Okeechobee is located northwest of West Palm Beach, and near the Kissimmee River and Lake Okeechobee. It is known as the “Speckled Perch Capital of the World” and the “Gateway to South Florida.” Freshwater lakes are plentiful in this area, and anglers come from all over the world, year 'round, to catch bass, black crappie, and catfish, as well as the famous speckled perch.

Lake Okeechobee is the largest lake in Florida, and the second largest freshwater lake in the U.S., covering nearly half a million acres. It is part of the “Okeechobee Waterway” which runs from Fort Myers, on the west coast, to Stuart, on the east coast of Florida. Fishing isn't the only attraction at Lake Okeechobee, and other activities include boating, swimming, airboats, water skiing, hiking, and wildlife-watching are also popular.

Each March, the town of Okeechobee holds a “Speckled Perch Festival & Arts and Crafts Fair,” and Labor Day is host to a three-day festival and rodeo. Okeechobee is a lovely community, rich in history and cultural sites, including the Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation. So, when you tire of the crowds and want to explore, step off the beaten path with a visit to beautiful Okeechobee in central Florida.

CLICK HERE to read more:  http://www.thepalmbeachtimes.com/
Army Corp of Engineers Recreation Guide  http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/
Scenic Okeechobee  http://www.dep.state.fl.us/
Virtual Okeechobee  http://sofia.usgs.gov/virtual_tour/lakeokee/
Main Street Okeechobee  http://www.mainstreetokeechobee.com/