South Florida Bass Fishing
The only US peacock bass population, the wildest sloughs in the lower 48, and hosted weeks anywhere from the Amazon to Argentina — all from one captain.
Why South Florida Is Some of the Best Freshwater Fishing in the Country
South Florida has the only US peacock bass population — an Amazon import the state introduced in 1984 to control invasive tilapia. They thrive in Miami's urban canals, where you can sight-fish them from the bank or a small boat five minutes from a downtown hotel. That's a fishery that doesn't exist anywhere else in the country.
Ninety minutes west, the Everglades open up — 1.5 million acres of wilderness that hold the same peacock bass plus largemouth, snakehead, and Mayan cichlids. Two distinct fisheries, both within a short drive, and a different day either way.
We run trips across the region, plus hosted weeks abroad. Pick the water, pick the species, pick the day length — we'll handle the rest.
Pick Your Water
The right South Florida trip depends on what you want out of the day. Miami canals are the fastest, easiest peacock bass — five minutes from a downtown hotel, sight fishing in clear water. The Everglades is wilder, with more species in play and a different feel.
If you want trophy peacock bass — the 15 to 25-pound parent species — that's a hosted Amazon week. The South Florida butterfly tops out around 9 pounds; Brazil is where the big fish live.
"I've had clients fly in for a Miami peacock bass day, drive to the Everglades for largemouth and snakehead the next, and book a hosted Amazon week for the year after. Same captain, different fisheries."
If you're not sure which one fits your trip, call us. Most clients pick the wrong one the first time, and we'd rather route you correctly up front than ship you to a fishery you don't actually want.
Three Ways to Fish With HawgHunter
Each links to a deeper page with what to expect, what's included, and how to book.
Miami canals
Visual peacock bass fishing in clear water, often within five minutes of downtown. Half-day is the right product. Miami peacock bass →
The Everglades
1.5 million acres of wilderness. Peacock bass, largemouth, snakehead, Mayan cichlids — multi-species days are the norm. Everglades peacock bass →
Hosted destinations
Hosted weeks on the Amazon for trophy peacock bass — plus Argentina, Panama, Alaska, and Ontario by request. Hosted Brazil weeks →
Planning a South Florida Fishing Trip
A few things to know before you book.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm visiting Miami — can I fit a fishing trip into a short stay?
Yes. A Miami canal half-day is 4 hours and launches from a public ramp 5 to 15 minutes from most Miami hotels. Many visitors fish in the morning and are back in time for lunch.
Can I combine multiple HawgHunter trips?
Yes — Miami canals one day, the Everglades the next is the most common combination. If you want trophy peacock bass too, add a hosted Amazon week to the trip. Contact us to build the schedule.
What's the difference between Miami and the Everglades?
Miami is urban, fast, and visual — peacock bass in clear canal water, downtown skyline behind you. The Everglades is wilder, with more species in play (peacock, largemouth, snakehead, cichlids) and a different feel. Same captain, different days.
When's the best time of year for South Florida fishing?
Late November through April is the strongest window — peacock bass concentrate, water temps are stable. Summer fishes well too, especially early mornings.
Do I need to bring my own gear?
No. Every HawgHunter trip includes boat, rods, tackle, and an expert guide. You bring a Florida fishing license, polarized sunglasses, and weather-appropriate clothing.
How do I pick which trip to book?
Read the Miami and Everglades pages on this site, or call (954) 325-1115. Most clients pick the wrong one the first time — we'd rather talk it through than send you to the wrong water.