Peacock Bass - Urban Miami

Peacock Bass out of a Miami Canal

Miami is a vibrant city that's thriving with life and culture.

Little do many people know, that as well as having stellar cuisine, beautiful beaches, and a killer nightlife, Miami is a primo destination for targeting exotic fish species.

At first glance, you'd never guess what is swimming around in Miami's waters. Look closely in any of the hundreds of canals along the streets, and you may spot fish ranging from native largemouth bass to giant Amazonian catfish and grass carp. Peacock Bass are thriving in the inner city waters of Miami. These fish, native to the Amazon, were introduced to prey upon other exotic fish that had taken up residence in the canals and were putting pressure on native fish species. Peacock Bass populations exploded and are now self-sustaining. The fish pictured are naturally reproduced offspring, generations from their originally stocked ancestors.

Butterfly Peacocks and Papokas are the most predominant species around, while Speckled Peacocks are caught on occasion. Peacock Bass fight insanely hard, much harder than Largemouth Bass. They are simple to catch in most instances as well. The most effective method to catch them is to walk the canal banks until you spot a Peacock. Pitching small jigheads trailed with soft plastic minnow imitations, spoons, and live bait such as shiners will all draw aggressive strikes. The key is to cast directly on top of them to trigger a reaction bite.

When in Miami, pack a rod. Peacock Bass are abundant and well worth the effort. You should have very little problem finding one willing to eat in short order. Target culverts, drain pipes, and shaded areas where Peacocks can easily ambush prey. Keep your eyes peeled along the Miami canals, The Peacock Bass are lurking in abundance.