Everglades Beginner Bass Fishing | Capt Lou Guide

Published Date: September 15, 2025
Fishing

Fort Lauderdale, FL
$250 - $850 price range

Summary

Ready for a laid-back afternoon of bass fishing in the Everglades? This 4-hour guided trip is perfect if you're new to angling or just want to explore the unique ecosystem. Your local captain knows all the prime spots in the flats and backwaters where Largemouth and Peacock bass hang out. But that's not all – you might also hook into some exotic species like Oscar or Mayan cichlid, or tangle with native fighters like Alligator gar. Don't worry about gear or know-how; everything's provided, including hands-on instruction from your guide. It's a great way to get your feet wet (figuratively speaking) in Everglades fishing. By the end of the trip, you'll have a solid feel for casting, spotting fish, and hopefully reeling in a few good ones. Just remember your camera – the scenery alone is worth capturing.

Everglades Beginner Bass Fishing | Capt Lou Guide

Everglades Bass Bonanza

Catching vibrant Peacock Bass now

Bass frenzy in Everglades waters

Angler fishing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Bass landed by angler

Angler with a peacock bass in Fort Lauderdale

Everglades fishing: Peacock Bass

Everglades Bass Bonanza: Beginner's Dream Trip

Hey there, angler! Ready to dive into the heart of Florida's fishing paradise? This 4-hour afternoon charter in the Everglades is tailor-made for newcomers looking to tangle with some of the most exciting freshwater fish around. We're talking Largemouth and Peacock bass, folks – the kind of fish that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. But that's not all – the Everglades has a few more surprises up its sleeve. Let's get you prepped for a day on the water you won't forget!

Trip Overview

Picture this: You're gliding through the Everglades' maze of flats and backwaters, rod in hand, with a seasoned pro at the helm. That's right, you'll be fishing with none other than Capt Lou, a local legend who knows these waters like the back of his hand. This ain't no ordinary fishing trip – it's a crash course in bass fishing, Everglades style. We'll hit up the honey holes where the big boys hang out, and you'll learn the ropes from a guy who lives and breathes this stuff. And hey, don't sweat the gear – we've got you covered with top-notch equipment and all the know-how you need to start hauling 'em in.

What to Expect on the Water

Alright, let's talk tactics. We'll be working the flats and backwaters, using a mix of techniques to entice those bass. Might be tossing soft plastics around structure, working topwater lures across lily pads, or finessing some live bait – whatever's getting the job done that day. Capt Lou's got a sixth sense for what the fish want, and he'll clue you in on every trick in the book. And while we're laser-focused on those Largemouth and Peacocks, don't be surprised if you hook into something wild like an Oscar or a Mayan cichlid. That's the beauty of the Everglades – you never know what might decide to crash the party!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

"I've had the pleasure of booking several fishing trips with Capt. Lou. Each trip was the fishing trip of a lifetime, and I keep coming back. Capt. Lou does an excellent job catering to all levels of angling experience. From beginners to expert all anglers have had a great time with Capt. Lou. Several anglers in my party have broken personal best records with peacock bass including a 118 fish day for myself and a buddy. I highly recommend Capt. Lou for lots of laughs, smiles, fish and a memorable day on the water." - Steve

Species You'll Want to Hook

Largemouth Bass: The crown jewel of freshwater fishing, these bruisers are what put the Everglades on the map. They love to hang out near structure – fallen trees, lily pads, you name it. When a big one hits, hold on tight! These guys can top 10 pounds and put up a fight that'll test your drag and your biceps. Spring and fall are prime times, but in the Everglades, it's always bass o'clock.

Peacock Bass: Now here's a fish that'll make your heart race. Imported from South America, these gorgeous fighters have made themselves right at home in Florida's warm waters. They're aggressive, hard-hitting, and when they're on, they're ON. We're talking multiple hookups and drag-screaming runs. Best part? They love the heat, so summer is prime time for Peacock action. Keep an eye out for their telltale blue-green coloration and those iconic eyespots.

Bowfin: Hold onto your hats, folks – if you hook one of these prehistoric beasts, you're in for a wild ride. Bowfin, also known as mudfish, are living fossils that fight like they've got something to prove. They've got a mean set of chompers and an attitude to match. These ambush predators love to lurk in the weedy areas and when they hit, it's like you've hooked a snapping turtle on steroids. They're not the prettiest fish in the 'Glades, but man, are they fun to catch!

