🎣 Fishing Spot: Ten Mile Creek Reservoir (Treasure Coast)

🏞️ General Details About Ten Mile Creek Reservoir - Treasure Coast

Ten Mile Creek Reservoir—a 220-acre freshwater impoundment in western Fort Pierce—represents one of the Treasure Coast's most accessible and productive bass fishing destinations for anglers seeking quiet water alternatives to the region's famous saltwater fisheries. Created in the 1970s as a water supply reservoir for Fort Pierce Utilities Authority, this elongated lake stretches approximately two miles along the Ten Mile Creek valley, featuring shallow coves, cypress-lined banks, extensive vegetation (lily pads, hydrilla, peppergrass), submerged creek channels, and abundant shoreline structure. With average depths of 4-8 feet throughout most areas, deeper holes reaching 12-15 feet in the old creek channel, excellent aquatic vegetation supporting healthy bass and panfish populations, and a no-wake restriction maintaining peaceful conditions, Ten Mile Creek Reservoir offers family-friendly fishing experiences, consistent action for largemouth bass (2-8 pounds typical, occasional trophies over 10 pounds), outstanding bluegill and shellcracker beds during spring spawn, dependable crappie concentrations around structure, and surprisingly good catfishing—all within twenty minutes of Fort Pierce's beaches and marinas.

🌟 Why Ten Mile Creek Reservoir Is Special

• Quiet No-Wake Refuge from Saltwater Crowds
  While most Treasure Coast anglers focus on Indian River Lagoon's redfish and snook or St. Lucie Inlet's tarpon and jacks, Ten Mile Creek Reservoir remains a peaceful freshwater alternative attracting far fewer anglers despite consistently productive fishing. The no-wake restriction eliminates ski boats, jet skis, and fast-moving bass boats, creating calm conditions ideal for kayak fishing, float tube enthusiasts, small jonboats, and anglers seeking tranquil experiences. Weekend mornings that find popular saltwater launch ramps packed with trailers see Ten Mile Creek's single boat ramp nearly empty—you can launch, paddle to productive structure, and fish undisturbed for hours without encountering other anglers. This solitude appeals particularly to locals seeking convenient after-work fishing, retirees enjoying leisurely mornings, families introducing children to fishing (calm water, consistent panfish action, safe environment), and anglers tired of saltwater's crowds, expenses, and complexity. The reservoir's freshwater nature also means no saltwater fishing license complications, no tide charts to consult, and tackle that won't corrode overnight—simpler fishing for those desiring uncomplicated experiences.

• Excellent Largemouth Bass Population with Trophy Potential
  Ten Mile Creek Reservoir supports a thriving largemouth bass fishery producing consistent action for average fish (2-5 pounds), regular quality catches (5-8 pounds), and occasional trophy specimens exceeding 10 pounds. The reservoir's fertility—fed by agricultural runoff and natural nutrients from surrounding wetlands—creates abundant forage base (shiners, small bluegill, crayfish, insects) allowing bass to grow quickly and maintain healthy body condition. Extensive aquatic vegetation provides classic Florida bass habitat: lily pad fields offering shade and ambush points, hydrilla beds creating underwater structure, peppergrass edges forming transition zones, and scattered cypress trees adding vertical cover. The relatively small size (220 acres) concentrates fish, making bass easier to locate than sprawling lakes requiring extensive searching. Anglers familiar with the reservoir's productive zones—creek channel bends, vegetation edges, cypress tree lines, deeper holes—consistently catch multiple bass per outing. Spring through fall produces best action (75-85°F water temps optimal), though winter bass fishing remains productive during warm spells. The bass aren't overly pressured or educated—they respond aggressively to properly presented lures and live bait, making Ten Mile Creek excellent for beginners learning bass fishing while still challenging experienced anglers seeking quality fish.

• Outstanding Panfish Action for Families and Light Tackle
  Beyond bass fishing, Ten Mile Creek Reservoir excels at producing consistent panfish action—bluegill, shellcracker (redear sunfish), and crappie provide nonstop catches perfect for family outings, youth anglers, and those simply enjoying light-tackle fishing. Spring brings spectacular bluegill and shellcracker spawning activity—fish bed in shallow water (2-4 feet) near shoreline vegetation, creating visible spawning colonies where dozens of fish congregate. Locate these beds (look for circular cleared areas in sand or shell bottom), drop live crickets or worms, and catch bluegill after bluegill—hand-sized fish (6-8 inches) common with occasional dinner-plate specimens (10+ inches). Shellcrackers grow larger than bluegill (averaging 8-10 inches, trophy fish exceeding 12 inches and 1+ pound) and provide outstanding table fare. Crappie fishing peaks late winter through spring (January-April) as fish congregate around submerged brush, docks, and cypress trees preparing for spawn. Locate crappie schools (electronics help but systematic searching works), present small jigs or live minnows at proper depth (usually 4-8 feet), and enjoy fast action—crappie often school tightly meaning multiple fish from single location. The panfish abundance keeps kids engaged, provides easy introductory fishing, and delivers excellent eating when harvested within regulations.

