5 Everglades Fish You Can Encounter on a Fishing Charter
It’s no secret that South Florida is a haven for saltwater and freshwater fish alike. But, many people are surprised to find out that the River of Grass is flush with fish! Yes, the Florida Everglades has some of the best bass fishing in America. When you set off on our bass fishing guide service at Mack’s Fish Camp, there are many other fish you could see! Here’s some info on some species of Everglades fish.
Bowfin
A long, stout fish, bowfins are strong fighters, and have been known to snatch lures from unsuspecting anglers! They have long dorsal fins and rounded tailfins. At first glance, they can be mistaken for a bullseye snakehead fish.
Largemouth Bass
The largemouth bass is the most popular game fish in North America. They’re also the state freshwater fish of Florida, and with good reason. These bass are found statewide, and are found near vegetation. A big catch for a largemouth bass in Florida starts around 24 inches long and weigh 8 pounds!
Florida Gar
This long, torpedo-shaped fish is generally not considered a game fish. But it’s aggressive eating habits can offer a good fight. Its long snout and thick, armored scales give the Florida Gar an almost prehistoric look. It also breathes through gills and an air bladder, and must surface periodically for air.
Channel Catfish
Identified by their whisker-like barbells and forked tail, channel catfish are the most –fished catfish species in America. They are a popular catch for food, and are attracted to strong odors. Shrimp or other commercial stink baits are recommended for them.
Tarpon
A very popular sport fish in South Florida, tarpon are found in both saltwater and freshwater habitats. When it’s not quite warm yet in during spring, tarpon are very abundant in the Everglades, especially the younger ones. They can grow quite large, weighing over 200 pounds!
How weather conditions affect Everglades fish
The Everglades dry season (December though April) often leads to extended periods of drought, and lower water levels. While this can concentrate fish in gator holes, sloughs, and canals, it leaves them exposed to predators in marshes. Their numbers are replenished and more abundant during the flooding of the Everglades wet season, though much less concentrated.
The fish in the Everglades are vital to this ecosystem. They are a primary food source for alligators, birds, and larger fish. Fish also help manage Everglades insect populations. Whether you explore on our bass guide service or just take an Everglades tour on an airboat, you’re sure to see plenty of them!
Why the Best Everglades Fishing is at Mack's Fish Camp
South Florida is a paradise for fans of the outdoors, especially those who love fishing. The Everglades has an ecosystem that is home to large numbers of Peacock bass and largemouth bass, along with other species like Florida gar and tarpon.
A popular fishing spot, the Everglades holds a record for the most fish caught per person per hour, which is impressive when taking into account Florida’s many lakes and rivers.
If you’re a professional angler or it’s your first time fishing, here’s how you can have the experience of a lifetime Everglades fishing at Mack’s Fish Camp in Miami.
Land a Lunker On a Jon Boat Rental or Guided Fishing Tour
At Mack’s Fish Camp we have everything you need to have a fun and successful Everglades fishing trip. We offer jon boat rentals, and sell tackle, beverages and snacks at our store. But, if you’d like to have some help navigating the Everglades, and are up for some exploration while you do, Mack’s Fish Camp offers airboat bass fishing guide service.
Gladesmen who have fished the Everglades since they were born will be your knowledgeable guides, showing you both great fishing spots and the unique beauty of the River of Grass. On this 4-hour Everglades fishing trip, you’ll be provided with tackle, fishing rods and reels, sunscreen, bug spray, and a cooler packed with refreshments from our store.
Everglades Airboat Bass Fishing
Bass fishing on an airboat has its own distinct advantages. Because airboats move by a propeller that’s above the water, their movement doesn’t disturb fish as much as traditional boat motors do. Also, airboats can navigate over shallow water in marshes, allowing more access to areas of the Everglades than regular boats can.
But in addition to an amazing fishing trip, you’ll be treated to an to an airboat ride where you’ll see many species of Everglades wildlife up close. The Everglades is home to many birds like egrets, roseate spoonbills, great blue heron, and is the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles coexist.
Bass fishing in the Everglades provides a great time in truly unique and beautiful place. At Mack’s Fish Camp, taking an Everglades fishing trip while enjoying an airboat ride provides a thrill for the whole family. Whether fishing alone or with a guide, the Florida Everglades provides plenty of great weather, incredible scenery, and of course, plenty of fish!