Florida Peacock Bass Fishing Part II - LOAD WARNING

[JuanTamad]

In some places they say it's raining Cats and Dogs. Over here it's more like it's raining Peacock Bass. The heavy rains of the past couple afternoons have gotten them in the mood.
A five minute stroll to the area where Neo and Alex were coaxing a couple of PB to hit their lures revealed Four pairs spawning. One pair was right in the same spot on the rocks. On either side of the pair, maybe about 20 feet in each direction were two other pairs. There was also a pair with a male in the 18 inch range and a female of about 14 inch spawning around the bend before the other 3 pairs. When the sun returns I'll try to put that pair on film. In the menwhile, can't wait for the rain to stop.....

Pictures of many many many Peacocks coming....Watch this thread for the continuing saga of Fishing for PB in Florida in 2006.:D

[JuanTamad]

Here's the catch of the day, 19.5 incher. Released to fight another day.

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=20971&size=1


A closer look:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=20970&size=1

Today's supporting cast will be some folk's dinner! I was cleaning them when you called, Jed;) When back to the lake to catch the big one:D

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=20969&size=1

[davo]

nice. interesting colouring

[dacox]

Nice. That big one looks like he's been around the block a time or two.

[rocsorcs]

You definately can't catch stuff that is near that cool here in Texas. You guys are so lucky.

[sundaysuit]

nice catch man

[Steve_89]

Those would have gone straight into my tank.

[neoprodigy]

i gotta move down there with you matt....

[lizardfishman]

nice catches. the pbass never spawn in my canal:( . i did see a pair w/ 4" fry though. have u ever seen the babys attack minnows at the same time? wat type of plug are u using?

[JuanTamad]

i gotta move down there with you matt....

Interestingly, that pic with me and the PB was taken by a real estate agent showing a couple around the area. I may have helped her close the deal. The guy was asking about lures that fish likes in the area. Told him that anything he can cast in front of the fish works and sometimes they just jump right into my bucket.:D

[JuanTamad]

nice catches. the pbass never spawn in my canal:( . i did see a pair w/ 4" fry though. have u ever seen the babys attack minnows at the same time? wat type of plug are u using?

Some folks here have dropped cinder blocks in the water near where they lived. The PB likes to spawn on those. I've also seen PB lay eggs on rocks protruding from the walls on the lake where there are no beaches.

The baby Pbs attacking minnows is quite a sight. A pack of baby PBs would corral a bunch of minnows against a beach area and take turns feeding on them. Have not had the luck of seeing them do that with camera ready to shoot. It takes only several seconds for the whole action to happen.

My favorite lures have three treble hooks for hooking efficiency. I like the MirroLure twitchbaits the most, for their ability to hold the fish. I've had success with Rapala X-Raps and Husky lures too. The X-raps are great for blind casting for their ability to attract nearby fish from striking. Blind casting with dark colored plastic worms works with PB and large mouths around here too, in the early morning and late afternoon hours.

For nesting Pbs or fish with swimming fries, anything you can cast near the fish will produce hits. Its up to you to convert the hits into catches. I'd have to say go with your lure that you are most comfortable/confident with.

[lizardfishman]

im probably gunna do a little scoutin for pbass spots this week after the weather clears up. i know of a few places by me that have a lot of pbass and prime spawning areas.

[JuanTamad]

My congratulations goes to the "TRUST" for successfully breeding a pair at home. Inspired by that success I set out to day to find a pair suitable for breeding in a smaller tank than what Jed used for his setup.

Here's the result. My new pair, in their 20g long honeymoon tank. I made sure this pair was mated but has not laid the eggs yet;)

[JuanTamad]

I was just kidding about the 20g long tank as a breeding tank. It's actually their quarantine tank. Will probably move them to a 55 g tank which currently holds a much bigger pair.

The other catch today is a fish with dark dorsals similar to Jed's PBs. Caught it with a Rapala Husky Lure modified with hand drawn dots on the body of the lure as suggested by the Trust.
This fish struck the lure and was caught on the first cast:D

[Opiate]

damn!!! i wanna fish for p.bass!!

[lizardfishman]

dots on the body of the plug? i might try that

[The TRUST]

My congratulations goes to the "TRUST" for successfully breeding a pair at home. Inspired by that success I set out to day to find a pair suitable for breeding in a smaller tank than what Jed used for his setup.