• Ideal Kayak Fishing Dimensions and Conditions
  Ten Mile Creek Reservoir's combination of small size, shallow depths, no-wake restriction, and abundant shoreline access makes it nearly perfect for kayak fishing. The reservoir's elongated shape (approximately two miles long, 500-800 feet wide in most areas) means you're never far from shore—safety and confidence for solo kayakers. Shallow average depths (4-8 feet mostly) eliminate concerns about fishing over deep water or losing gear in unfathomable depths. No-wake regulation keeps water calm—paddling requires minimal effort, positioning stays stable, and capsizing risks decrease dramatically compared to wind-whipped larger lakes. Launch sites provide easy access (drive close to water, short carry to launch), and the entire reservoir can be thoroughly fished in 3-4 hour session by covering water systematically. Kayak anglers can quietly approach cypress trees, lily pad fields, and vegetated banks that larger boats struggle to reach, accessing prime bass and panfish zones unavailable to most anglers. The kayak-friendly nature also reduces costs—no boat to maintain, buy fuel for, or insure, while still accessing quality fishing. Many Ten Mile Creek regulars fish exclusively from kayaks, developing intimate knowledge of specific trees, vegetation edges, and bottom contours producing consistently.

• Excellent Aquatic Vegetation Supporting Complete Food Chain
  Healthy aquatic vegetation defines Ten Mile Creek Reservoir—lily pads, hydrilla, peppergrass, cattails, and other plants create underwater habitat supporting the entire food chain. Vegetation provides critical functions: oxygen production (photosynthesis during daylight), cover for baitfish (small bluegill, shiners, minnows shelter in plants), ambush points for predators (bass, catfish hide in vegetation waiting for prey), spawning substrate (panfish attach eggs to plants), and insect habitat (dragonfly nymphs, damselflies, other bass food sources). The vegetation diversity creates fishing opportunities—lily pads for topwater and flipping, hydrilla edges for Carolina rigs and crankbaits, peppergrass for weedless soft plastics, open pockets within vegetation for precise presentations. Understanding how bass and panfish relate to different vegetation types separates consistent producers from random casters. Spring through fall brings peak vegetation growth—plants flourish in warm water and abundant sunlight, creating maximum cover and structure. Winter die-back reduces vegetation slightly but enough remains for productive fishing. Water management occasionally treats excessive vegetation with herbicides—monitoring treatment schedules (contact Fort Pierce Utilities) helps anglers avoid post-treatment periods when decomposing vegetation reduces oxygen and slows fishing temporarily.

• Submerged Creek Channel Creates Depth Variations and Structure
  Ten Mile Creek once flowed naturally through the valley before impoundment—the original creek channel remains visible on depth finders as a meandering deeper path (10-15 feet) winding through shallower surrounding water (4-8 feet). This submerged channel creates critical structure and depth variations bass and crappie use throughout the year. Channel bends concentrate fish—current (minimal but present) deflects around bends creating eddies, deeper water provides thermal refuge (cooler summer, warmer winter), and transitions from shallow to deep form classic ambush zones. Locate channel using electronics or systematically probing with weighted lures until finding depth drop. Fish channel edges thoroughly—bass stage at transitions watching shallower flats for prey, crappie suspend over channel during cooler months, and catfish patrol channel seeking food. The channel also serves as highway—fish travel along it moving between feeding areas, making it productive even when specific structure (trees, vegetation) seems inactive. Winter fishing particularly benefits from understanding channel location—cold fronts push fish to deeper, more stable water temperatures found in channel depths.

• Cypress Trees and Submerged Timber Provide Cover and Ambush Points
  Scattered throughout Ten Mile Creek Reservoir, cypress trees (both standing and fallen) create premium fish-holding structure. Standing cypress offer shade (fish suspend in shadows during bright conditions), vertical cover (bass hide alongside trunks), and crappie magnets (fish relate tightly to tree structure particularly during spawn). Fallen trees and submerged stumps create complex underwater structure—branches, root systems, and trunks provide hiding spots, ambush points, and current breaks. Learn locations of productive trees through exploration—GPS marking specific trees allows return visits. Work trees thoroughly from multiple angles—cast to shaded side, present lures parallel to trunk, bounce baits through branches (snags inevitable but fish worth it). Crappie fishing around cypress peaks late winter through spring—fish stack around trees at specific depths (usually 4-8 feet), small jigs or live minnows suspended at proper depth produce doubles and triples. Bass use cypress year-round but particularly during hot summer days—shade provides cooler water and fish become more active in comfortable temperatures.

