Ready to chase some of the most exciting freshwater fish in the Sunshine State? Join me for a 3-hour private bass fishing adventure through the heart of the Florida Everglades. We'll be targeting largemouth bass, colorful peacock bass, and some unique exotics that'll make your fishing buddies back home green with envy. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, this trip is guaranteed to deliver non-stop action, jaw-dropping scenery, and memories that'll last a lifetime.
We'll kick things off bright and early, meeting at our launch point just as the sun starts peeking over the sawgrass. You'll hop aboard my fully-rigged 21' Skeeter bass boat - a real fish-catching machine that'll get us to all the honey holes in comfort and style. I've got all the gear, tackle, and live bait we'll need for a successful day on the water. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure, some drinks and snacks to keep you fueled up, and don't forget that sunscreen - the Florida sun doesn't mess around! Oh, and if you're 16 or older, make sure you've got your Florida freshwater fishing license squared away before we head out.
Get ready to try out some classic Everglades fishing techniques that'll have you hooking into bass left and right. We'll start off flipping and pitching into the thick vegetation where those big ol' largemouth like to hide. It's a bit like playing darts, but way more fun when your target starts pulling back! As the sun gets higher, we'll switch gears and do some sight fishing for peacock bass. There's nothing quite like watching a colorful peacock charge out from under a log to smash your lure. And for you finesse fishing fans, we might break out the drop shot rigs if the bite gets tough. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques - I'll walk you through every cast and retrieve until you're catching fish like a pro.
Largemouth Bass: The king of the Everglades, these bucketmouths can grow to monster sizes in our nutrient-rich waters. They're ambush predators, so we'll be targeting structure like fallen trees, lily pads, and grass lines. The adrenaline rush when a big largemouth explodes on your topwater lure is second to none. Spring and fall are prime times for trophy fish, but we catch quality bass year-round.
Peacock Bass: Originally from the Amazon, these gorgeous fish have made themselves right at home in South Florida. Known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights, peacock bass are a blast to catch on both artificial lures and live bait. They love warm water, so summer and early fall are peak seasons. Keep your camera ready - their vibrant blue, orange, and green colors make for epic photos.
Oscar: These panfish on steroids might look like something from your aquarium, but they put up a scrappy fight that'll surprise you. Oscars hang out near structure and vegetation, often in the same areas as bass. They're curious fish and will often follow your lure right up to the boat. While they're great eating, we practice catch and release to keep the fishery healthy.
Alligator Gar: The prehistoric-looking alligator gar is a true Everglades icon. These toothy giants can grow over 6 feet long and put up a fight that'll test your tackle and your stamina. We don't target them specifically, but hooking into one is always an exciting possibility. They're most active in the warmer months and love to ambush prey in shallow, weedy areas.
A day fishing the Everglades is about more than just catching fish - it's a full-on nature experience. As we cruise through the maze of channels and sawgrass prairies, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Alligators sunning themselves on the banks, ospreys diving for their next meal, and maybe even a manatee or two if we're lucky. The scenery out here is like nowhere else on earth, and I never get tired of showing it off to guests.
We'll hit a variety of spots throughout the trip, from open water to tight mangrove tunnels. I've got a bunch of productive areas dialed in, but we can always audible if one spot isn't producing. The beauty of a private trip is that flexibility - we'll go where the fish are biting and tailor the experience to your skill level and preferences.
So, are you ready to experience some of the best bass fishing Florida has to offer? This 3-hour trip is perfect for squeezing in some quality fishing time without eating up your whole day. It's great for families, groups of friends, or solo anglers looking to learn some new techniques. Remember, we're limited to 3 guests max to keep things personalized and ensure everyone gets plenty of fishing time.
Don't let this opportunity to tangle with some Everglades giants slip away. The fish are biting, the weather's perfect, and I've got an open seat on the boat with your name on it. Book now and let's make some fishing memories you'll be bragging about for years to come. Tight lines, and I'll see you on the water!
Alligator gar are living fossils and the giants of the Everglades. These prehistoric-looking fish can grow over 6 feet long and top 100 pounds. You'll find them in deeper river bends and backwaters, often near shallow areas. Late summer is prime time when it's hot and dry. Gar fishing is all about patience and heavy gear. These armor-plated beasts put up a slugfest of a fight that can last an hour. Most anglers target them for the challenge and unique experience - it's like hooking into a dinosaur. To improve your chances, use big baits like mullet or carp on a wire leader. Let it sit near the bottom and wait for that telltale run. Just remember, in Florida it's catch-and-release only for alligator gar. Watching one of these ancient fish swim away is a memory you won't forget.
Largemouth bass are the bread and butter of Everglades fishing. These green-backed bruisers typically run 2-5 pounds, but 10+ pounders aren't unheard of. You'll find them around vegetation, fallen trees, and other structure in lakes and canals. Spring is prime time when they're spawning, but you can catch them year-round. Largemouth are famous for their aggressive strikes and airborne acrobatics - that's why they're America's favorite sportfish. To entice a bite, try pitching soft plastics or working a topwater lure near cover. One local trick: use shiners under a cork near lily pads. Whether you're after quantity or that trophy fish, largemouth bass offer consistent action and the chance at a real wallhanger. Plus, they're good eating if you want to keep a few smaller ones for dinner.
Oscars are quirky fish that add variety to an Everglades trip. These cichlids usually top out around 1-2 pounds but punch above their weight. You'll find them in canals, ponds, and slow-moving parts of rivers, often hanging near vegetation or other cover. Oscars are year-round targets but seem most active in warmer months. Anglers enjoy their aggressive strikes and sporty fights on light tackle. Plus, their leopard-like spots make for cool photos. To catch oscars, try small live baits like worms or crickets. A local trick is using pieces of hot dog - they can't resist! Fish slowly near structure, and don't be surprised if you catch other exotic species while targeting oscars. They're not just fun to catch, but tasty too if you want to keep a few for dinner.
Peacock bass are real showstoppers in the Everglades. These colorful fighters usually run 2-4 pounds but can hit 10+ pounds. Look for them in warmer canals and lakes, especially near structure like fallen trees or rocky areas. They're most active spring through fall when water temps are up. Peacocks are known for explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps - they'll test your skills and gear. To hook one, try using live golden shiners (we call 'em "peacock candy") or flashy topwater lures. Cast near cover and be ready for action. Just remember, these guys are sight-feeders, so clear water and sunny days are your friend. Whether you're after a trophy or just want to tangle with a hard-fighting fish, peacock bass deliver.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 72
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250