Butterfly Peacock Bass
Cichla ocellaris
A brilliantly colored tropical cichlid introduced to the canals of southeast Florida in the 1980s to control non-native forage fish, the butterfly peacock bass has a golden-yellow body marked with three dark vertical bars and a distinctive black, gold-ringed eyespot on the tail. Hard-fighting and aggressive, it is prized by anglers in the urban canals of Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, where warm water keeps it thriving.
Warm urban canals and lakes of southeast Florida, near culverts, bridges and rocky structure.
How to Catch Butterfly Peacock Bass
Whether you're new to targeting Butterfly Peacock Bass or refining your approach, success starts with matching your tactics to where the fish lives. Butterfly Peacock Bass (Cichla ocellaris) is typically found in lake water and river water, so concentrate your effort where those conditions line up. Mature Butterfly Peacock Bass average around 14 inches, which helps you choose the right line, lure size, and tackle for the fight.
Where to Find Butterfly Peacock Bass in the USA & Canada
Butterfly Peacock Bass is recorded across a range of North American waters, including spots in Florida and Hawaii. Browse the linked water guides below to see the specific lakes, rivers, and coastal waters where anglers report catching Butterfly Peacock Bass, then plan a trip around the water closest to you.
Butterfly Peacock Bass Fishing Regulations & Limits
Fishing rules for Butterfly Peacock Bass vary by state and province. Before you head out, check the daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons that apply in your area. When FishFinder has matching records, the regulations link below takes you to the rules hub. Following local limits keeps Butterfly Peacock Bass populations healthy for future seasons.
Related Water Guides for Butterfly Peacock Bass
Explore these FishFinder water guides for places where Butterfly Peacock Bass is recorded:
Butterfly Peacock Bass Regulations
Review current FishFinder regulation records before targeting Butterfly Peacock Bass:
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of water is best for catching Butterfly Peacock Bass?
Butterfly Peacock Bass (Cichla ocellaris) is typically found in lake water and river water. Focus your effort where those conditions line up to improve your chances.
How big does Butterfly Peacock Bass get?
Mature Butterfly Peacock Bass average around 14 inches, though individual fish can run larger. Matching your line, lure size, and tackle to that range makes for a better fight and landing rate.
Where can I catch Butterfly Peacock Bass in the USA and Canada?
Butterfly Peacock Bass is reported across North American waters, including spots in Florida and Hawaii. Check the locations listed on this page to find the lakes, rivers, and coastal waters closest to you.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Butterfly Peacock Bass?
A valid fishing license is required in most US states and Canadian provinces. Daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons for Butterfly Peacock Bass vary by region, so review the regulations on this page and with your local wildlife authority before heading out.