• Consistent Year-Round Fishing with Seasonal Species Activity
  Unlike fisheries with pronounced off-seasons, Ten Mile Creek Reservoir produces catches every month with seasonal variations enhancing rather than eliminating opportunities. Winter (December-February) brings excellent crappie fishing as fish school tightly around structure, good bass action on warm days (cold fronts slow activity 1-2 days but recovery quick in South Florida), and consistent catfish on bottom rigs. Spring (March-May) delivers peak action—bass spawn in shallows (March-April) then feed aggressively post-spawn, bluegill and shellcracker bed prolifically (April-May) creating outstanding panfishing, and crappie remain active before dispersing into deeper water. Summer (June-September) offers early morning and late afternoon bass fishing (midday heat slows activity), consistent panfish action around vegetation, and excellent catfish on cut bait and prepared baits. Fall (October-November) provides comfortable temperatures, bass feeding aggressively preparing for winter, and renewed crappie activity as fish begin pre-spawn staging. The year-round productivity combined with convenient access makes Ten Mile Creek ideal for spontaneous fishing trips—check weather, grab gear, and be fishing within thirty minutes regardless of season.

• Outstanding Table Fare Opportunities for Harvest-Minded Anglers
  While many modern anglers practice catch-and-release, Ten Mile Creek Reservoir supports healthy populations allowing reasonable harvest of certain species for excellent table fare. Bluegill and shellcracker rank among freshwater fishing's finest eating—mild, sweet, flaky meat with minimal "fishy" taste. Keep 8-10 inch fish (smaller fish haven't reached reproductive potential, larger fish are breeding stock), fillet properly removing all bones, and enjoy fried, baked, or grilled. Crappie provide outstanding eating too—white, flaky meat similar to but milder than saltwater panfish. Black crappie and speckled perch (regional name) both present, all excellent table quality. Channel catfish (particularly fish under 5 pounds) deliver firm, mild fillets—remove skin and dark lateral meat for best flavor. Largemouth bass are edible but most anglers release bass to preserve fishery—fast-growing panfish populations handle harvest pressure better than slower-growing predator populations. Always follow Florida regulations regarding size and bag limits, harvest only what you'll eat, and practice proper fish handling (ice immediately, clean promptly) ensuring quality meals.

• Easy Shore Fishing Access for Anglers Without Boats
  Beyond the boat ramp and kayak launch, Ten Mile Creek Reservoir offers limited but productive shore fishing opportunities. The dam area provides bank access—fish from riprap or adjacent grassy banks, cast toward deeper water where dam creates depth change, and catch bass, catfish, bluegill. Vegetation along accessible shoreline sections holds fish—cast to lily pad edges, work weedless lures through peppergrass, and find bass and panfish near cover. While boat or kayak provides best access to prime structure, shore-bound anglers can still catch fish by thoroughly working available water. Bring bait (live crickets or worms for panfish, shiners for bass, cut bait or chicken liver for catfish), use simple rigs (bobber and hook for panfish, Carolina rigs for bass, bottom rigs for catfish), and fish patiently. Early morning and late afternoon produce best shore fishing—fish move shallower during low light periods bringing them within casting range. The shore fishing accessibility means families without boats can still enjoy the reservoir, keeping freshwater fishing available to anglers of all resource levels.

• Low Cost and Minimal Equipment Requirements
  Fishing Ten Mile Creek Reservoir requires minimal financial investment compared to saltwater fishing or large lake bass fishing. Florida freshwater fishing license ($17 residents, $47 non-residents annually) provides legal access—far cheaper than offshore trips or guide fees. Basic tackle handles all species—medium spinning rod with 8-12 lb line catches bass and catfish, ultralight setup (4-6 lb line) for bluegill and crappie. Lures prove inexpensive—soft plastic worms and creatures (under $5 per pack), topwater frogs for lily pads, small jigs for panfish and crappie. Live bait stays affordable—crickets, worms, shiners from local bait shops cost $3-10. No boat required—kayak, canoe, or float tube accesses entire reservoir, or fish from shore. No specialized electronics needed—fish-finding success comes from observation, exploration, and pattern recognition rather than expensive depth finders (though they help). This affordability democratizes quality fishing, allowing youth anglers, retirees on fixed incomes, and budget-conscious families to enjoy productive outings without financial stress. The low barrier to entry also means spontaneous trips become possible—grab gear and go without extensive planning or expense.

• Convenient Treasure Coast Location with Urban Proximity
  Ten Mile Creek Reservoir's location in western Fort Pierce—just twenty minutes from Atlantic beaches, fifteen minutes from Indian River Lagoon access, and adjacent to urban amenities—creates convenient fishing opportunities. After exploring Fort Pierce Inlet's saltwater action, swing by Ten Mile Creek for evening bass fishing. Between beach days, spend morning catching bluegill with kids. After work, drive fifteen minutes for relaxing kayak fishing. The proximity to full-service tackle shops (live bait, lures, advice), restaurants (post-fishing meals), grocery stores (ice, supplies), and gas stations (fuel, drinks) means you're never far from necessities. This convenience factor increases fishing frequency—easier access means more trips, more trips mean better skills and knowledge, creating positive cycle of engagement and success. Visiting anglers staying in Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, or Stuart areas can easily add Ten Mile Creek to itineraries, diversifying fishing experiences beyond saltwater focus. The urban proximity also provides safety net—cell service works throughout area, hospitals accessible if emergencies arise, and help available if equipment fails.

💵 Cost and Access (2025)

Ten Mile Creek Reservoir offers straightforward, affordable access with minimal fees.

