Experience Florida’s Exotic Freshwater Sportfish South Florida is home to one of the most unique freshwater fisheries in the United States: the vibrant and aggressive peacock bass. Originally introduced to South Florida canals in the 1980s by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to help control invasive fish populations, peacock bass quickly became one of Florida’s most sought-after sportfish due to their explosive strikes, aggressive behavior, and incredible fighting power. Unlike traditional largemouth bass, peacock bass are visual predators known for crushing lures, ambushing baitfish, and making powerful drag-screaming runs once hooked. For many anglers, catching their first peacock bass becomes an obsession.