Peacock Bass Fishing in Miami
Cichla ocellaris
Peacock bass were brought to South Florida to control other non-native fish, and they are now a favourite gamefish in Miami’s canals and lakes. They are brightly coloured, hit lures hard and fight well. Miami is one of the only places in the United States to catch them.
Quick facts
Most are 12 to 18 inches long.
Large fish are uncommon.
Yellow, green and orange with dark bars.
They feed in daylight.
Canals and lakes.
Where to catch them off Miami
Miami canals
Urban canals hold many fish.
Lakes
Lakes in parks and neighbourhoods.
Bridges and culverts
Moving water and shade.
Season in Miami
How to read this meter
- PPeak best time to catch
- FFair can catch
- OOff rarely caught
- CClosed season, no harvest
Peacock bass are caught all year, with the best fishing in the warm months.
Best time and conditions
Warm months
They are most active in warm water.
Sunny days
They feed in daylight.
Techniques and baits
Live shiners
The best bait.
Artificial lures
Jerkbaits, topwater and jigs.
Sight fishing
Seeing fish in clear canals.
Light tackle
Spinning tackle.
Top baits and lures
- Live shiners
- Jerkbaits
- Topwater lures
- Jigs
Florida regulations
A freshwater fishing license is required. On a Salty Fresh charter, your fishing license is included.
FWC: Freshwater fishing rules · Last checked October 27, 2026
On the table
Good, but most anglers release them.
Which charter is best?
Peacock Bass (Miami)
- $350 per trip
- 2 hours, 7:00 AM start
- Up to 2 guests
- Also targets Largemouth bass, Snook, Tarpon and Florida Gar
Peacock Bass (Everglades)
- $650 per trip
- 4 hours, 7:00 AM start
- Up to 2 guests
- Also targets Largemouth bass, Snook, Tarpon and Florida Gar
Cast & Blast: Bass & Iguana
- $700 per trip
- 4 hours, 8:00 AM start
- Up to 2 guests
- Also targets Largemouth bass and Iguana
Fishing Lesson
- $50 per trip
- 1 hours, By arrangement start
- Up to 4 guests
- Also targets Snapper, Snook and Barracuda
Peacock Bass FAQ
When is peacock bass season in Miami?
All year, with the best fishing in warm months.
How many can I keep?
2 per person, only 1 over 15 inches.
Where do you catch peacock bass?
Miami’s canals and lakes.
Are peacock bass native?
No. They were introduced to control other non-native fish.
Which charter is best for peacock bass?
The Peacock Bass Miami trip.
Can I cancel my trip?
Free cancellation up to 3 days (72 hours) before your trip. This applies to every trip, including iguana hunts and snorkeling. To cancel, call Capt. Charles at (305) 972-5659 or email saltyfreshfishingcharters@gmail.com.