🎫 2025 Access and Fees

Launch and Access Information:

Primary Boat Ramp:

• Location: Western side of reservoir off Glades Cut-Off Road
• Type: Single-lane concrete ramp; good condition
• Parking: Limited spaces (12-15 vehicles with trailers); arrive early weekends
• No-wake zone: Entire reservoir; idle speed only
• Suitable for: Small boats (under 20 feet ideal), kayaks, canoes, jon boats

Kayak Launch:

• Same location as boat ramp: Easy carry to water
• Alternative entry: Several spots along accessible shoreline
• Recommended: Stable fishing kayak or sit-on-top; stand-up paddle boards work

Shore Fishing Access:

• Dam area: Walk from parking area; fish from bank
• Scattered shoreline: Limited access due to vegetation and private property
• Respect boundaries: Much of surrounding land is private; stay on public access

Directions from Fort Pierce:

• Take US-1 / Okeechobee Road west
• Turn on Glades Cut-Off Road
• Follow signs to Ten Mile Creek Reservoir
• Approximately 15-20 minutes from downtown Fort Pierce

Fishing Regulations (2025):

• Largemouth Bass: 5 fish per day; 13" minimum length
• Bluegill/Shellcracker: 50 per day combined; no minimum size
• Crappie (Black/Speckled Perch): 25 per day; 10" minimum length
• Catfish (Channel): No size/bag limits
• Always verify current regulations: FWC.com; rules change periodically

Essential Considerations:

• No-wake restriction: Strictly enforced; idle speed only
• Shallow water: Watch for stumps and vegetation; prop damage possible
• Limited facilities: No restrooms at launch area; plan accordingly
• Summer heat: Morning and evening fishing most comfortable; bring sun protection
• Alligators present: Common in Florida lakes; give wide berth; don't approach
• Private property: Much of shoreline is private; respect boundaries
• Water levels vary: Drought lowers levels creating navigation challenges; rain raises levels

🐟 Species and Seasonal Timing

Ten Mile Creek Reservoir supports typical Florida freshwater species with healthy populations and consistent availability.

🎯 Mastering Ten Mile Creek Reservoir: Advanced Techniques

Success at Ten Mile Creek Reservoir requires understanding shallow water bass behavior, vegetation fishing, and panfish location patterns. These three techniques produce consistent results.

🎯 Technique #1: Flipping Lily Pad Fields for Shallow Water Bass

Overview
Extensive lily pad fields cover significant portions of Ten Mile Creek Reservoir's shallows, creating classic Florida bass habitat. These vegetation mats provide overhead cover (shade from bright sun), ambush points (bass hide beneath pads waiting for prey), comfortable water temperatures (shade keeps water cooler during summer heat), and concentrated forage (small bluegill, frogs, insects shelter in pads). Learning to effectively fish lily pads—making accurate flipping presentations, working weedless lures through vegetation, triggering strikes in heavy cover, and extracting fish from tangles—unlocks some of the reservoir's most productive bass fishing. The flipping technique works year-round but peaks spring through fall when bass actively use shallow vegetation.

Lily pad fishing requires specific tackle: medium-heavy rods (7-7'6") providing power to pull fish from cover, heavy line (15-25 lb test minimum) withstanding abrasion from stems and roots, weedless lures (topwater frogs, Texas-rigged soft plastics) passing through pads without constant snags, and patience (more snags than open water fishing, but fish worth it). Master lily pad fishing and you've developed skills applying to virtually any shallow vegetation fishing throughout Florida and beyond.

When to Deploy This Technique

• Prime Season: April-October (warmest water, most active shallow bass)
• Best Times: Early morning (dawn through 10am), late afternoon (4pm through dusk)
• Optimal Conditions: Overcast days (fish more active in pads during lower light), calm water (easier to see pads and place casts)
• Water Temperature: Above 70°F best; 75-85°F peak bass activity in shallows

Understanding why bass use lily pads proves fundamental. Shade preference ranks primary—bass avoid bright sunlight when possible, pads create dark shadows beneath, and cooler water under shade more comfortable during summer heat. Ambush advantage matters too—bass suspend beneath pads watching for prey movement, frogs hop on pads (bass explode upward taking frogs from surface), and small fish shelter at pad edges (bass cruise along picking them off). Oxygen production from photosynthesis keeps pad areas well-oxygenated even during hot afternoons when other shallow areas suffocate. The pads also attract prey—insects lay eggs on pads, small bluegill hide in stems, and crayfish burrow in mud around roots.

The best lily pad configurations include pads adjacent to deeper water—bass use deep water as refuge then move shallow to feed. Isolated pad clumps prove more productive than uniform blankets—edges create transition zones. Open pockets within pad fields concentrate fish—bass stage in openings watching surrounding cover. Lily pads mixed with other vegetation (peppergrass, hydrilla) increase structural diversity attracting more fish.

