In this article, you will be taken on a fishing adventure in a breathtakingly clear lake that is home to trophy-sized bass. The video captures the thrill of RV camping near the lake and the excitement of exploring the fishery. Part 1 of the series introduces Merritt’s Mill Pond in Marianna, Florida, known for its crystal clear spring water, large bluegill, and gigantic largemouth bass. The article highlights the visit to a local bait and tackle shop, the settlement in an RV near the lake, and the plans to rent kayaks for a closer fishing experience. The author also mentions the frustration of capturing the targeted bass on their beds and the purchase of new kayaks from Walmart. The article concludes with the challenges of fishing in crystal clear water and the abundance of excellent fishing spots in the lake, leaving readers eager to learn more about this fishing adventure.

Getting Acquainted with the Clear Lake

Introduction to Merritt’s Mill Pond, Florida

Welcome to Merritt’s Mill Pond in Marianna, Florida! This stunning location has been on my bucket list for years, and I’m finally here to explore its crystal clear spring water, large bluegill population, and the infamous gigantic largemouth bass that thrive in its waters. Just a quick YouTube search of Merritt’s Mill Pond will show you countless videos of anglers reeling in massive fish, and I can’t wait to experience it for myself.

Characteristics of the Location

Merritt’s Mill Pond is known for its incredibly clean and clear water. The visibility is unlike anything I’ve ever seen before – you can see straight to the bottom of the lake. The clarity of the water not only adds to the beauty of the surroundings but also enhances the fishing experience. Additionally, the lake is home to a healthy population of bluegill, and if the old videos are anything to go by, they used to be world-class in size. But the real stars of the show are the enormous largemouth bass that inhabit the lake. These fish have grown to legendary proportions, and catching one is the ultimate challenge for any angler.

Bountiful Giant Bass and Bluegill Presence

Merritt’s Mill Pond is renowned for its abundance of giant bass. Anglers from all over the country travel here hoping to catch a trophy-sized largemouth. The crystal clear water makes it easier to spot these behemoths, but it also adds an extra layer of difficulty when it comes to enticing them to bite.

Not only is the bass fishing exceptional, but the bluegill population in Merritt’s Mill Pond is also impressive. These tasty panfish have historically been a favorite target for anglers, and catching a dinner-sized bluegill is always a rewarding experience.

Kick-off of the RV Camping Adventure

Arrival at Florida Caverns RV Park

To fully immerse ourselves in this fishing adventure, we decided to rent an RV and stay at the Florida Caverns RV Park, conveniently located near Merritt’s Mill Pond. It’s the perfect place to base ourselves and gives us easy access to the lake. The RV park is nestled in a beautiful natural setting and provides all the amenities we need for a comfortable stay.

Settling into the RV Near the Lake

After a smooth drive, we arrived at the RV park and were greeted by the friendly staff. We quickly settled into our RV, which is cozy and equipped with all the essentials. With breathtaking views just outside our door, we instantly felt at home and couldn’t wait to begin our fishing adventure.

Exploration Plans for the Fishery and Kayak Rental

Our main goal for this trip is to explore as much of the fishery as possible. We’re planning to fish from the bank and also rent some kayaks to get closer to the action. The crystal clear waters of Merritt’s Mill Pond offer a unique opportunity to observe the underwater world and connect with the fish on a different level. We’re excited to cast our lines and see what this remarkable fishery has to offer.

Exploring the Local Stores

Visit to the Bait and Tackle Shop

After getting settled in, we decided to venture out and explore the local stores. Our first stop was a small bait and tackle shop. Walking through the doors, we were immediately greeted by the familiar scent of fishing equipment and the anticipation of what we might find. The shop had a decent selection of fishing gear, and we made sure to stock up on essentials like hooks and bobbers. Little did we know that this was just the beginning of our shopping adventure.

