Do I need a fishing license?

Yes, most anglers need a valid Florida freshwater fishing license, especially if you’re age 16 to 64. Some charter operators may help you confirm what’s required before the trip.

Is Headwaters Lake catch-and-release only?

Yes, largemouth bass are generally treated as a catch-and-release fishery here, so you should expect to release bass after catching them.

What’s the best time of year to go?

Many guides say the prime trophy season is roughly January through April, when bass are spawning and feeding aggressively.

What bait or lures work best?

Commonly recommended options include wild shiners, topwater lures, weedless soft plastics, and punch/jig-style presentations for thick vegetation.

What should I bring on the charter?

Bring sun protection, water, weather-appropriate clothing, and any personal items you’ll need for a full day on the water. Your guide usually provides the boat, gear, and local know-how, but it’s smart to confirm exactly what’s included when you book.

TOP RATED HEADWATERS LAKE FISHING CHARTERS

Welcome to our Headwaters Lake fishing trips, charters, and tours to help you catch that trophy Florida largemouth bass with our expert local guides

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OUR HEADWATERS LAKE FISHING CHARTERS

BASS FISHING

PONTOON FISHING

CRAPPIE FISHING

Welcome to our Headwaters Lake Fishing Charters, where we create fishing adventures you do not want to miss. Our Headwaters bass fishing guides allow access to the BEST bass fishing the state of Florida has to offer and now is the time to catch that triophy largemouth bass you have been dreaming of.

Headwaters Lake is a top destination for bass fishing in Central Florida, offering a unique opportunity to catch trophy largemouth bass. Headwaters lake is located in Fellsmere, FL. It is conveniently located near Sebastian and Vero Beach, FL. It is renowned for its exceptional fishing experiences, drawing anglers from all over who are eager to land big bass and other species.

Our Headwaters Lake Fishing Charters provide an unparalleled angling adventure with the expertise of local fishing guides and professionals. We offer a range of charter options, including 4, 6, 8-hour trips, ensuring a tailored experience to suit your schedule and fishing goals.

Our seasoned guides, such as Captain Bill Goudy Jr., Captain Steve Spatafora, and Captain Paul Dampier, bring extensive local knowledge and expertise to each trip. They are dedicated to providing you with the best techniques and insights into the lake’s seasonal patterns, increasing your chances of landing a trophy largemouth bass while fishing at Headwaters Lake.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the sport, our fishing charters promise a memorable experience. With high-quality gear and expert guidance, you’ll be well-equipped to explore the scenic waters of Headwaters Lake and enjoy the thrill of a day bass trip. Join us for an unforgettable fishing adventure in one of Central Florida’s premier fishing destinations.

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4-HOUR

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HEADWATERS FISHING CHARTER DETAILS

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HIGHLIGHTS

Breathtaking Scenery
Trophy Bass Destination
Fully Chartered
Birds & other animals
Perfect for All Skill Levels

Inclusions

Boat
All Equipment
Fuel
No Taxes
Cooler, Ice, and Water

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Exclusions

Specialty Food
Gratuities
Fishing Licenses
Capacity 4 max
Alcohol Not Provided

Species Caught

Largemouth Bass
Crappie
Bluegill
Florida Gar
Mudfish

Choosing the Right Guide Service

When choosing a guide service for Headwaters Lake, consider the expertise and local knowledge of guides like what we hacve to offer here at Headwaters Lake Fishing Guides. These seasoned professionals offer invaluable insights into the lake’s seasonal patterns and are dedicated to providing top-tier gear and expert guidance to help anglers catch trophy bass. Many people travel to Headwaters Lake year-round, increasing the demand for experienced guide services. Look for guide services that offer personalized experiences and tailored trips to meet your needs, ensuring a memorable and successful fishing adventure.

Additionally, it’s important to assess the reputation and customer reviews of the guide service. Positive testimonials and high ratings can be indicators of a reliable and enjoyable experience. Consider reaching out to previous customers or browsing online forums and social media platforms for firsthand accounts of their fishing trips. This can provide you with a clearer picture of what to expect and help you make an informed decision.

Furthermore, inquire about the types of fishing techniques and equipment used by the guides. Some services might specialize in using specific lures or bait, such as artificial lures or wild shiners, which can enhance your chances of catching big bass. Also, check if the service offers any additional amenities, like providing cold drinks, snacks, or even photography services to capture your catch-of-the-day moments.

Lastly, consider the flexibility and customization options offered by the guide service. Whether you’re an experienced angler looking for a challenge or a family seeking a leisurely day on the water, the right guide service should be able to accommodate your preferences and skill level on our Headwaters Lake Fishing Charters.

OUR HEADWATERS LAKE PONTOON FISHING CHARTERS

If you’re searching for a comfortable, family-friendly way to fish one of Florida’s most legendary trophy bass lakes, look no further than Pontoon Fishing Charters at Headwaters Lake with Captain Cody Dampier. Headwaters Lake, also known as Fellsmere Reservoir, has exploded onto the national stage for producing giant largemouth bass, ultra-healthy vegetation, and some of the most reliable year-round action anywhere in the state. A pontoon charter takes that experience to another level, offering space, stability, and comfort without sacrificing performance or big-fish potential.