Flipping technique requires specific casting motion. Use underhand flip rather than overhead cast—rod tip starts low, use wrist to flip lure in gentle arc, and lure lands softly on target without splashing. Practice accuracy before fishing—need to place lure within inches of target. Short pitches work for close targets (10-20 feet), longer swings for distant pads (20-40 feet). Pull line from reel with non-casting hand, controlling amount deployed.

Target selection determines success. Focus on edges first—where lily pads meet open water bass cruise edges, easier presentations than deep in pads, and allows working toward denser cover if edges unproductive. Isolated pad clumps away from main fields often hold big fish—less pressure, bass know prey concentrates at these obvious features, and worth long cast. Pockets and openings within pad fields create feeding zones—bass stage at pockets watching all sides. The densest, nastiest-looking cover sometimes holds biggest bass—other anglers skip it (too difficult), reducing pressure on best fish.

Lure selection for lily pads emphasizes weedless designs. Topwater frogs excel—hollow body frogs walk across pads perfectly, collapse on strike allowing hookset, and trigger explosive surface strikes. Work frogs slowly across pads with rod tip creating walking action, pause at openings (strikes often occur during pause), and set hook hard when fish explodes (need drive hooks through frog and into mouth). Soft plastic creatures Texas-rigged weedless work well—flip into pockets, let sink to bottom, hop slowly back. Creature baits (with multiple appendages) create more vibration than straight worms. Use heavy weights (3/8-1 oz) to punch through vegetation. Weighted swimbait hooks allow using paddle tail plastics weedless—swim through openings and along edges.

Color selection adapts to conditions. Dark colors (black, black/blue, junebug) work in stained water or low light—better visibility, silhouette effect against surface when topwater. Natural colors (watermelon, green pumpkin) in clearer water look more realistic. Bright colors (white, chartreuse) in very stained water or overcast conditions increase visibility.

When you get a strike on topwater, wait for weight before setting. Bass often blow up on frog without getting it—multiple strikes common before solid hookup. Feel fish load rod then set hard—driving hooks through frog body and into fish requires power. With subsurface baits, set immediately on bite—feel thump, reel down to eliminate slack, then firm hookset.

After hookup, immediately apply maximum pressure pulling fish toward open water. Bass dive for cover instinctively—must turn them quickly before reaching thickest vegetation. Keep rod high maintaining upward pressure—prevents fish diving deep. Use heavy line's full strength—winching sometimes necessary in heavy cover. If fish tangles in pads, give slack briefly (sometimes fish swims free), then reapply pressure from different angle. Bring fish to boat quickly once clear of heavy cover—prolonged battles stress fish and risk losing them.

🎯 Technique #2: Systematic Creek Channel Fishing for Quality Bass

Overview
The submerged Ten Mile Creek channel winding through the reservoir creates depth variations and structural features bass use throughout the year. This sunken creek—visible on electronics as deeper water (10-15 feet) snaking through shallower surrounding areas (4-8 feet)—provides comfort zones during temperature extremes, travel routes between feeding areas, and ambush points where depth changes create transitions. Understanding how to locate the channel, identify productive areas along it (bends, intersections with shallow cover, depth changes), and present baits effectively at various depths unlocks consistent catches of quality bass, particularly during periods when shallow vegetation fishing slows (cold fronts, extreme heat, high fishing pressure).

Creek channel fishing requires different approach than shallow water techniques. Electronics help tremendously—depth finders reveal channel location, structure along it, and sometimes show suspended fish. However, anglers without electronics can still succeed by systematically probing with weighted lures until finding depth drops, then following these contours. The channel fishing technique works year-round but particularly shines during tougher conditions when bass seek deeper, more stable environments.

When to Deploy This Technique

• Prime Season: Year-round (always productive; especially winter and summer extremes)
• Peak Periods: Following cold fronts (fish seek deeper, warmer water), during midday heat (depth provides cooler refuge)
• Best Times: Can produce all day (less light-dependent than shallow fishing)
• Conditions: Particularly effective when shallow bite slows

Locating the creek channel proves essential. With electronics, idle slowly watching depth finder—screen shows sudden depth increase marking channel edge, and side-scan shows channel clearly. Without electronics, use weighted lures (1/2-1 oz) systematically casting and counting down until they hit bottom. When depth suddenly increases, you've found channel edge. Note landmarks (trees, docks, shoreline features) triangulating position for future reference. GPS marking productive channel spots pays dividends.

The best channel features concentrate fish. Channel bends create current deflection (minimal but present)—inside bends have slower water, outside bends typically deeper, and both sides hold bass. Where channel runs alongside shallow structure (lily pads, cypress trees)—bass move between deep channel and shallow feeding areas, creating intersection of two productive zones. Points where channel makes sharp turns—current creates eddy, and depth change particularly abrupt. Intersections where tributaries or cuts join main channel—multiple underwater highways converge.

Bass positioning along channel varies by season and conditions. During cold weather, bass suspend directly in channel or tight to bottom—seeking warmer, more stable temperatures, less active but still feeding. Target depth 8-12 feet typically. During hot weather, bass use channel as refuge during day—cooler water at depth, move shallow to feed dawn/dusk, return to channel during bright midday. Post-cold front, bass drop to channel edges—stable conditions after weather change, slowly cruising along drop-offs. Following heavy rain, bass often position at channel—muddy runoff from shallows meets clearer channel water, and baitfish concentrate at transitions.

