Miami Peacock Bass Fishing
Visual canal fishing for the only US peacock bass population — five minutes from downtown.
Why Miami Peacock Bass Fishing Is Different
The peacock bass you can catch in a Miami canal isn't a Florida native — it's an Amazon import the state introduced in 1984 to control invasive tilapia. It worked. South Florida is now the only place in the United States where you can catch wild peacock bass, and Miami canals are the heart of that fishery.
What makes Miami special is the access. You're often 5 to 15 minutes from a downtown hotel or a Brickell apartment, on water clear enough to see the fish before you cast. Most of our Miami trips are sight fishing — drop a live shiner or work a top-water and watch the strike happen. It's the closest thing to bonefishing we have in fresh water.
Trips run year-round. The strongest peacock bite is late November through April when water temperatures are stable. Summer is still productive, especially first thing in the morning or late evening.
How a Miami Trip Works
Most Miami clients book a half-day. Four hours on the water is the right window for a working canal day — enough time to cover several stretches of water and find fish. Full days work well if you want to mix peacock bass with largemouth, or if you want to fish through both the morning and afternoon bites.
Boats launch from public ramps in Miami-Dade. Exact launch depends on water conditions and where the fish are that week — Frank confirms the meeting point a day or two before your trip. Most clients drive themselves; rideshare works fine if you'd rather not.
"Miami is the only place in the United States where you can target wild peacock bass. Visitors come from Texas, the Northeast, the West Coast — and they're back in their hotel by lunch with photos of fish they've never caught before."
You'll also see largemouth bass and Mayan cichlids on most trips, and the occasional snakehead. Frank can target any of them on request.
What to Expect on a Miami Trip
What you'll catch, what's included, and what makes a Miami day different from anywhere else.
What you'll catch
Butterfly peacock bass (the target), largemouth bass, Mayan cichlids, and the occasional snakehead. Average peacock runs 1 to 4 pounds; trophies hit 8 to 9.
What's included
Boat, fuel, all rods and tackle, drinks and snacks, and an expert guide. You bring a Florida freshwater fishing license, polarized sunglasses, and weather-appropriate clothing.
Best time of year
November through April is the strongest peacock bite. Summer and fall fish well too — early mornings and late afternoons are the windows when temperatures are warm.
Before Your Miami Trip
A few things to handle before you show up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly do you fish in Miami?
Public canal systems throughout Miami-Dade. Specific launch points vary based on water conditions and where the fish are that week. Frank confirms the meeting point a day or two before your trip.
How big do Miami peacock bass get?
Most fish run 1 to 4 pounds. Trophy peacock in Miami canals hit 8 to 9 pounds — the Florida state record is just over 9. If you want fish over 15 pounds, that's the Amazon trip.
Can I keep the fish?
Peacock bass are catch-and-release for conservation. Largemouth bass and other species follow standard FWC regulations.
Do I need experience?
No. Frank works with first-time anglers and tournament fishermen alike. The visual nature of peacock bass fishing makes it accessible — you can see what you're casting at.
What if it rains?
Light rain is fine — peacock bass often bite well in cloud cover. Lightning or unsafe conditions trigger a reschedule at no charge.
How do I book?
Book the half-day or full-day product directly, or call (954) 325-1115 to talk through dates.