June in Southwest Florida marks the start of summer heat—and some of the best bass fishing of the year. As temperatures rise, largemouth bass behavior becomes more predictable, which gives anglers the advantage. And for those in Wellen Park, there’s no better place to fish than Grand Lake. With 80 acres of open water, depths reaching 30 feet, and a well-stocked population of bass and panfish, Grand Lake offers a rare combination of accessibility, beauty, and serious fish-catching potential.
If you’re new to the area, or just haven’t brought a rod down to the lake yet, now’s the time.
Welcome to Grand Lake: Wellen Park’s Fishing Gem
Grand Lake isn’t your average pond or water retention basin. It’s a purpose-built lake that serves as the centerpiece of Downtown Wellen, surrounded by walking paths, seated areas, and waterfront businesses. But beneath its calm surface lies a thriving aquatic ecosystem. With an average depth far greater than most Florida ponds and deeper drop-offs throughout, Grand Lake supports healthy oxygen levels and cooler thermoclines—even in the heat of summer.
Thanks to responsible management, Grand Lake is regularly stocked with fish species that make for a perfect day of freshwater fishing. Largemouth bass are the headliners, but you’ll also find bluegill, shellcracker, and tilapia patrolling the shallows and staging areas.
And yes—it’s absolutely fishable.
June Bass Patterns: Why This Month Delivers
By June, most bass have finished spawning and are entering a recovery and feeding phase. The longer, warmer days push fish into deeper water during the middle of the day, but early mornings and late evenings remain prime time for feeding.
Grand Lake’s structure and layout—complete with ledges, vegetation near the banks, and varied bottom contours—create textbook summer ambush points. In the early hours, bass move up to the shallows to chase baitfish and bluegill. As the sun rises, they retreat to deeper water, often hovering along drop-offs or structure lines.
Whether you’re casting from the bank or dropping a line from a paddleboard or kayak, understanding this pattern is key to landing fish consistently.
Where to Fish and What to Throw
Morning & Evening:
Work the shallows near the boardwalk edges, especially areas with overhanging trees, rocks, or submerged grass. Topwater lures like frogs, buzzbaits, or poppers can draw explosive strikes.
Midday:
Move out to deeper edges and transitions. Use Texas-rigged worms, deep-diving crankbaits, or slow-rolled spinnerbaits. Wacky rigs and weightless stick baits also work well when fish are suspending.
Bonus Tip:
Bluegill start spawning in June too, and bass love to hover near their beds. Match-the-hatch by using bluegill-colored swimbaits or chatterbaits.
Bait and Gear? We’ve Got You Covered
At Kind Vibes Outfitters, right on the edge of Grand Lake, we make it easy to fish. They carry live red worms and night crawlers for bait.
Forgot your rod? No problem. They offer rentals too, along with drinks and food can be provided by Lago Tacos or Lakeside Bites. Kind Vibes is more than a rental station—it’s a hub for outdoor fun and local insight.
Ask our staff what’s been working, and we’ll point you in the right direction. We hear about the hot bites daily, and we’re always happy to share tips.
Paddle, Fish, Chill: Make a Day of It
One of the best parts of fishing Grand Lake is that it’s more than just fishing. Launch a kayak or paddleboard (bring your own or rent a kayak from Kind Vibes), and cruise the quiet corners of the lake for a peaceful angling session. Or grab a panini from Lakeside Bites and make it a full afternoon with the family. There are shaded spots, music events, and enough open water to keep things relaxing, even on weekends.
And remember—this is a community lake. While you’re out there, take a minute to enjoy the views of Downtown Wellen, the occasional turtle or crane, and the feeling of being right at the heart of nature and neighborhood combined.
Local Fishing Tips
- Start early – The bite is best from sunrise until about 9 AM
- Keep it simple – Soft plastics, small spinnerbaits, and live bait are all you need
- Stay cool – Bring water, wear a hat, and fish from shaded spots mid-morning
- Catch & release encouraged – Let’s keep Grand Lake stocked and thriving
- No fishing license required on Grand Lake – other areas outside of Wellen Park will need proper fishing license
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just introducing your kids to their first cast, June is the perfect month to drop a line in Grand Lake. It’s close, convenient, and stocked with fish waiting for you. Come down to Kind Vibes, grab some bait, and get out there—Wellen Park’s best bass fishing is right in your backyard.