Presentation techniques adapt to fishing depth and conditions. For bottom contact methods, use Carolina rigs with soft plastics—allows covering water efficiently, maintains bottom contact feeling structure, and natural presentation bass find difficult to refuse. Let rig sink to bottom, drag slowly maintaining feel, stop occasionally (bass often strike stationary bait), and set hook on weight or steady pressure. Jig and pig combinations work along channel—flip into channel then hop back up slope, work along bottom slowly, and big bass love bulky presentation.

For suspended fish, use crankbaits diving to proper depth—allows covering water quickly, vibration attracts bass from distance, deflects off stumps and bottom creating erratic action. Count down before retrieve achieving target depth, maintain steady pace keeping bait at depth, and vary retrieve speed until finding what triggers strikes. Suspending jerkbaits work in cooler water—twitch-pause-twitch rhythm, suspends at depth during pause (where bass often strike), and especially effective winter and early spring.

For vertical approaches, drop shot soft plastics directly along channel edge—keeps bait at specific depth above bottom, subtle action triggers finicky fish, excellent for pinpointing fish seen on electronics. Use light shaking action, adjust depth placing bait at fish level, and watch line carefully for takes (often subtle).

Boat positioning determines success. Anchor along channel edge positioning to cast into channel and up slope—covers both deep and transition zones. Use trolling motor holding position over channel—allows systematic working along entire channel. Make repeated drifts over productive sections—fish often stage in specific spots (bends, structures), requiring multiple presentations triggering strikes.

Work channel edges thoroughly from multiple angles. Cast parallel to edge working lure along contour—keeps bait in strike zone longer than perpendicular casts. Cast from shallow to deep—retrieve up slope mimics baitfish moving from deep to shallow (natural behavior). Cast deep to shallow occasionally—some bass position in channel watching up-slope.

Electronics use provides major advantage. Watch for fish marks along channel—arches or blobs indicate suspended bass. Note depth fish are holding—adjust presentations to that level. Look for baitfish schools—bass often nearby. Observe bottom composition—hard bottom (shows as thin line) often more productive than soft mud (thick return). Structure like stumps or rocks along channel shows clearly—target these specifically.

🎯 Technique #3: Spring Bedding Bluegill for Fast Panfish Action

Overview
From April through June, bluegill and shellcracker stage one of freshwater fishing's most reliable and entertaining spectacles—spawning in shallow water creating massive bedding colonies visible from shore or boat. During this period, male sunfish (both bluegill and shellcracker) create circular nests in 2-4 feet of water, sweeping away debris and vegetation to expose sandy or shell bottom. These nests—appearing as light-colored circles against darker bottom—cluster in colonies containing dozens to hundreds of individual beds. Locating active spawning colonies, presenting simple bait properly, and catching hand-sized to dinner-plate-sized panfish provides fast action perfect for families, youth anglers, and anyone enjoying consistent catching over challenging technique.

Bedding bluegill and shellcracker prove remarkably accessible—require no expensive equipment, minimal technique beyond dropping bait to bed, and produce reliable catches when colonies located. The spring spawn also offers quality fish—males guarding beds achieve peak coloration (brilliant blues, oranges, greens), larger specimens dominate best bed locations, and aggressive nest defense creates willing strikers. Many Ten Mile Creek regulars specifically target bedding panfish during April-May, catching coolers full for fish fries while enjoying warm spring weather and beautiful Florida mornings.

When to Deploy This Technique

• Prime Season: April-June (peak spawning activity)
• Peak Period: Late April through May (warmest water triggers most activity)
• Best Times: Any time when beds active (all-day fishing possible)
• Water Temperature: 70-80°F triggers spawning; warmer water brings more fish

Understanding spawning behavior helps locate and catch bedding fish. Males create nests—sweep away debris and vegetation using fins, expose lighter-colored bottom (sand, shell, clay), and create circular depressions (12-18 inches diameter). Colonies form in shallow areas—2-4 feet depth ideal (shallower gets too warm, deeper sunlight doesn't reach), near vegetation but not in it (beds need clean bottom), protected coves away from wind and current. Males guard nests aggressively—defend against intruders (including bait), strike at anything entering territory, even after eggs hatch (protecting fry).

Locating bedding colonies requires observation. Polarized sunglasses essential—eliminate surface glare allowing you to see bottom clearly, amber or copper lenses work excellently. Look for light-colored circles on bottom—beds appear lighter than surrounding darker bottom. Watch for fish on beds—bluegill visible as dark shapes over light circles. Colonies cluster—find one bed, usually see many nearby. Check shallow coves and protected shorelines first—prime spawning habitat.

Once colony located, mark with landmarks or GPS—beds remain active for weeks, allowing return visits. Approach quietly—shallow water means fish spook from loud noises or heavy footsteps. Anchor at proper distance (just within comfortable casting range), or beach kayak outside spawning area.

