Lures can be more effective that live bait as the presentation is always consistent.

The Speckled Peacock Bass was initially introduced into the canals, lakes and rivers in Florida, where there is a large population of Peacock Bass as they were first introduced in 1950 and subsequent subspecies have been introduced since the mid 1980s. However, there is wide consensus that the Speckled Peacock Bass did not survive the introduction so our focus will be on techniques for the Speckled Peacock Bass found in South American lagoons and rivers, which is it’s native stomping ground.

When fishing in South America, look for the Speckled Peacock Bass in lagoon areas just off a major river. During spawning, and after their young have hatched, Speckled Peacock Bass are very territorial and will aggressively defend it against any incursion.

While using live bait is a great way to catch bass, it can be difficult to keep live bait alive or obtain in some fishing locals in the Amazon basin. However, the use of eight- or nine-inch long lures with a spinner or spoon attached are very effective when fished in the peacock’s territory or around it’s young while they are still shadowing. Also, most major lodges carry a full range of tackle.

Make sure your line, equipment and tackle is capable of handling a twelve pound fighting fish for Florida waters and at least 30 pound test for South American waters. Line strength is not enough. Make sure to loosen your drag as the strike is abrupt and aggressive as the Peacock Bass usually charges the bait very fast and can snap the line if the drag is set to high. Once the hook is set, tighten up your drag.

Live Bait vs Lures

There are many lakes and lagoons in the Brazilian rain forest including the many lakes off the remote Baria river or the Casiquiare areas. The Agua Boa region also offers many great opportunities with over thirty-two lagoons and land locked lakes. Balance your equipment and tackle and don’t forget to get in shape as a full day of peacock bass fishing is quite the workout.

If you can get live bait, BassFishing-Gurus.com recommends using threadfin shad, tilapia, bluegills and mosquitofish.

Lures

Lures can be more effective that live bait as the presentation is always consistent. However, when fishing the Amazon, there are plenty of areas for lures to get snagged. If you are going to use lures, be sure that you have a spoon or spinner attached or are using a surface lure that creates the vibrations similar to that of a wounded fish. The waters of the Amazon are highly turbid, replicate sounds of wounded fish for better results.