FISHING

Butch’s Hideaway RV Park offers direct access to one of Central Florida’s best-kept secrets—Lake Rosalie, a 4,500-acre freshwater lake known for its excellent bass and crappie fishing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a casual hobbyist, you’ll find this spring-fed lake to be abundant, peaceful, and ready for exploration. With two private docks, including one that’s lighted for night fishing, and a concrete boat ramp within the park, fishing is more than an activity here—it’s part of the lifestyle.

Lake Rosalie connects to the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, one of Florida’s most productive fisheries. It draws locals, traveling anglers, and seasonal visitors looking to hook trophy-sized largemouth bass, slab crappie, and bream. The calm, scenic water paired with the convenience of lakeside accommodations makes Butch’s Hideaway a top destination for fishing trips in Florida.

Lake Rosalie is teeming with largemouth bass, and guests of Butch’s Hideaway are often surprised at the size and number of catches made directly from the docks or a short paddle offshore. Bass anglers use a mix of wild shiners, artificial lures, soft plastics, and topwater rigs to target fish hiding in submerged grass beds and along drop-offs.

Spring is the most popular time for bass fishing, particularly during the spawning season when fish move into shallow waters. However, bass can be caught year-round thanks to the lake’s relatively stable temperature and water conditions. Evenings and early mornings tend to be the most active feeding times, and the park’s lighted dock offers a rare opportunity for nighttime success.

Crappie (also known as speckled perch or specks) are a favorite among guests for their accessibility and taste. Winter and early spring are the prime seasons, and anglers often use live minnows, jigs, or small crankbaits to target schools near deeper water or structure. Crappie are known to school heavily around submerged brush piles and dock pilings, making the Hideaway’s dock a perfect spot.

For families or new anglers, bream fishing can be a fun and rewarding option. Bluegill and shellcracker are plentiful in the warmer months and bite on simple setups using worms or crickets. These species offer a great way for kids or beginners to enjoy the water with a high chance of success.