Peacock Bass On Fly
Light Tackle & Artificial
About Us
The Adventure & The pursuit
The Adventure & The pursuit
The Adventure & The pursuit
Come cast a line with us in the beautiful Urban Jungle of South Florida, and enjoy breathtaking sceneries of the magnificent Everglades.
We will show you the best peacock bass fishing, and exotic species such as Jaguar quapote cichlid, Mayan cichlid, Midas cichlid, Tiger Oscar, Spotted Tilapia, Pacu, Bowfin,Clownknife, and the infamous B
Come cast a line with us in the beautiful Urban Jungle of South Florida, and enjoy breathtaking sceneries of the magnificent Everglades.
We will show you the best peacock bass fishing, and exotic species such as Jaguar quapote cichlid, Mayan cichlid, Midas cichlid, Tiger Oscar, Spotted Tilapia, Pacu, Bowfin,Clownknife, and the infamous Bulleyes Snakehead ( AKA the Urban Jungle Dragon).
Also, some of the best Largemouth bass fishing in the Everglades, where is home to many giants.
On to Saltwater fishing, on the flats of Biscayne bay. Biscayne bay is the largest estuary on the coast of southeast Florida and is contiguous with the southern Florida Everglades and Florida Bay. It is considered one of the best fishing locations in South Florida. Targeted species include Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit, Barracuda. It's nothing like it to sight fish for these species in these pristine waters.
While the Flamingo ( Everglades National Park) also offers great angling opportunities with species include Tarpon, Snook, Sea trout, Redfish, Snapper, Triple tail, Goliath grouper, Shark, and more.
The Everglades is a place like no where else on Earth with millions of acres, thousands of islands full of mangroves, and hundreds miles of shoreline running along the gulf of Mexico. It is for sure one of the World's best fisheries, and one of the greatest flats fishing destinations on the planet. While having fun fishing, you can also enjoy a nice ride on the Lady Jade. Sit back, relax and feast your eyes with the most amazing, and breathtaking scenery. You'll likely encounter a number of wildlife such as Dolphins, Sharks, Manatees, Crocodiles, Alligators, and well over 300 species of birds.
The Florida's Everglades is the only place on Earth where both Crocodiles, and Alligators coexist.
Meet Your Captain
The Adventure & The pursuit
The Adventure & The pursuit
Captain Justin Nguyen is a United States Coast Guard licensed Captain, he moved to the Fort Lauderdale area from Northwest Indiana in 2017 leaving behind a successful steelhead fishing guide operation for over a decade. He cut his teeth targeting freshwater apex predators in skinny waters where you have to deal with endless trees and unde
Captain Justin Nguyen is a United States Coast Guard licensed Captain, he moved to the Fort Lauderdale area from Northwest Indiana in 2017 leaving behind a successful steelhead fishing guide operation for over a decade. He cut his teeth targeting freshwater apex predators in skinny waters where you have to deal with endless trees and undergrowth. His skill with casting flies through, around or under vegetation adapted well to the urban fishing jungle of South Florida. Justin has spent countless hours on the water. Some guys have the knack for knowing where fish will stage to ambush their next meal and how to trigger bites. He is one of those guys.
You will see Justin drive right up to spots, and he will put you on fish in minutes. The ability to find the right stretches of water to target is a huge advantage. When you come to fish with him, you'll also get to learn how to fish for peacock bass in Florida from land or boat. From fishing canals and small lakes. Justin will demonstrate his casting techniques, and he will work with you. From the flies he prefers, his gear, rods, reels, lines, and leaders, he will share with you what works. Knowing a little more is all the edge you need to get on fish, and enjoy your adventure.
Fishing with Captain Justin is an experience you'll enjoy for he's very knowledgeable, and his passion for guiding is very evident after you land a fish, and see the excitement he has for you. Not to mention he's also so much fun, and a great company on the water.
Let Captain Justin guide you, and show you a day of great fishing, one you won't forget for a long time.
The Vessel "Lady Jade"
Lady Jade is a gorgeous 16ft 6 long Skimmer Skiff, she's powered with a Tohatsu 50 HP 4 stroke.. She rides like a dream.
You'll have a very comfortable day of fishing once aboard.
