KANE ANTHONY

Exotic Excitement

September 16, 2021

Introduction

Florida is home to a large variety of wildlife intruders on land, in the air, and underwater. Despite the potential impact on delicate ecosystems, many anglers’ love the addition of foreign fish in their waters as it gives more variety to their fishing excursions. Below are some of the most sought-after exotic fish by Florida anglers.

Snakehead

The Bullseye Snakehead’s history in the United States was turbulent and controversial.

(click here to read why)

However, as a sport-fish the snakehead is an undeniable anglers-dream. Techniques for catching them can also be quite similar to those used for Largemouth Bass, but their torpedo shaped bodies make the hit hard and the fight long.

Clown Knife Fish

One of the less widespread fish on this list is the Clown Knife Fish. Like the Snakehead, these fish were illegally introduced to Florida Waterways and are currently hunted by the FWC. However, strong populations of the fish seem to be centered around the Lake Ida area. An interesting trait that creates a unique fight for anglers is the fish’s ability to swim backwards/in reverse with great power.

Peacock Bass

The Peacock bass was introduced in 1984 by the FWC to regulate the population of other exotic species like Mayan Cichlids and Oscars that had become overpopulated. Additionally, the Peacock Bass is actually a member of the cichlid family, and isn’t actually a species of Bass. Peacock Bass are most prominently found in the Broward and Dade County areas and are a fan favorite by many anglers in the state.

Oscars

Originally introduced by fish breeders in the 1950’s, the Oscar overpopulated Florida waters and needed FWC intervention to maintain their presence and ensure the survival of native species. Today the Oscar can be caught throughout South Florida, and the larger ones are known to put up good fights for their size. I used to compare the fight to reeling in a heavy, but lazy, bluegill.

On the Horizon

Recently, the carcass of an Arapaima was found washed up on on the bank of the Caloosahatchee River. If a fish of that size successfully establishes itself in Florida, the consequences could be dire. However, the fishing would be amazing! Arapaima are massive freshwater fish that grow up to ten feet long and weigh hundreds of pounds. They are also known to give anglers a wild ride. Below is a clip from the River Monsters TV show that displays the strength and size of this species.