Bait selection stays simple and effective. Live crickets rank supreme for bluegill—natural food source, readily accepted, stay lively on hook. Hook through collar behind head keeps cricket alive. Live red worms work excellently too—small worms or pieces of larger worms, hook once or twice exposing most of worm, and wiggling action irresistible. Live wax worms or meal worms also produce—smaller baits work for smaller fish.

Artificial baits catch bedding fish too. Small jigs (1/64-1/16 oz) tipped with piece of worm—allows longer casting, more precise presentations, and plastic bodies add attraction. Flies work wonderfully—small poppers, nymphs, wet flies presented on fly rod or spinning rod with bubble float. Tiny spinners (smallest sizes)—cast and retrieve slowly over beds.

Tackle keeps simple. Light spinning rod (6-7 feet, ultralight to light action), light line (4-6 lb test mono or fluoro)—presents small baits naturally, feels subtle bites, amplifies sport. Small hooks (#6-#10) match small baits and panfish mouths. Bobber helps—sets proper depth, indicates strikes clearly (visual cue excellent for kids), keeps bait suspended over bed.

Presentation technique requires precision over finesse. Identify specific bed with visible fish—target individual beds rather than random casting. Drop bait directly onto bed or just beside it—accuracy matters more than distance. Let bait sink to bed level—usually within inches of bottom. Watch bobber carefully—slightest twitch indicates bite. If no strike within 30 seconds, lift and drop bait again—triggers territorial response from guarding male.

When bobber moves or goes under, set hook immediately—panfish mouths are soft but hooks need setting. Use gentle hookset—firm lift rather than violent jerk. Panfish mouths are delicate—too hard pulls hooks free. Fight fish away from bed quickly—prevents spooking other fish on nearby beds.

Catching fish from beds requires balance. Take reasonable harvest (several fish per bed acceptable), but don't clean out entire colony—leave enough males guarding nests ensuring successful spawn. Many anglers practice "bed rotation"—catch several fish from one bed, move to different bed, return later after fish settle. This spreads pressure across colony rather than decimating individual beds.

Shellcracker target slightly different habitat than bluegill—often bed slightly deeper (3-5 feet versus 2-4), prefer harder bottom (shell over sand), and larger fish on average. Locate shellcracker beds same way as bluegill—look for light circles on bottom. Use same baits and techniques. Shellcrackers grow larger—10-12 inch fish common—so provide better eating per fish.

Best eating size proves 8-10 inches for both species—not too small (takes many for meal), not huge (largest fish are prime spawners). Keep moderate numbers for cooking—10-15 fish makes excellent dinner for 2-3 people when filleted. Release largest fish (over 10 inches)—these are prime genetics producing future generations.

🧭 Where to Fish Ten Mile Creek Reservoir

Ten Mile Creek Reservoir's relatively small size (220 acres) means the entire waterbody can be thoroughly explored in several outings. These areas provide starting points.

Northern Reservoir / Dam Area
Upper section near dam and boat ramp provides deep water adjacent to dam structure. Riprap along dam face creates hard structure—bass, catfish, bluegill all relate to rocks, cast parallel to face working lures along structure, and deeper water (10-15 feet immediately below dam) provides refuge during temperature extremes. Shore fishing access exists at dam—walk from parking area to bank. Shallower coves north of dam hold lily pads and scattered cypress—good shallow bass fishing around vegetation. Creek channel runs close to western bank in this section—work channel edge with Carolina rigs and crankbaits. Less boat traffic than mid-reservoir areas—quieter fishing. Good starting area when launching—productive water immediately accessible from ramp.

Mid-Reservoir / Main Basin
Central reservoir section contains most extensive lily pad fields, scattered cypress trees, and mix of shallow and moderate depths. Lily pads cover significant acreage along both eastern and western shorelines—prime topwater frog fishing spring through fall, flipping opportunities throughout, and isolated pad clumps away from main fields hold big bass. Submerged creek channel winds through center—locate using electronics or systematic probing, productive channel bends exist throughout, and creek intersects with shallow cover creating transition zones. Cypress trees (standing and fallen) provide vertical structure—bass suspend in shade during bright conditions, crappie stack around trees winter and spring, and work trees from multiple angles for thorough coverage. Deepest open water in mid-reservoir—7-10 feet typical, provides comfortable depths summer and winter. Most popular fishing area due to structure diversity and accessibility.

Southern Reservoir / Upper Creeks
Upper sections where Ten Mile Creek enters reservoir feature more creek-like character. Narrower water with defined banks (versus open reservoir feel), more overhanging vegetation along banks, and smaller coves and pockets. Good bass fishing along banks—cast to shaded areas under overhangs, work soft plastics along edges, and topwater at dawn productive. Cypress and other timber more concentrated than open reservoir—provides excellent crappie fishing winter through spring. Shallower average depths than main basin—2-6 feet typical, warms faster in spring (early spawning panfish), cools faster in fall. Less fishing pressure—many anglers focus on main basin, ignoring upper creek sections. Requires navigation care—stumps and shallow bars present obstacles, idle speed essential. Good for exploratory fishing discovering untapped spots.