Testimonials
Justin is top-notch in my book! A true sportsman and an outstanding fly fishing guide. Love his approach and unique perspective. Book him!
Joe Mahler
Fly casting instructor
Fort Myers, Florida
Extremely knowledgeable and one of the hardest working Guides I know, and your chance of catching is better than great! Highly recom
Justin is top-notch in my book! A true sportsman and an outstanding fly fishing guide. Love his approach and unique perspective. Book him!
Joe Mahler
Fly casting instructor
Fort Myers, Florida
Extremely knowledgeable and one of the hardest working Guides I know, and your chance of catching is better than great! Highly recommend him and you won't be disappointed!
Alberto Knie
( Crazy Alberto)
Captain Justin is a great instructor, great guide, and a general friendly person. He's always put me on fish, even back when he was guiding in the Great Lakes. I would recommend going out on trip with Justin if you will be in the South Florida area.
Fraser Semple
Chicago, IL
I have been on many charters over the years so I know how to distinguish the good from the bad. I judge my success, and my guide on two main factors; Does the guide knows his home waters, and can he be a good coach/teacher to me? Captain Justin exceeded my expectations in both areas.
Erik Cohen
Wrightstown, Pennsylvania
I joined my wife on her work trip to Florida for a handful of days. My goal for the trip was to learn how/where to fly fish for Peas, and any other Urban Jungle species. A ton of online research was done in advance, but I only had a lil bit of success while on my own. I also realized there's just way too much water to cover to find a decent spot. Given my frustration, I booked Justin on my last day in town. Justin immediately put me on fish, and the "bite " didn't let up in the heavy rain that came later. Bottom line - Justin will put on on fish ( a lot of them). He's also a personable guide and it's clear that he has a genuine drive to make sure you have a first class experience. If considering a guide, do so early in your trip. Justin kills it!
Frederick McElman
Hernon, Virginia
Justin is such a pro! Amazing fisherman, amazing guide. Has all the spots for multiple species. Not only does he really CARE that you catch fish, but he is such a fun guy to spend the day with. 5 stars! Will fish with him every time I'm in the area. Hands down!
Patrick Joyce
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Justin was fantastic!!! He went above and beyond what I expected and was incredible with my son. He knows the water and how to find the fish. Very attentive and will definitely be back in the near future. We had a blast!!!
Michael Coutu
Orlando, Florida
As an ex fishing guide myself let me just tell you that some have it and some don't! If you're in the Miami area and want to do some conventional or fly fishing Justin (Cast A Line Fly Charters) is the one to call. I had a great afternoon with him a few weeks back. Can't wait to do it again and I will be sending my buds his way. Fish on Justin Nguyen!
Michael Munoz
Chile
We were on a family trip to Miami for spring break. Our fishing plans were jinxed, leaving us looking for a new outing on very short notice. I called the local fly shop (The Fly Shop of Miami), and thankfully Patrick Callea answered and was incredibly helpful in hooking us up with his friend Captain Justin and Cast A Line Fly Charters. A couple of days later and my son and I were in the Everglades catching peacock bass and several other species, catching so many fish I lost count. Spring break was saved after all. Captain Justin is an awesome guide. This is a great experience for any fly angler. I would gladly go again tomorrow if I could.
Greg Brockwell
Anniston, Alabama
Captain Justin did an amazing job. Made the day fun and exciting. On top of that he made some unbelievable food for lunch. Highly recommend his service. His equipment was top notch and perfect for this type of trip. He worked it hard and kept us on the fish. 5 Stars.
Ken Weschke
Perrysburg, Ohio
We were in Key West and the wind was blowing so hard we could not get out on the water. We decided to try for one of the legendary Miami Peacock Bass. The local fly shop recommended Justin at Cast a Line Fly Charters and we are very glad he did. It was obvious that Justin knows this fishery as he took us to a public area and we caught dozens of Peacock Bass as well as a slew of other fish all on the fly. I used my 5 wt Orvis Helios 3F for most of the day but also caught a few on a sweet little 3 wt set up he had. I will definitely be back sooner rather than later and the absolute giant Peacock Bass I missed will haunt my dreams for a long time. If it was possible to give 6 stars on here I would. Justin is fantastic.
