At times, Anglers have to pursue fish in less than ideal environments. Living most of the year in overpopulated South Florida, I often fish in areas I call “Urban Jungle Fishing.” These areas consist of canals and lakes that are in neighborhoods, along Interstates or in commercial districts. The fishing is noisy, filled with sounds of traffic, airplanes and sirens. But, due to the influx of non native freshwater species, such as, the Mayan Cichlid, Bullseye Snakehead and Peacock Bass; the fishing can be quite good! The Peacock Bass was introduced by the State of Florida years ago to help control other exotic species and to create Urban fishing opportunities. The other species were introduced illegally, but have thrived in South Florida’s warm waters.

Recently I took a friend out in pursuit of Peacock Bass. Fishing in a canal that is crossed by Interstate I-95, we searched for Peacock Bass around boat docks and moored boats. The sounds of loud cars and trucks was always present. With hundreds of iguanas sunning themselves on theses docks, the fishing was pretty good. Tossing Perch colored Rapala lures under the docks yielded a number of nice Peacocks. Peacocks fight much stronger than native Largemouth Bass. The colorful Peacock Bass are very aggressive and eagerly strike artificial lures that mimic baitfish. A few Myan Cichlids were also caught. All fish were released.

While I would certainly prefer fishing a pristine mountain lake or river with no one else in sight, Urban Jungle Fishing does provide the opportunity to catch some interesting fish species. If you would also like to tackle some hard fighting exotic fish, toss a lure into a canal in South Florida. You might be surprised by what you hook!

Grey Viking