Eastern Shoreline / Vegetation Edge
Eastern bank features extensive aquatic vegetation—lily pads, peppergrass, cattails creating edge habitat. Work entire shoreline systematically—fish love edge between vegetation and open water, cast parallel to vegetation keeping lure in zone, and use weedless presentations minimizing snags. Isolated cypress trees dot eastern shore—target each tree specifically (bass and crappie relate to timber), work multiple angles around each tree, and GPS mark productive trees for return visits. Pockets and indentations in vegetation line—bass stage in these features waiting to ambush prey, cast into pocket then work out, and often multiple bass in single pocket. Morning fishing particularly good—eastern exposure gets early sun warming water, and bass feed actively during warming trend. Shallow coves along eastern shore good for bedding bluegill—check in April-May for spawning colonies.

Western Shoreline / Creek Channel Access
Western bank provides closest access to submerged creek channel in multiple locations. Channel runs near western shore through much of reservoir—allows anchoring close to shore then fishing channel, reduces repositioning needs, and provides reference points for channel location. Scattered vegetation along western shore (less extensive than eastern side)—offers variety from dense eastern vegetation, some sections open allowing other techniques (crankbaits, search baits), and bass still present using available cover. Points and indentations along western bank—bass stage at these irregularities, work thoroughly from multiple angles, and combine with nearby channel creating transition zones. Access varies along western shore—some private property restricts shoreline access, respect boundaries and fish from water. Generally receives less pressure than more vegetated eastern shore—bass sometimes more aggressive from reduced fishing pressure.

Shallow Coves (Multiple Locations)
Several shallow coves indent reservoir perimeter—protected areas typically 1-4 feet deep. These coves warm fastest in spring—bluegill and shellcracker spawn here earliest (check late March-April), bass move in during pre-spawn feeding, and baitfish concentrate in comfortable temperatures. Peak lily pad growth in coves—extensive surface coverage creates excellent frog fishing, open pockets within pads hold feeding bass, and edges between pads and open water are prime zones. Coves also cool fastest in fall—first areas experiencing temperature drops, triggering bass feeding as they sense seasonal change. Can be very shallow—approach carefully watching for stumps and sandbars, kayaks navigate easily where boats struggle, and wading possible in some coves (firm bottom areas). Afternoon winds make coves calmer—protected from prevailing winds by surrounding terrain, allowing fishing when main reservoir gets rough.

Grass Beds and Hydrilla Lines (Seasonal)
Submerged vegetation (primarily hydrilla when present) creates underwater structure distinct from surface lily pads. Hydrilla beds visible as darker areas on surface (plant tops near surface), sometimes shows on electronics (thick return), and usually 2-6 feet depth. Bass relate to hydrilla edges—cruise along edges watching for prey, ambush from within vegetation, and suspend over beds during low light. Work edges with lipless crankbaits—rip through vegetation creating reaction strikes, deflects off plants triggering instinctive hits, and covers water quickly locating active fish. Carolina rigs with soft plastics—drag across top of vegetation, occasionally drop into pockets, and slow presentation triggers bites. Spinnerbaits along edges—bulky profile, flash and vibration attract from distance.

Hydrilla growth varies—water management occasionally treats excessive vegetation (contact Fort Pierce Utilities for treatment schedule), post-treatment die-back reduces fishing quality temporarily (decomposing vegetation lowers oxygen), but regrowth cycle begins immediately. Winter die-back natural—cooler temperatures reduce plant growth, but enough vegetation persists for productive fishing.

Reservoir Size: 220 acres; approximately 2 miles long; 500-800 feet wide typical
Location: Western Fort Pierce, St. Lucie County, Florida (Treasure Coast)
Fishing Type: Freshwater reservoir; no-wake zone; kayak, small boat, limited shore access
Primary Access: Single-lane boat ramp on western shore (Glades Cut-Off Road)
Target Species: Largemouth bass, bluegill, shellcracker, crappie, catfish
Best Techniques: Flipping lily pads (bass), creek channel fishing (quality bass), spring bedding (panfish)
Average Depth: 4-8 feet; deeper channel 10-15 feet; shallow coves 1-4 feet
Character: Quiet, no-wake reservoir—peaceful alternative to Treasure Coast's saltwater fisheries
Florida Freshwater Fishing License: Required ages 16+
Guided Trips: $250-$400 half-day; local bass guides know reservoir patterns
Ideal Watercraft: Kayaks, canoes, jon boats, small bass boats (under 20 feet); no-wake enforced
Nearest Major Airports: Palm Beach International (PBI) - 50 miles south; Orlando International (MCO) - 90 miles north
Nearest Towns: Fort Pierce—full amenities, tackle shops, bait shops, restaurants
For More Information: FWC: MyFWC.com; Fort Pierce Utilities Authority (water level info); Local tackle shops: Fishing Headquarters (Port Salerno), Snook Nook (Jensen Beach)
Special Note: No-wake restriction strictly enforced—idle speed only throughout entire reservoir; excellent for quiet, family-friendly fishing experiences.