Here's the result. My new pair, in their 20g long honeymoon tank. I made sure this pair was mated but has not laid the eggs yet;)

:ROFL: :ROFL: :ROFL: 20G :ROFL: :ROFL: :ROFL:

BTW I remeasured the spawning area it was only 33"x24"

[The TRUST]

I was just kidding about the 20g long tank as a breeding tank. It's actually their quarantine tank. Will probably move them to a 55 g tank which currently holds a much bigger pair.

The other catch today is a fish with dark dorsals similar to Jed's PBs. Caught it with a Rapala Husky Lure modified with hand drawn dots on the body of the lure as suggested by the Trust.
This fish struck the lure and was caught on the first cast:D

Actually I was told to use a Red Sharpie so it's appears as it the fish is injured. But hey if black works then that is cool as well. LOL!

[JuanTamad]

This Male PB measured over 20 inches and was released to tend its nest together with the female which remained unmolested:)

Pic with my favorite twitchbait and lucky fishing cap:D :woot: :headbang2

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21530&size=1

[The TRUST]

WOW! That's some red he's got on him!!!!

[dmarinko]

cool

[Pangong_ilong]

Very cool.

[JuanTamad]

Went fishing at about 8 PM earlier tonight and caught 1 PB that was about 10 inch at 8:30 and quit after accidentally cutting my finger with the hook trying to get it out of the fish's mouth in the semi-darkness Of the Florida Suburban Jungle.:(

Smallest catch for the year and slowest fishing trip for the year too. Kept the fish for my tanks. Will try to take a picture of the fish tomorrow morning.

[Honda12]

Love that last male Pbass.

[Super G]

I want to set up a PBASS operation with 4-5 pairs

[JuanTamad]

I want to set up a PBASS operation with 4-5 pairs

How many pairs did you get?

[JuanTamad]

Went fishing at about 8 PM earlier tonight and caught 1 PB that was about 10 inch at 8:30 and quit after accidentally cutting my finger with the hook trying to get it out of the fish's mouth in the semi-darkness Of the Florida Suburban Jungle.:(

Smallest catch for the year and slowest fishing trip for the year too. Kept the fish for my tanks. Will try to take a picture of the fish tomorrow morning.

Last night's catch, got released; saw a better looking target today.

Pic of smallest catch so far. Turned to be 11 inches.

[JuanTamad]

The first catch of the day in live well. Potentially deep fried whole fish if I catch another one.:D

This one is at least 12".

[Honda12]

Nice catch, like the 12incher.

[The TRUST]

WOW! Their colors are UN-Effin'-BELIEVABLE!!!!

[Super G]

How many pairs did you get?

I need some.

[JuanTamad]

Pbass fishing in the Summer heat is wearing me out.

Didn't have the energy to go back out yesterday. The Deep fried fresh fish dinner can wait.

I was out fishing for about 45 minutes this morning and caught a second fish for potential fried fish, maybe next week. This one is about 14".

Here are the two in live well:

[SphericalCube]

Nice catch. . . Did you keep any?

[JuanTamad]

Nice catch. . . Did you keep any?

I have the two in the live well in the picture:)

[Tacklethedovii]

Thanks for sharing all your pbass fishing reports. I have enjoyed reading them. You have some great pictures. Good luck with your next fishing trip.

[JuanTamad]

It took about 15 minutes to get to where this fish was, make a couple of casts, catch it, biked back home with it to join the other two I already have. :D

The wife has 3 friends who asked for a fish each. I just made their weekend and mine too catching their fish.

This one is 13 ".

[The TRUST]

You guys gonna deep fry the pbass?

[JuanTamad]

You guys gonna deep fry the pbass?

Not me. My wife's friends might. They don't have monster tanks. They have monster kitchens.;)

I have the whole week next week to catch the two I wanted to deep fry. Looking for 14 to 15 inch fishes for that. I'll make it three if you come for dinner.:D

[The TRUST]

LOL! I dont think I could ever eat Cichla.

I love them too much :)

[neoprodigy]

deeep fried sound intresting.... we gotta do that next time... catch and fried!!!!

[JuanTamad]

deeep fried sound intresting.... we gotta do that next time... catch and fried!!!!

There's plenty of 3 to 5 inch PB fries swimming around the lake now. They should be perfect frying size by next spring. Catch and fried or grilled!!!