Discovery of a Unique Outdoor Store

As we continued our search for fishing supplies, we stumbled upon a hidden gem – an outdoor store that was unlike anything we had ever seen before. Tucked away inside what seemed like a regular gas station was a fishing section that led to something much larger. As we rounded the corner, the store seemingly went on forever. It transformed into a camper’s paradise, complete with a gun shop, archery store, and even a pottery barn. We couldn’t believe our luck, and we spent hours exploring all the different sections of the store.

Introducing Discount Code LOJO

Before we move on, I want to share a special treat with you. During our visit to the unique outdoor store, we stumbled upon an incredible offer. If you use the discount code LOJO, you can get 10% off your purchase. So if you’re in need of any outdoor gear, don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to save some money.

Commencing the Fishing Expedition

Kayaking and Fishing at the Lake

With our supplies sorted and kayaks rented, it was time to hit the water. We launched our kayaks and paddled out onto the crystal clear lake, surrounded by breathtaking views. The tranquility of the water and the anticipation of catching a big fish filled the air. The adventure had truly begun.

Spotting Beds and Attempts to Catch Bass

As we kayaked along, we couldn’t help but notice the bass beds scattered throughout the lake. The clear water allowed us to see every detail, and it was fascinating to observe the bass guarding their nests. We made several attempts to catch these protective fish, but they proved to be quite elusive. Though the experience was challenging, it only fueled our determination to succeed.

Discovering the Challenge with Targeted Bass

Throughout the day, we encountered numerous bass, and though we had some exciting moments, we struggled to hook them. These bass were intelligent and cautious, making it difficult to entice them to bite. It was a humbling experience, but we were determined to hone our skills and crack the code of catching these elusive giants.

A New Purchase and a New Adventure

Buying New Kayaks from Walmart

After a few days of fishing and exploring the lake in our rented kayaks, we decided to invest in our own. So we headed to Walmart and picked out two brand new kayaks that suited our needs. Having our own kayaks not only provided us with the freedom to explore whenever we wanted but also added a sense of ownership and excitement to our fishing adventures.

A Fresh Start with Fishing on the Lake

With our new kayaks ready to hit the water, we set out on our first fishing expedition. It felt like a fresh start, and we were filled with hope and optimism. We paddled to different areas of the lake, searching for the perfect fishing spots and casting our lines with anticipation.

Encounters with Big Carp and Exploration of Different Lake Areas

While exploring the lake, we encountered some impressive carp. These massive fish seemed out of place in such clear water, but they provided an unexpected thrill. As we continued to explore, we discovered hidden pockets of the lake that held promise for abundant fishing opportunities. We cast our lines into these uncharted waters, eager to see what surprises they held.

Exploring Techniques to Attract Bass

Trial with Live Bait

In our pursuit of the elusive bass, we decided to experiment with different fishing techniques. One such method was using live bait. We rigged up our lines with live bait, hoping the enticing movement would attract the attention of the bass. While we did have some bites, we soon realized that live bait wasn’t as effective as we had hoped in the crystal clear water.

Possible use of Shiners to Attract Bass

Another technique we considered was using shiners as bait. These lively fish are known to be natural prey for bass and can be a great way to entice them to bite. We discussed the pros and cons of using shiners and made a mental note to give it a try during our next fishing excursion.

Observation on the Effectiveness of Live Bait

After our experiments with live bait, we reflected on its effectiveness in the clear waters of Merritt’s Mill Pond. While it did produce some bites, it became clear that the bass were more wary and discerning compared to fish in murkier waters. We realized we needed to rely on other strategies and techniques to overcome this challenge and increase our chances of hooking a big bass.

Fishing in Restricted Waters

Issue with No Trespassing Sign

During one of our fishing trips, we came across a no trespassing sign placed on a tree in a seemingly public area of the lake. This raised some concerns and questions about the legality and legitimacy of the sign. We wondered if it was possible for someone to place a sign in the water and restrict access to certain areas of the lake.

