.

Several sinkholes are located in the north and south basins of the lake which provide direct connection to the aquifer. One of these sinkholes has been responsible for frequently draining the northern lake basin. This results from increased hydraulic pressure upon sinkhole sediments as groundwater levels subside during periods of drought. During these events, the southern areas of the lake retain water, as a shallow connection exists between north and south basins.

Columbia County’s Alligator Lake Park opened in April 2002. The entrance to the park can be found off of Old Country Club road in Lake City. A small boat launch on the north marsh central drainage canal and walking access or boatless fishing will provide unique angling opportunities.

Note: Alligator Lake is a Fish Management Area (license is required to fish in north and south lake basins and north and south marshes).

Water levels throughout the marsh and lake proper are very low. It appears that the sinkhole in the northern basin has stopped taking water, allowing for run off to collect and begin the refilling cycle. This area will require restocking, so consider the marsh if spending any time in the north. Along the main canal of the marsh has been mowed and with low water levels provides considerable bank access. Recently a rough fish roundup (gar and bowfin) occurred in the marsh waters that will alleviate competition for prey items. Water levels in the south basin are low, but fishing can still be productive. A good spot for panfish is southwest of the small island in open water. Electofishing surveys have found congregations of panfish holding in this section of the southern basin.

Note – Anglers and Hunters: The north and south marshes are established as Alligator Lake Small Game Hunting Area (ducks only) on Tuesdays and Thursdays until noon. During these hours no fishing access will be permitted during the established waterfowl season.