[JuanTamad]

This dude was the toughest to land this year. I thought I hooked up with my record fish. Turned out it was hooked by the gills and was swimming broadside against the reel in.

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21697&size=1

The following were much easier to catch with the digicam, that is.

A white heron flying off with a baby duck

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21696&size=1

The heron landing on the other side with the baby still in its beak

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21699&size=1

A turtle enjoying the sun. Normally they are skittish and dives in the water when approached

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21698

Don't really know what bird this is. But it looked cool....

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21695

This would have been a real "monster catch". Showed no interests in the twitchbait, rapalas, or Jed's lures

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21700&size=1

[The TRUST]

There's plenty of 3 to 5 inch PB fries swimming around the lake now. They should be perfect frying size by next spring. Catch and fried or grilled!!!

3-5" huh?

If you fry them now at that size, you can call them DILIS!!! :ROFL:

[JuanTamad]

PB as bagoong is even more promising!

My wife thinks newly free swimming fries would make good bagoong. I tell her it would be very expensive bagoong, more expensive than caviar...:ROFL:

[The TRUST]

LOL! BAGOONG! LOL!

You can use the Manga behind ur house!

Green Manga with Bagoong!!!!

[JuanTamad]

Exactly!:ROFL:

[JuanTamad]

No particular target today. So just went around the lake on my bike. A couple of kids on one of the beaches were pointing out some PB beyond the swimming area. Could not see them but made a cast anyway in the direction they were pointing at.

Caught my first Large Mouth in over 3 years on the first cast of my modified Husky lure:)

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21751&size=1

Caught a 12 inch Female PB on subsequent casts. A pic just before it was released today:D

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21750&size=1

[The TRUST]

DAMN! That was one greedy LMB LOL!

The lure is about half his size.

[redtailfool]

That last pic is a monster !! the only lure that would work on that is money. =)

[Honda12]

That last pic is a monster !! the only lure that would work on that is money. =)

Money for melons lol.

[JuanTamad]

That last pic is a monster !! the only lure that would work on that is money. =)

You could be right!

Makes you wonder who was casting the lures;)

[The TRUST]

Here's how u rig it. :ROFL:

[JuanTamad]

Here's how u rig it. :ROFL:

Jed you should PM that to your pareng Redtailfool. If you check closely that Monster has redtail (Technically red micropants;) )

Unless the overflowing tank top is distorting your vision, it should be very clear it's a redtail.:ROFL:

[JuanTamad]

This 15 inch fella fell for an X-rap lure in about 8 inch of water. The X-rap hooks are very easy to take off the fish. This guy has a very nice chance of surviving to eventually live in one of my breeding tanks.:)

[JuanTamad]

This one could not survive the fight and the Summer heat. It's headed for the freezer for Friday's Fish Fry:)

[neoprodigy]

This one could not survive the fight and the Summer heat. It's headed for the freezer for Friday's Fish Fry:)
fedex some fried pbass to me... :)

[JuanTamad]

fedex some fried pbass to me... :)

I caught this around 10 am, today. For me that's very early! It's about 16 inches and Male

Took it home due to all the blood it was losing. Currently in one of my PB ICU tanks. If it survives, I'll train it to swim to your place. Please PM your address ASAP. You may cook it anyway you wish.:ROFL:

[JuanTamad]

I believed the previous catch was a Male. Had to go back to retrieve my gloves and fishing pliers. I noticed a bigger fish was defending the area where I caught the earlier catch. Hmm...could this be the male?

So I had to catch it and it is the female which happens to be bigger than the male. This one is 17 inch:D

It's pictured with my 4 inch x-rap lure which got it inside the gill cover and under its throat , too:(

[The TRUST]

OMG!

BLOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[JuanTamad]

OMG!

BLOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Thankfully it's not of human origin:)

Also on my ride home I noticed two new targets, perfect size for food:)

Watch for four PB pics tomorrow! Some will be released:D

[JuanTamad]

Fishing Interrupted.:(

Went to catch the targets I saw yesterday But there was a beached monster occupying the area where I would be casting for them:eek:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21968&size=1

I had to backtrack and go all around the lake to give the beached monster sufficient time to finish whatever:(

Two hours later I caught the following 17 inch male PB which was released. This one broke my line after it was landed!

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21967

[JuanTamad]

Just dig in.

