Traditionally, a Florida vacation would include a visit to Walt Disney World Resorts Y Universal Studies. Other days may be filled with trips to the many other attractions and things to do in and around Orlando, that time soon passes and you find yourself coming home in no time. So what if you had time for a slower pace of life, time to pass the hours, and time to completely relax without running here, there, and everywhere?

It is possible to have the best of both worlds. Sure, enjoy the attractions and theme parks, but don’t forget to relax your mind too and if you like the great outdoors, why not enjoy fishing in Florida? Spending a few hours alone or with the family in tow enjoying this popular pastime can make a difference in how rested and relaxed you feel when it’s finally time to pack up and head home.

Florida is a fisherman’s and women’s paradise and is often called “the fishing capital of the world” due to its vast resources and responsible management. The diversity of sport fish, habitats, great weather, and year-round fishing create the perfect environment that’s hard to beat. Listed below are some of the best places to explore for those interested in a vacation off the beaten path:

Lake Okeechobee is the second largest lake within the United States is Lake Okeechobee in Florida. The “Big O” has some of the best freshwater fishing and is home to several species of fish including largemouth bass, crappie, bream, and bluegill. Popular fishing spots in or around the lake include:

Species of bass fish can be seen and caught on the flats extending from the boat lock on Henry Creek into Chancey Bay. At Nubblin Slough, they can be caught all year round; The area behind Eagle Bay Island is excellent for catching all species of Panfish; From January to April, Eagle Bay is the prime big mouth region as the lake is at its peak; y The rocky area north of North Lake Shoal (Kings Bar) is abundant with bluegill species.

Located east of the city of Lake Wales, in the heart of Osceola County, Lake Kissimmee is one of the best large-mouth lakes in the United States. One of the largest reservoirs on the Kissimmee River in Central Florida, Lake Kissimmee has been restored in recent years with the introduction of ecologically friendly vegetation. Some of the popular fishing and tourist spots on or around the lake include the Highway 60 bridge area that extends to the Shady Oaks Fish Camp, the deepwater break on the east side of Brahma Island, the southeast corner of Brahma Island, the cut behind Brahma Island, which runs between Rocky Point and Otter Slough, and the westernmost point of Brahma Island and the small cove ironically named Polluted Waters.

Fishing in Florida is not just about lakes and rivers: Mosquito Lagoon, a fishing estuary located just 45 minutes from Orlando, is one of the best places for beginners and expert anglers to fish for redfish, sea trout, snook, tarpon and more. The mangroves here provide a great hiding place for snook and redfish can be easily seen. This is also an excellent place to observe dolphins, manatees, and many other marine animals and flora in their natural environment.

Pier Fishing in Florida: On the West Coast, Jacksonville and St. Petersburg have many piers where fishing is allowed. For those who prefer to bask in the sun and enjoy good food and the company of friends away from tour guides, boars and GPS sounds, spotted pier fishing spots in Florida are wonderful options.

Other great Florida fishing options include Lake George, Lake Toho, Seminole River/Lake (near the town of Chattahoochee), Talquin Lake/Ochlockonee River, Lake Weir (located in southern Marion County near Ocala) and Lake Monroe in Sanford, but there’s a hidden secret you may not be familiar with.

Florida offers great fishing options when you rent a vacation villa or vacation home. Many vacation homes are located in areas where there are small lakes to fish in, and these vacation rentals are great options when you’re looking to control your budget. The best thing about them is that you don’t have to compromise on any of the 5-star luxuries you’re used to, as most vacation homes have a private pool, game rooms, a large kitchen, comfortable living rooms, multiple bedrooms and the ability for each member of the family to do exactly what they want. Fishing in Florida can be fun for the whole family and you’ll be spoiled for choice when the call to “take me fishing” is heard.