For the first time in two years, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers began slowly releasing water from Lake Okeechobee.

Water levels have topped 15 feet because of recent tropical storms. The levels could be okay as long no more rain is dumped in the lake in coming weeks.

Randy Smith with the South Florida Water Management Agency said this presents different challenges.

"From a water supply perspective, this is a lot better that we have had in the last couple of years," Smith said.

Engineers have begun opening gates that will send polluted waters down the rivers on both coasts, but ease pressure on its aging dike.

The high water levels have been great for boating, but not so great for fishing.

Vinnie Zollo and his friend Carmine Polito went out Wednesday morning for a quick fishing trip.

"The perfect level is about 13 feet cause it is harder to fish when the water is this high,” Zollo said.

Carmine Polito said it’s better than the alternative.

“Last year, it was 9 feet, so think about that. Miami will have water to drink this year," Polito said.

While water levels are high, federal engineers insist that it is not near dangerous levels, saying studies suggest it's safe up to 18 feet.

Still, with more rainy season ahead, engineers want a little room for more rainfall.