Three Fisheries, One Port St. Lucie Home Base

March 25, 2025 | Read Time: 4 minutes

One reason fishing has such a strong hold on the Treasure Coast is that changing the kind of water does not require leaving the region. From a home base in the Port St. Lucie area, anglers can move between Atlantic offshore water, the Indian River Lagoon and Lake Okeechobee, each offering a different set of species, conditions and techniques. That range makes fishing less like one vacation activity and more like part of the geography of everyday life.

Offshore, the Target List Changes Quickly

South of Port St. Lucie, Stuart’s reputation as the Sailfish Capital of the World is closely tied to billfish found beyond the inlet. Farther north off Fort Pierce, the Gulf Stream moves closer to shore, putting mahi-mahi, wahoo and blackfin tuna within reach of offshore anglers. The result is not one uniform fishery, but a coastline where launch point, depth and target species can change the character of the trip. The Eight-Mile Reef, about 8 miles offshore of Fort Pierce, is known for kingfish and snapper, while the Loran Tower Ledge, in waters 150-250 feet deep, offers a shot at monster swordfish. Whether it’s live bait, trolling, or bottom fishing, the bite is always on in these waters.

Big Bass and More at Lake Okeechobee

Just 36 miles west of Port St. Lucie lies the Bass Capital of the World, Lake Okeechobee. Spanning 730 square miles with over 135 miles of shoreline, it offers some of the best freshwater fishing in the U.S. The deep drop-offs are prime spots for hooking massive largemouth bass, along with striped bass and catfish. For bluegill, crappie, and redear sunfish, the shallow grass flats’ warm, sheltered waters are the place to be. To get the most out of the experience, take a boat or kayak with a professional guide who knows the waters, or book a campground for an early start and turn it into a weekend of trophy fishing.

Indian River Lagoon’s Rich Biodiversity

Stretching 156 miles from Jupiter to Palm Beach County, the Indian River Lagoon is one of the most diverse estuaries in North America. The brackish waterway is home to over 4,000 species of plants and animals. Along the Treasure Coast, top fishing spots include the Jensen Beach Causeway, where snook and sea trout are plentiful around the structure. Bear Point in Fort Pierce is another hotspot, attracting redfish and trout thanks to cooler waters that bring in bait. For a real challenge, drift the Fort Pierce Inlet for a chance at giant bull reds. Be sure to bring plenty of leaders, however, as these powerful fish are challenging to land.

Catching a Wylder Way of Life

With an abundance of fishing, boating, and beachcombing opportunities year-round, many vacationers to Florida’s Treasure Coast have decided to become staycationers. New housing options in the region make finding that perfect Florida home easier than ever. One standout community in Port St. Lucie, Wylder, has “reeled in” homebuyers with its variety of neighborhoods.

Wylder’s Neighborhoods Have Moved Forward Since 2025

Brystol at Wylder now offers single-family homes from the upper $300s by Dream Finders Homes, Lennar and Meritage Homes. Brystol North and South each have their own clubhouse environments, with additional pickleball, trails, lakefront recreation areas, parks and other shared outdoor amenities available throughout the community.

Four Seasons at Wylder is also active, with models open daily and current pricing from the mid-$300s. The 55+ neighborhood offers nine ranch-style single-family designs and one villa design, along with a clubhouse, fitness center, pickleball and resident programming.

Glynlea Country Club has undergone the biggest change from the original article. The Jim Furyk Signature Course and Toptracer Aquatic Driving Range are now open, designer-decorated model homes are available to tour, and new homes by Lennar, Perry Homes and Dream Finders Homes are selling from the $400s to over $1 million.

For current neighborhood releases and home information, register with Wylder or follow the community on Facebook and Instagram.