Please leave the head and eyes for me. They are my favorite parts:D

[The TRUST]

Fishing Interrupted.:(

Went to catch the targets I saw yesterday But there was a beached monster occupying the area where I would be casting for them:eek:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21968&size=1

I had to backtrack and go all around the lake to give the beached monster sufficient time to finish whatever:(



Did you try this lure?

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=34183&stc=1&d=1150839532

I bet it would have moved her from her spot. :ROFL:

[The TRUST]

Just dig in.

Please leave the head and eyes for me. They are my favorite parts:D

HEY! that looks like Fried Bangus! Did you eat it with Datu Puti Suka?

DA TABA! EAT DA TABA! :ROFL:

[JuanTamad]

Did you try this lure?

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=34183&stc=1&d=1150839532

I bet it would have moved her from her spot. :ROFL:

No...Actually I thought It was a beached mammal near death. Almost tried mouth to mouth resuscitation.:naughty: :naughty: :naughty:

However, my fishing instincts took over and went looking for other targets.:ROFL:

Hey! it's not my job to save lives. I was sent here to fish.:ROFL: :ROFL: :ROFL:

[neoprodigy]

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=21968&size=1




i remember her.... i saw her down the pool..... nishant and i was staring at her for good 2 mins.... :drool:

[Timpon]

Thats a nice nuchal 'hump' on that beach monster

[neoprodigy]

Thats a nice nuchal 'hump' on that beach monster

yup.....:thumbsup: there is alot of those monsters running around half naked in that fishing spot... :drool:

[JuanTamad]

yup.....:thumbsup: there is alot of those monsters running around half naked in that fishing spot... :drool:

Was that why you and Alex and Nishant stayed in that spot extra long? I thought you guys were going after those huge PB!:D

No wonder u guys couldn't cast right!:ROFL:

I've caught five PBs in that spot since you guys were here. Two of them were over 17 inches:)

[The TRUST]

Was that why you and Alex and Nishant stayed in that spot extra long? I thought you guys were going after those huge PB!:D

No wonder u guys couldn't cast right!:ROFL:

I've caught five PBs in that spot since you guys were here. Two of them were over 17 inches:)

Was that the very first spot where we spotted the first pbass near the beach area but I decided to look for another spot?

I was wondering the same thing why the guys decided to keep trying that spot for so long :ROFL:

[JuanTamad]

DA TABA! EAT DA TABA! :ROFL:

Done!:ROFL:

Nice new monster avatar. It would look better with the tail of PB sticking out:ROFL:

[Timpon]

Was that the very first spot where we spotted the first pbass near the beach area but I decided to look for another spot?

I was wondering the same thing why the guys decided to keep trying that spot for so long :ROFL:

Persistence sometimes pay off Trust, or so we can all hope

[doubleA]

you could of done better

[Thomascl]

awesome catch mate

[JuanTamad]

Was that the very first spot where we spotted the first pbass near the beach area but I decided to look for another spot?

I was wondering the same thing why the guys decided to keep trying that spot for so long :ROFL:

That's the one! :D

Also, caught a breeding pair today on the far side of the beach near my place. Pics later, caught them when it started raining!

[JuanTamad]

15 inch male Released.

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=22025&size=1


13 inch female Kept.

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=22024&size=1

[The TRUST]

WOW! Those colors are sooooooooooooo beautiful!

[JD7.62]

Me and my girl might be going down there this summer.

I sure would like to catch some cichla!

I wonder if a 17" fish would fit as a carry on? :naughty:

[JuanTamad]

Caught this one on the Husky lure modified with black dots on the body. 13 inch, female is a keeper.:D

[Zorro]

This 15 inch fella fell for an X-rap lure in about 8 inch of water. The X-rap hooks are very easy to take off the fish. This guy has a very nice chance of surviving to eventually live in one of my breeding tanks.:)

X raps are becoming one of my favs. Theres no PB in CT but there are LMB and some SM.

[Timpon]

Jeez Juan.....its looks like you are single handedly decimating the bass population in Florida LOL.

That's just jealousy talking by the way. Peacocks that size go for hundreds of dollars over here, if you can find any that is.

[JuanTamad]

Jeez Juan.....its looks like you are single handedly decimating the bass population in Florida LOL.

That's just jealousy talking by the way. Peacocks that size go for hundreds of dollars over here, if you can find any that is.

I'm almost done for the year! 15 more and that's it. I'd have established my own personal record of 77 for a season. After that I'll just be going for 22 inch fish or more.