Fish Headwaters Lake in Comfort and Style

Unlike traditional bass boats that limit movement, a pontoon opens the deck up for couples, kids, seniors, and groups who want more room to relax and enjoy the water. Captain Cody’s custom-rigged pontoon is built specifically for fishing, featuring a spacious layout, high-quality seating, a huge casting area, rod storage, and all the safety equipment needed for a stress-free day on the reservoir. Whether you’re sight-casting along the grass lines, drifting hydrilla flats, or working reaction baits in the open water, the pontoon provides a steady, comfortable platform for every skill level.

Meet Your Guide: Captain Cody Dampier

Captain Cody Dampier is a seasoned Fellsmere and Stick Marsh area guide, widely known for his easygoing personality, deep local knowledge, and skill for putting clients on fish, even when Headwaters gets pressured. Cody’s approach is simple: he adapts to daily conditions, rotates through productive zones, and selects presentations that maximize your opportunity at big female bass. His experience with live bait and artificial lures gives anglers options, and he’s excellent with beginners, families, and kids making their first trip to Headwaters Lake.

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Headwaters Lake Pontoon Fishing Charters

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HEADWATERS LAKE FISHING CHARTERS REVIEWS

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AI Summary

Based on 446 reviews

Capt. Bill 5/5 great guide, highly recommend.

jane Bir

10/05/2026

Captain Bill was awesome, had a fantastic time and caught a lot of good fish

10/04/2026

Had an incredible day out with Captain Bill. He was the ultimate professional, patient, and made the whole trip feel fun and easy. He put us on the fish, kept us laughing, and made sure my son, nephew, brother, and I were all having a great time the whole way through. Couldn’t have asked for a better captain or a better day. Highly recommend Captain Bill.

Hyzens Marc

10/04/2026

Went out this morning with Captain Bill. We had a great time. Was on fish right away and Captain Bill made sure it was a great day!

ED FISHER

10/02/2026

Got to fish the beautiful Headwaters Lake with Cpt Bill Goudy and we smashed em!! Lost count on how many we caught! Fantastic guide and a beautiful reservoir!!

Lindsey S

9/27/2026

Captain Bill was beyond awesome! He made the whole experience better than expected!

Scott Yaldo

9/26/2026

Another fantastic day of fishing with Capt Bill on Headwaters Lake! Thanks so much! Can’t wait to return!

Doug Stein

9/25/2026

My brother and I had an amazing time with Captain Bill. We ended up putting 58 fish on the deck before 2 o’clock. Highly recommend Captain Bill for anything headwaters

James Gale

9/21/2026

Had a wonderful time with captain Bill, he put me on some great fish. Bill is a very polite person and very knowledgeable of the area. When I return there on vacation he will be my go to guide.

terry brasel

9/17/2026

Bill works hard the entire time to gove you the best experience on the water.

Kelly Johnson

8/30/2026

We had a great time with Captain Steve. He is very knowledgeable, friendly and a great guy! You can tell Captain is knows all there is to know about fishing.

Kevin Johnson

8/29/2026

Had a great time with Capt Steve! He was very accommodating with our availability. He fit us in before the bad weather came. We all caught fish and enjoyed our time on the water

patrick green

8/28/2026

Paul was a great guide! Caught lots of bass and had a wonderful morning. Next time we are back we are going to fish with Paul!

CK 18

8/25/2026

Today I had (captain bill goudy). The best fishing experience I’ve ever had ,caught and released 22 bass overall. I’m a seasoned fisherman so I knew the basics but haven’t been bass fishing before today. My fishing guide bill Goudy was absolutely brilliant his knowledge on bass and the wildlife in general was impeccable and would highly recommend choosing him if you’d like to catch fish.Thanks James

James Watson

8/25/2026

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OUR HEADWATERS LAKE CRAPPIE FISHING CHARTERS

While most anglers come to Headwaters Lake in search of trophy largemouth bass, crappie fishing has become an increasingly popular option for those looking to enjoy a lighter tackle experience with plenty of action. If you’re in the mood for a fun and productive day on the water — and maybe a few fillets for the table — booking a crappie fishing charters is a great choice.

Headwaters Lake, with its rich vegetation and carefully designed structure, offers excellent habitat for black crappie and bluegill year-round. These trips are ideal for anglers of all skill levels, especially families and those who love steady bites throughout the day.

We offer 4-, 6-, and 8-hour crappie Headwaters Lake fishing charters, and just like our bass trips, they come with top-quality gear, a comfortable boat setup, and everything you need to enjoy your time on the water.

You’ll be in great hands with our experienced guides, many of whom specialize in both crappie and bass fishing. Captains like Paul Dampier, Justin Carriker, Cody Dampier, and Colton Hester are just a few of the friendly faces you might fish with. They’re passionate about putting people on fish, whether it’s helping a beginner catch their first slab or helping a seasoned angler dial in on a school with pinpoint accuracy.

These trips can be done with artificial jigs, live minnows, or a mix of both depending on your preference and the conditions that day. If you’re looking to change things up or want a relaxing day of steady action, crappie fishing on Headwaters is a fantastic option to add to your adventure.