Fishing Charters in Florida
Browse fishing charters in Florida that can help you catch peacock bass.
Best Time to Catch Peacock Bass
Peak season: April, May, June. Also good: January, February, March, July, August, September. Right now in February, activity is good.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Peacock Bass
Fort Lauderdale provides an accessible and exciting Peacock Bass fishery right in the heart of the city. The intricate network of canals and lakes throughout the area are teeming with these colorful and aggressive fish. While they can be caught year-round, the peak season is during the warmer months, from March to November. Look for them around docks, seawalls, and any submerged structure that provides cover. Fort Lauderdale's canals are easily accessible from shore, making it a great option for anglers without a boat. A local tip is to fish early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the fish are most active and the boat traffic is minimal. Also, be mindful of the residential areas and avoid excessive noise. The canals near Holiday Park and the Intracoastal Waterway are particularly productive. Fort Lauderdale's peacock bass are known for their willingness to strike topwater lures, providing thrilling visual strikes.
How to Catch Peacock Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Peacock Bass in Fort Lauderdale.
Peacock Bass Fishing Regulations in Florida
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
2 per day
Size Limit
Must be kept alive to be transported. Only one may be longer than 17 inches.
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
Peacock bass are only found in South Florida. Check specific regulations for the area you intend to fish.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use for peacock bass in Fort Lauderdale?
Live shiners are arguably the most effective bait for peacock bass. They mimic the natural forage and trigger aggressive strikes. Artificial lures like crankbaits, jerkbaits, and topwater lures can also produce well.
What time of year is best for peacock bass fishing in Fort Lauderdale?
Peacock bass fishing in Fort Lauderdale is good year-round. However, the warmer months (spring and summer) are generally considered peak season when they are most active and aggressive.
What's the bag limit for peacock bass in Florida?
The daily bag limit for peacock bass in Florida is 2 fish per person. Only one of those fish can be longer than 17 inches.
Do I need a license to fish for peacock bass in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, you need a valid Florida freshwater fishing license to target peacock bass in Fort Lauderdale's canals and lakes.
More Peacock Bass Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Fort Lauderdale
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