Peacock Bass

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Peacock Bass can be found in a variety of freshwater bodies such as canals, lakes, and rivers.
Found in impoundments and man-made retention ponds. They are native to South America but have been introduced to the Florida region.
Lake Okeechobee: Known as one of the best destinations for peacock bass fishing in Florida, Lake Okeechobee provides ample opportunities to catch these prized fish.
Miami Canals: The extensive canal system in Miami, such as the C-100, C-4, and C-9 canals, is home to healthy populations of peacock bass.
Everglades National Park: The expansive wetlands of the Everglades offer excellent peacock bass fishing, particularly in areas like Tamiami Trail and the L-67 canal.
Lake Ida: Located near Delray Beach, Lake Ida is a popular spot for targeting peacock bass, along with other freshwater species.
Lake Osborne: Situated in Palm Beach County, Lake Osborne is known for its thriving peacock bass population, attracting anglers from near and far.
Lake Trafford: Located in Collier County, Lake Trafford is another notable destination for peacock bass fishing, offering scenic views and abundant fish.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Peacock Bass prefer warm water, with a temperature range of 78-85 degrees. They tend to congregate in areas of weed beds, logs, stumps, and brush piles. They also will use structure such as logs, boulders, and undercut banks for cover.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring, as the water warms up, peacock bass become more active and move to shallower areas for spawning. Look for them near shorelines, submerged vegetation, and around structures. They can be targeted using a variety of lures and baits.

SUMMER

In the summer, peacock bass seek shade and cooler areas to escape the heat. They may be found near structures, such as bridges and docks, where they can find cover. Fishing during early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler can increase your chances of success.

FALL

As fall arrives, peacock bass feed aggressively to prepare for the spawning season. They may move to slightly deeper waters but can still be found near structures and cover. Focus on areas with good water flow and use lures that imitate small baitfish or insects.

WINTER

In the winter months, peacock bass can become less active, but they can still be caught. They tend to be more sluggish and may seek deeper areas with stable water temperatures. Slow presentations and lures that mimic injured baitfish can be effective during this season.

Topwater Fishing

How: Peacock bass are known for their explosive topwater strikes, making topwater lures a thrilling choice. Use poppers, prop baits, or walk-the-dog style lures to create surface disturbance and attract attention. Cast near structure or along the edges of weed beds and retrieve the lure with a steady or twitching action.
Gear: Rods: Medium to medium-heavy spinning or casting rods. Reels: Spinning or casting reels with a smooth drag system. Line: 10-20lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 20-30lb test fluorocarbon or monofilament leaders with a length of 2-4 feet. Lures: Topwater poppers, prop baits, walk-the-dog lures.

Jigging

How: Jigging can be effective for targeting peacock bass, especially when fishing in deeper water or vertical structures. Use vertical jigging lures or bucktail jigs with a quick up-and-down motion near submerged structure or drop-offs. Vary the jigging speed and depth to find the most productive zone.
Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning or casting rods. Reels: Spinning or casting reels with a smooth drag system. Line: 15-30lb test braided line. Leaders: 20-40lb test fluorocarbon or monofilament leaders with a length of 2-4 feet. Lures: Vertical jigging lures, bucktail jigs.

Live Bait

How: Peacock bass are known to aggressively strike live bait, such as small fish or shrimp. Use a float or Carolina rig to present the live bait near structure or along weed edges. Allow the bait to swim naturally or twitch it to entice strikes. Keep an eye on your float for any movement or sudden disappearance.
Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning or casting rods. Reels: Spinning or casting reels with a smooth drag system. Line: 10-20lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 20-30lb test fluorocarbon or monofilament leaders with a length of 2-4 feet. Hooks: Size 2/0 to 4/0 live bait hooks.

Fly Fishing

How: Fly fishing for peacock bass is a thrilling and challenging experience. Use large streamers or poppers that imitate baitfish or frogs. Target areas with structure or along the edges of weed beds. Cast accurately and retrieve the fly with short, quick strips to trigger aggressive strikes.