Time to Book Your Spot

Listen up, anglers – if you're itching to get your bass fix in one of the most unique fisheries on the planet, this is your chance. Whether you're looking to notch your first Largemouth or chase that bucket-list Peacock, Capt Lou's got the skills to make it happen. With all the gear provided and a boatload of local knowledge, you're set up for success from the moment you step aboard. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot, bring a buddy (remember, this trip's good for two), and get ready to make some waves in the Everglades. Trust me, once you've fished these waters with Capt Lou, you'll be counting the days till you can come back for more. Let's get you on the water and into some fish!

Customer Review

Catch of a Lifetime

I've had the pleasure of booking several fishing trips with Capt. Lou. Each trip was the fishing trip of a lifetime, and I keep coming back. Capt. Lou does an excellent job catering to all levels of angling experience. From beginners to expert all anglers have had a great time with Capt. Lou. Several anglers in my party have broken personal best records with peacock bass including a 118 fish day for myself and a buddy. I highly recommend Capt. Lou for lots of laughs, smiles, fish and a memorable day on the water.

Steve Wayne

March 10, 2025

Learn more about the species

Bowfin

Bowfin are a prehistoric-looking fish that can put up one heck of a fight. They typically grow 18-24 inches long and love hanging out in weedy, swampy areas of the Everglades. These guys can breathe air, so they thrive in low-oxygen waters where other fish struggle. Bowfin are most active at night, making them a fun target for evening fishing trips. Anglers love 'em for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs. To land one, try using cut bait like bluegill chunks near thick vegetation. Just watch those teeth when you're unhooking them – bowfin can be pretty snappy! While they're not known for great eating, the thrill of catching a "living fossil" makes bowfin a unique Everglades experience. Best times to target them are spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate.

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth bass are the rockstars of freshwater fishing here in the Everglades. These green-backed bruisers typically range from 2-5 pounds, but trophy fish over 10 pounds aren't unheard of. You'll find them lurking around submerged logs, vegetation edges, and deep holes. Spring is prime time when they're in the shallows spawning, but fall can be dynamite too. Bass are ambush predators, so working lures near cover is key. Topwater action at dawn and dusk can be explosive. Locals swear by big plastic worms in junebug color, especially when it's overcast. Bass put up a great fight with acrobatic jumps, and their big bucket mouths make for some awesome photos. While they're decent eating, most folks here practice catch-and-release to keep the fishery strong. One tip: when you feel that telltale 'tick' on your line, pause before setting the hook. Let 'em take it for a second – you'll hook up more often.

Peacock Bass

Peacock bass are the tropical bullies of South Florida's canals. These colorful fighters usually run 2-4 pounds, but can top 7 in the right spots. Look for them in warm, slower-moving waters, especially near bridges or fallen trees. Peacocks are aggressive and love to smash lures, making for some heart-stopping topwater action. They're most active during daylight hours, so no need for crack-of-dawn starts. Spring and fall are peak seasons when water temps are just right. Anglers love peacocks for their stunning looks and hard-fighting spirit – they'll test your drag for sure. Live shiners are peacock candy, but flashy jerkbaits work great too. One local trick: focus on canal intersections during falling water levels. The fish stack up there as they move out of the shallows. Just remember, these guys can't handle cold, so fishing slows way down if we get a rare cool snap.

About the Vexus AVX 1880

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3

Manufacturer Name: Mercury ProXs

Maximum Cruising Speed: 42

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 115

Picture yourself gliding through the shallow waters of the Florida Everglades on a sleek and nimble flats boat. This specialized vessel is designed for stealthy navigation in skinny water, allowing you to access prime fishing spots where largemouth and peacock bass lurk. With a stable platform and plenty of deck space, you'll have room to cast comfortably as your experienced captain maneuvers into position. The boat's low profile helps you stay hidden from wary fish, while its shallow draft lets you explore backwaters and hidden channels teeming with exotic species. Equipped with all the necessary fishing gear and safety equipment, this craft provides the perfect mobile base for your 4-hour Everglades fishing adventure. Whether you're a complete novice or looking to hone your skills, this boat offers an ideal setup for learning and practicing various bass fishing techniques in one of Florida's most iconic ecosystems.

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