Chapmanfield Park - Saltwater Lake

One of my favorite places to go kayak fishing is the saltwater lake in Chapmanfield Park in Pinecrest. It's right in the middle of civilization yet remote enough to have a good time and catch fish. Although you can reach the lake from Chapman Field park by walking the long dirt trail it is very inconvenient for someone carrying a kayak and equipment. I tend to put in Snapper Creek canal at the water gate on 57th Avenue. There's enough of a sloped opening there to drop in a kayak and you can leave your car parked there without any problems.





From here it's about 3 miles to the lake. You first have to row straight out to the ocean then make a right towards the huge beautiful house. You have to cross the channel going into Gables by the sea. Stick to the edge of the mangroves and you wont miss the creek going into the lake. The lake is full of sea trout who love to teas you as they jump all around you, but the best fishing is right at the entrance of the creek. If you manage to sneak up and anker quietly you might see huge snooks swimming under you. There's also tons of mangrove snappers who will bite anything you throw at them.


Finding the Lake can be a little tricky since the creek splits several times on the way in and only one way is clear enough to make it through. My advice is to follow the path with the strongest tidal current. If you make a mistake don't worry. It will quickly become evident you went the wrong way when you can't get past downed mangroves. Don't force it. If a trail is bloked turn around and go down the next one.

In the center of the lake there's a little island that's a bird haven. In the winter you will be surprised by the overwelming number of birds nesting in it. THe entire island gets painted white by the birds.

When you come out onto the lake, if you make a right you will find a small opening where you can stop and stretch your legs. That's the dirt trail that leads back to Chapman Field. If you feel adventures you can drag your kayak over the trail and put in on the other side. Follow that creek all the way out to the ocean then make a left to get back to Snapper Creek canal.

If you plan on making the trip remember to take lots of water and keep the area clean.