Most of the keepers are given away for free and a few make it to my tanks. The joy of tracking them and catching them is priceless:D

There's thousands of 3 - 5 inch fries swimming in our lake growing to take the place many times over the ones that were unfortunate enough to catch my lures.;)

[dredcon]

Nice catches, I may have to make a detour on my next evergaldes trip.

[neoprodigy]

I'm almost done for the year! 15 more and that's it. I'd have established my own personal record of 77 for a season. After that I'll just be going for 22 inch fish or more.

Most of the keepers are given away for free and a few make it to my tanks. The joy of tracking them and catching them is priceless:D

There's thousands of 3 - 5 inch fries swimming in our lake growing to take the place many times over the ones that were unfortunate enough to catch my lures.;)
do you have extra bed room for the pbass season? i would like to rent one... :)

[JuanTamad]

do you have extra bed room for the pbass season? i would like to rent one... :)

How about an extra house? might have one soon!:ROFL:

[JuanTamad]

It appears that the PB shows better coloring in the Summertime. I've noticed that most of the ones I've been catching lately have the dark colored Dorsals and their body coloring are brighter and the stripes of the females are more defined:)

Caught this 13 inch female earlier today before it got too hot to do much of anything under the Summer Sun here:(

[The TRUST]

Those dorsals are definitely getting darker

Great Catch Matt!

[neoprodigy]

How about an extra house? might have one soon!:ROFL:

wow... cool.... so how much just to rent the whole pbass fishing season??

[redtailfool]

look at the color on that one.. hot damn.

[pbassboy]

Beautiful catch of the day wouldnt mind having it.

[JuanTamad]

Actually it just happened. First fishing day with zero, zip, nada catches.:cry:

And it wasn't due to lack of suitable targets. Had quality shots at 10 different fish, and numerous hard strikes. But zero hookups.:(

Fortunately decided to go home just it time to escape the pouring rain.

[redtailfool]

sorry to hear JT .. but the lake is right beside you so theres always a next time.

Jed - who is that in your avatar ? VS??

[The TRUST]

Damn that sux Pare. No fish :(

Oh the guy in my Avatar is Demon Kogure.

[JuanTamad]

For all you MFKer out there, this one is for you. Caught this one on my first cast today. This one is a 17.5 inch male PB.:D

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=22149&size=1

My new favorite fishing attire:)

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=22150&size=1

[rayman45]

:)

[The TRUST]

WHOA! ANG GANDA NG KULAY!!!!!

That looks sweet as hell!

[freeskierrocket]

WHOA! ANG GANDA NG KULAY!!!!!

That looks sweet as hell!

WOW.......what he said............noice bro!!:clap

[JuanTamad]

WHOA! ANG GANDA NG KULAY!!!!!

That looks sweet as hell!

Jed,

What's with the changing Avatars!:ROFL:

[MrRngr94]

So when I get back home you're gonna take me fishing with you, right? Do they bite year round or do they usually slow down in winter?

[JuanTamad]

So when I get back home you're gonna take me fishing with you, right? Do they bite year round or do they usually slow down in winter?

They slow down November through March unless there is unexpected heavy rains. Rains precedes good fishing for PB;) Around here anyways.

[JuanTamad]

30 days in June 30 PBs caught.:)

More than half were released.:D

Let me see. 31 days in July? 12 PBs will make 77 for year, and that's it. I think....

[JuanTamad]

Caught the male PB below that was 15.5 inch after a few cast. Got the hook off in seconds. Was thinking perfect for breeding tank and placed it inside fish bag to float on the water while I catch its partner. That's when what seems to be an easy catch turned into the most difficult, so far.

It tried to jump out of the bag, causing me to drop the bag, and the bag with it landed on my lure and got tangled with the treble hooks on the lure:(

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=22158&size=1

The bag with the lure::WHOA:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=22157&size=1


I tried to untangle the hooks. After what seems like an eternity, gave up and threw the bag with the fish in the water to save it.

Hooked up with the other fish which promptly dove into some weeds got off the hook and left my other lure tangled up with weeds. Managed to save the lure. Decided to try to take the lure that tangled up with the bag with fish in it in the water. I would free one hook then managed to tangle up the other hooks. After 15 minutes of this and after puncturing my thumb with one of the hooks gave up again and threw the bag and fish back in the water.