Concern on Restriction with Kayaking

The presence of the sign raised concerns about kayaking in the restricted area. We debated whether it was legal and safe to venture beyond the designated point. While we were tempted to explore further, we decided to err on the side of caution and respect the supposedly restricted waters.

Debate on Legality of Placing the Sign in the Water

The sight of the no trespassing sign sparked a lively debate among us. We questioned the legality and ethics of placing a sign in the water, which is traditionally considered a public space. We speculated on the intentions behind the sign and whether it was even enforceable. It served as a reminder that even in picturesque fishing locations like Merritt’s Mill Pond, there are disputes and challenges that arise.

Experiencing Unexpected Events

Jumping into the Waters

While exploring the lake, we decided to take a break from fishing and cool off in the inviting waters. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision, but the crystal clear and refreshing lake beckoned us to jump in. We embraced the opportunity to immerse ourselves fully in the beauty and serenity of our surroundings.

Frightening Encounter with Alligators

As we enjoyed our dip in the lake, we had an unexpected encounter with one of the lake’s inhabitants – alligators. These prehistoric creatures emerged from the depths, reminding us that we were in their territory. It was a thrilling but intimidating experience, and we quickly retreated to the safety of our kayaks.

Thrill of Finding a Human Depth Finder

During one of our fishing expeditions, we stumbled upon an unlikely treasure – a human depth finder. This unique device, which is typically used to measure the depth of water, had found its way into the lake. It was a delightful and somewhat comical discovery, showcasing the unexpected surprises that can occur during outdoor adventures.

Reflecting on the Bass Fishing Experience

Challenges and Satisfaction of Fishing in Crystal Clear Water

Fishing in Merritt’s Mill Pond proved to be a unique and challenging experience. The crystal clear water, while breathtakingly beautiful, added an extra layer of difficulty to the fishing process. The bass, with their heightened senses, proved to be more elusive than anticipated. However, the challenges only served to amplify the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment when we did manage to catch a fish.

Account of Exceptional Fishing Spots

Throughout our fishing expeditions, we discovered numerous exceptional fishing spots in Merritt’s Mill Pond. From rocky areas to grassy patches, the lake was teeming with potential hotspots. Each location held its own secrets and required different techniques to succeed. We relished the opportunity to explore these hidden gems and learn more about the intricacies of the lake.

References to Popular Fishing Channels and Social Media

As we navigated the clear waters of Merritt’s Mill Pond, we couldn’t help but think of the fishing community at large. We reminisced about our favorite fishing channels on YouTube and how they had inspired us to embark on this adventure. We also discussed the importance of sharing our experiences on social media, connecting with fellow anglers, and spreading the joy of fishing to a wider audience.

Conclusion: Overall Kayak Fishing Experience

Evaluating the First Part of the Adventure

As we conclude Part One of our kayak fishing adventure in Merritt’s Mill Pond, we can’t help but reflect on the incredible experiences we’ve had so far. From the breathtaking beauty of the crystal clear water to the thrill of encountering giant bass, each moment has been filled with excitement and wonder. We’ve faced challenges and learned valuable lessons, all while immersing ourselves in the joy of fishing.

Preview of Part Two of the Series

But don’t fret! This is just the beginning of our fishing adventure. In Part Two of the series, we will continue to explore the wonders of Merritt’s Mill Pond. We’ll share more fishing stories, techniques, and adventures as we strive to catch the elusive giant bass. So stay tuned and get ready for more excitement and surprises.

Signing Off and Expressing Excitement for Upcoming Experiences

As we sign off for now, I want to express my excitement for the adventures that lie ahead. Merritt’s Mill Pond has already proven to be a mecca for fishing enthusiasts, offering unparalleled beauty and remarkable fishing opportunities. I can’t wait to see what the future holds and share every moment with you. So stay tuned, stay hooked, and let’s continue this incredible fishing journey together!