![]() This is due to the Floridan aquifer maintaining a constant 72-degree water temperature. During winter months, South Florida is the only place that stays warm enough to support the peacock bass. These are warmwater fish, originating from the Amazon River. This South Florida ecosystem is the only place in the continental United States peacock bass can be found. ![]() Some anglers report of peacock catches as far west as the Naples area. Starting in Palm Beach County and working their way all the way to Florida City, peacock bass can be found intermingling with the freshwater natives. A beautiful sight, one you're most likely to see if fishing in South Florida canals. Including the butterfly, which has been introduced to Florida and Hawaii, there are 14 different subspecies of peacock bass native to the Amazon River and its tributaries. The peacock bass is actually not a bass at all it is in the cichlid family. Peacocks were slowly introduced into small waterways as somewhat of a “test,” to find they did the intended job well and could flourish in South Florida. The peacock bass happened to be the perfect match for this task. These fish were negatively impacting native species such as largemouth bass. Scientists needed a fish to combat the booming populations of invasive species such as spotted tilapia and Oscars that had escaped from breeding ponds during hurricanes and people releasing them into the wild. Scientists introduced butterfly peacock bass to South Florida in 1984. With their aggressive eats, strong runs and beautiful colors, these fish have become prized gamefish. But for fisherman in South Florida, the peacock bass is the staple in the local freshwater systems. When you hear the word bass, most think of sparkly boats, baitcasters and big tournament payouts.
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