Freshwater
Butterfly Peacock Bass
Cichla ocellaris
- Peak season
- Spring and Summer (year-round in Florida)
- Length range
- 20–60 cm
- Weight range
- 0.3–5 kg
- Typical depth
- 0–5 m
Habitat
Tropical lakes, canals, and rivers in South America and South Florida. Prefers warm water near structure and drop-offs.
Behavior
Explosive topwater predator with violent strikes. Highly aggressive and territorial. Popular exotic species in South Florida canals.
Best techniques
- Topwater poppers and prop baits
- Jerkbaits worked near structure
- Live shiners near canal banks
- Soft plastics on jig head