Btw make sure you eat a light breakfast as you are going to want to eat every morsel of his shore lunch.
Geoff Emery
Blue Ridge, Virginia
Spent a day in Everglades with Justin and absolutely slayed the fishing. Between my buddy and I, we got on 200 fish (not joking, seriously!!), including the peacocks we were gunning for. Justin got us on fish all day long and knew the exact flies to rig up for us. We were catching them on 3 weights, 5 weights, 7 weights, poppers, clousers, and more!
What may have been better than the constant hooking up on fish, was Captain Justin. His energy and positive attitude is contagious and if we had caught 0 fish, it still would have been an awesome time because of Justin. And, if you opt in on a possible lunch option, it will blow your sox off (best meal I had in Miami!).
All in all, this is an awesome outfit and an amazing guide. We'll be back!!
Travis Hersh
Denver, Colorado
It’s worth the trip to south Florida to fish with Capt, Justin. He’s a heckuva a captain and a great guide. He worked hard to put us on fish and did a great job of helping teach us what we needed to do to help maximize the opportunities we got. We absolutely crushed the peacocks with him!! Do yourself a favor and book at least a 3/4 day so you can experience his shore lunch. He’s a great chef to. We’ll definitely fish with him again!
Jason Yarbrough
Lillington, North Carolina
I've had the opportunity to fish twice with Captain Justin. He is exactly what you are looking for in guide. He knows his stuff, he works hard, and he wants you to catch fish! He's also a rockstar chef, and that's a nice side benefit. It's a great fishery down there in South Florida, and I'd recommend that anyone take advantage of it.
Randy Richter
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
I am not new to guided fishing. I have been going on guided trips for years. Justin is fabulous guide. He has tremendous knowledge of the water he fishes and if you ask him, he has some great tweaks for your cast. There was also the surprise of a home cooked lunch that was delicious. The boat had a fun, Zen vibe and we caught great fish. I booked again already. Full stars from me!
Rick Feingold
Chicago, Illinois
Justin led me to catch my biggest bass ever. He made my dad and me a fantastic lunch of shrimp and pork belly. Lastly, he gave me an outstanding fly fishing lesson and helped me catch peacock bass and more on a fly for the first time.
He was constantly working to get my dad and me to the fish and giving us tips and guidance when our casts had room for improvement. I should also mention that Justin’s boat is beautiful and in pristine condition!
It was a great day that I’ll always remember and I can’t recommend him enough!
Bryant Chase
Los Angeles, California
Justin was amazing and did not disappoint! He attended to my 13 year old son like his own. He was very patient and was a wonderful teacher. It was a joy spending the day with Justin, he is a top notch professional.
Today was our first trip catching Peacock Bass and we had an absolute ball doing it. You know it’s a good day when you lose count of how many you’ve caught !If you’re looking for a guide in this area, do yourself a favor and let him lead the way. Can’t wait to come back and do it again!
Randal Minton
Sylacauga, Alabama
Came to south Florida to visit my brother and do a little fishing in the Everglades for my birthday. Literally could not have asked for a better guide than Justin! What an incredible day! Justin knew exactly where the peacocks were, he was patient with us and gave us all kinds of tips and quality instruction. We seriously never stopped catching them all morning! Even put me on this 7+ lb hog! Thanks Justin!! We will definitely see you again one of these days!!
Stuart Hunter
Englewood, Ohio
We had an epic 4 day, 300+ fish, 12 species adventure with Cast A Line Fly Charters. Captain Justin has mastered his craft with vast knowledge of chasing Everglade exotics. With Captain Justin you get an expert guide, a patient instructive teacher, a talented photographer, and a gourmet chef. For an amazing trip in the Everglades we definitely recommend Captain Justin. 🐟🎣🩵💯
Cody Wann
Mounds, Oklahoma
Fabulous trip in the Everglades! Justin was a total pro that put us on fish! If you are looking for something to do in the Fort Lauderdale/Miami area this is a top recommendation for those who love to fly fish. Will be back to do a full day and enjoy the shore lunch that everyone raves about!
