I would forget about getting access, plenty of public waters to fish. I pass plenty of private lakes (200 - 500 acres) on the way to a lake i fish, and i  have never seen a boat fishing on any of them. Would i like to? You know it. It just aint gonna happen....

NOT SUGGESTING BREAKING THE LAW! But ghillie suits are wonderful for night excursions, such as testing waters. But it's like they're built to tangle in fences and treble hooks.😄

Seriously, if it's behind two fences , I wouldn't waste your time. 

With Christmas so close you could bring her a plate of cookies and just say as part of your Church you wanted to reach out to neighbors who may need a helping hand this year. Give her your information and see if she takes you up on it. You might end up working and not getting anything other than helping her out but thats probably the least pressing way to get your foot in the door.

 

Only been to Florida once so I cant comment on available water but it sounds like you have a tons of options other than there if it doesnt pan out.

If you really have to fish this particular lake, you may have to do a significant amount of leg work.  

 

Try and find out everything you can about the lake, and the owner, including past history of the lake.  A previous owner may have information on the fishing, and might be able to introduce you to the owner. 

 

Before meeting the owner try and find out as much as you can without making the owner, or anyone else uncomfortable with you inquiries.  You don't want them to hear someone is asking a bunch of questions, but you do want to find out as much as you can about the owner and their friends.

 

You may find that they have relatives, that play football with your kid, or you both have a common interest in antique cars.  Whatever the connection, is it will be worthwhile information.  

 

Once you have done your research, it is time to meet.  I wouldn't bring up the fishing at the lake right away.  Talk about your shared interests, then work your way to the main goal.  Make sure you dress and talk like the owner.  If they wear overalls, don't show up in a suite, or if they don't wear casual clothes then neither should you.  Do not mention politics or religion, unless they do, and then you better be one hundred percent on their side of the fence.  My Momma always said a little white lie won't hurt if it can help catch you a giant bass.

 

Once you get permission, your work is not done.  I have seen many times when an owner said he gave permission to a nice young man and after that man never even had time to stop and have a drink.  He didn't even say high when he saw him at the hardware store.  They are giving you permission, because they feel you are one of them, act like it.  You can never be too busy to spend time with a friend that owns a lake.  Don't be a stranger after you cast the first line.  Christmas cards, and gifts, are always welcome as making sure to say happy birthday.  Do not bring friends to the lake unless the owner gives permission.  I wouldn't even ask for permission to bring friends.  If they happen to bring up the subject, then mention you wouldn't mind having a fishing buddy come along.  The biggest complaint I have heard from landowners is.  I didn't mind letting the one man fish my pond, but then he had 10 friends that wanted to fish.  The one fellow seems nice enough, but I don't trust his friends.  If they have a relative who like to fish, offer to take them fishing, and make sure they catch the most and biggest fish.

 

This can take time, and be more work than it is worth, but you may end up finding a new friend, and a great place to go fishing.

 

You must do your research, do not just walk up and knock on the door.  As any trial lawyer will tell you, be prepared, and never ask a question, you don't already know the answer too.  The way to find out the answers to the questions, is do a little research. 

 

 

@FloridaFishinFool did the research. I know all about the lady and her property now. It’s amazing what is available for anyone to find out. 
Some of you advise giving up. I will after a couple attempts. But this lake would be so convenient for me to fish . I am better than average at reading ponds and it looks really good.

There is another very similar lake that’s actually nearer to my house. I’ve fished it twice, and plan another trip there soon. It’s public but I’ve never seen another person fishing there. I caught 7-8 fish there the 2 times I fished it, the biggest was 3 1/2… so I have options…😊

Good luck Mike, i hope you get in.