Tag: Peacock Bass
Peacock bass are colorful, hard-fighting freshwater fish in the genus Cichla — not true “bass,” but large cichlids native to tropical South America. They were introduced to South Florida in the 1980s to help control invasive tilapia and provide sport for anglers.
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Butterfly peacock bass (Cichla ocellaris) – The only species legally stocked in Florida; grows 2–6 lb (state record: 9.11 lb).
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Larger relatives in South America include the tucunaré açu (Cichla temensis), which can exceed 20 lb.
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Peacock Bass
(Cichla ocellaris) Peacock Bass in Florida: Miami’s Tropical Trophy Fish When people picture bass fishing in Florida, they usually think of giant largemouths leaping from lily pads — but South Florida holds another star that looks like it swam straight out of the Amazon. The Butterfly Peacock Bass (Cichla ocellaris) brings color, strength, and excitement…
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Welcome to Big Bass Miami
Where the Big Bass Live Welcome to Big Bass Miami, where the sun, water, and world-class fishing come together. Founded by Peter Cardenas in 2025, Big Bass Miami celebrates the adventure of chasing Big Bass. Our mission is to share the joy, patience, and reward that come from time on the water. A Passion for…