Jeff Townsend
St.louis, Missouri
Peacock bass
How they got here
Peacock bass record
Peacock bass record
In Florida, Peacock Bass species were introduced into the lakes and canals of Miami-Dade County in 1984 after ten years of study by the Game and Fish Commission. Over twenty thousand Butterfly Peacock Bass species were released to help control the growing population of exotic fishes, particularly the Spotted Tilapia and Oscar. The Florida
In Florida, Peacock Bass species were introduced into the lakes and canals of Miami-Dade County in 1984 after ten years of study by the Game and Fish Commission. Over twenty thousand Butterfly Peacock Bass species were released to help control the growing population of exotic fishes, particularly the Spotted Tilapia and Oscar. The Florida Peacock Bass wasted little time fulfilling its anticipated roles. Almost immediately the population of Spotted Tilapia started to drop. Because of their sensitivity to cold, the only place on the United States mainland Peacocks have been successfully stocked has been in South Florida. Peacock Bass cannot, in fact, survive any further north than Broward County or they experience a natural die-off. Any further north than that despite efforts by well-meaning fisherman transporting them to other locations simply has not worked. Though called bass to raise its game fish status, Peacocks are actually in the cichlid family and is a very close relative to the Oscar, a popular aquarium fish. They grow at a very fast rate, reaching a pound or more in size in their first year, so you can imagine how much they have to eat to fuel that growth! Therefore Peacock Bass are ready and willing to viciously attack just about any type lure or bait, especially if retrieved in a lively manner. They just love to attack and destroy streamers and poppers for you fly fishermen and many of the conventional bass lures for you die-hard bass fishermen. It is not uncommon to catch thirty fish or more per day. Once hooked the Peacock Bass puts on a spectacular show that is second to none.
Description – The body shape is similar to that of a
largemouth bass. Body color, as you can see by the pictures they are a beautiful fish marked with iridescent hues of yellow, orange, green, and blue with three black vertical bars and a black spot with a silver halo on the caudal fin but have highly variable color patterns.
Season – Florida Peacock bass fishing is a year-round fishery so you can plan a trip for any time of the year. If you asked what is the best time to come, the answer would be between February to the end of June. During this time of the year, you will have the best chance at a larger butterfly peacock bass. Also between late September and December or until the first cold front approaches. This a great time for schooling fish, rest assured we guarantee you fish no matter when you come down.
Peacock bass record
Peacock bass record
Peacock bass record
The current Florida state record for Butterfly Peacock bass is 9.11 pounds and measuring 26 and 5/16 inches long. It was caught by a local angler Felipe Prieto here in Miami on October 8, 2021, which beats the old record of 9.08 pounds that stood since 1993. But fish up to 12 pounds have been caught; current IGFA all-tackle world record i
The current Florida state record for Butterfly Peacock bass is 9.11 pounds and measuring 26 and 5/16 inches long. It was caught by a local angler Felipe Prieto here in Miami on October 8, 2021, which beats the old record of 9.08 pounds that stood since 1993. But fish up to 12 pounds have been caught; current IGFA all-tackle world record is 12.6 pounds (caught in Venezuela); 13 of the 16 current IGFA world records caught from Florida waters.
CATCH AND RELEASE
CPR (CATCH-PHOTO- RELEASE))
All Peacock bass caught will be released.
Make sure you do it quickly, snap a photo then release.
We encourage the practice of catch and release, so these magnificent fish can fight another day. The real value of this fish is in its use for controlling over-abundant exotic forage fishes and its sporting qualities; therefore FWC encourages anglers to catch and release these fish.
And most mportantly for our future generation to be able to enjoy this great sport as we are now.
New Florida State Record
Love 'Em ~ Let 'Em Grow!
Safe handling/ Reviving fish
It's very important that fish must be handled with care to prevent injuries, make sure to release them back in the water as quickly as possible. To ensure a healthy release, fish must be revived until its strong enough to swim away.
The Hump
The sexually ripe male is normally identified by a pronounced forehead "hump" of fatty tissue that is stimulated by sexual maturity. Recent scientific evidence also exists that some females may exhibit a small "hump" as well. The hump is reabsorbed within several weeks after spawning.
The hump usually appears on males when they are sexually mature which is around a year old or so.
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