Found the other fish again, hooked it again. This time it managed to get behind some rocks. Somehow got off the hook and left my lure stuck in the rocks. After wading in the water and got into position to free my lure, gave up for the day:(

When about to open my front door, cell phone rings. Guess who's calling? Neo.....:confused:

What a day!!!...At least I'll have fresh fish on the grill tonight:) Many Thanks, Li. You killed a stud of a PB in my bucket:swear: :swear: Just kidding, this fish was destined to be food.;)

[The TRUST]

WOW that sounds like quite a tiring day you had!

[The TRUST]

Jed,

What's with the changing Avatars!:ROFL:

Wala. I just felt like doing so. LOL

[JuanTamad]

Pouring rain outside. Not good for today's fishing.:(

Could be prelude, maybe deluge, of big catches in the coming weeks...;)

[MrRngr94]

Is this what you do for a living? I mean don't you ever have to work?

[JuanTamad]

Is this what you do for a living? I mean don't you ever have to work?

These days, its what I live for:)

Work? what's that?...LOL

[MrRngr94]

Man! I wish I could say that!

[JuanTamad]

Dodged two lightning strikes to land this one.

For a few moments I felt like I may have looked like Redtailfool's Avatar! LOL

[The TRUST]

Whoa that one looks like it fought hard!

[JuanTamad]

Whoa that one looks like it fought hard!

Much harder than anticipated. Actually had to wade in the water to get it out of some rocks.

It didn't look a big in the shimerring water kicked up by the winds.

Turned out to be close to 20 inch and female. Probably the largest female PB I've ever landed.

It's still alive in one of my ICU holding tanks. Will decide what to do with it in the A.M.:)

[JuanTamad]

Grillin and chillin on the Fourth of July. Stay safe out there!;)

[JuanTamad]

Baitless Fishing. (Warning: Graphic Violence Involved)

Only for the quick and really into monster fish catching:ROFL:
































http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=22454&size=1

[MrRngr94]

WTF????

[The TRUST]

ROFL! Ahahahahhaahhahahahahaha

[The TRUST]

MALANSA!!!!!!!!!!!! LOL!

[JuanTamad]

With the rains and the water changes I had to do today, I did not get to go fishing til 7 PM.

The lake is now much deeper due to the rains. The water has crept up the beaches which I favor for PB fishing by to 7 to 10 feet.

The spot where I had posted a picture of a "Beached Monster" is now underwater. I had to wade in the water up to 5 inches above the knee to find my favorite rock formations.

Fortunately, as I suspected, the rains did it again. A pair was just waiting to be caught.

The following male broke my light fishing rod in two when I tried to raise it over the rope line on the beach and had to grab it out of about 2 inches of water on the beach:WHOA:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=22575&size=1

Caught it's partner a few minutes later which somehow hexed my Penn 750SS reel on my Heavy duty tackle, which stopped cranking. Had to pull it in by hand:eek:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=22576&size=1

No choice but to keep them and make them pay for their mischief:naughty:

Monster Fish(es) - 19 inch Male and 15+ inch Female, both keepers for the wife's kitchen:)

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=22577&size=1

[JuanTamad]

70 as in Seventy

Yes sir that's my year to date count of PB caught so far this year. That's the same number I caught back in the year 2000 at the beginning of the new Millenium which was my highest number of PB landed at the time. Took a long break from fishing after that.

Will hang on to that number a day or two before establishing a new personal high count then run it up to 77, my goal for this year.

[The TRUST]

WHOA! That Peacock snapped your pole in half???? DANG! must have been some fight!

70 Ps!!!! Now that is a lot of fish!!!!

[The TRUST]

You should try landing that pacu!

[CichlidPharmer]

You should try landing that pacu!

Yeah, man!

[JuanTamad]

The Pacus, can wait. I'm fattening them up.;)

After I get to 77 PB they will be next and there's also this group of 4 MONSTER Large Mouths I've observed patrolling the shorelines:D

[Diamondhitch]

Juan, your fishing stories inspired me to try fishing for Pbass myself. Unfortunately my JD was the only thing biting!...

[The TRUST]

The Pacus, can wait. I'm fattening them up.;)

After I get to 77 PB they will be next and there's also this group of 4 MONSTER Large Mouths I've observed patrolling the shorelines:D

I'm definitely going to try to get that pacu next time I'm down there. that thing must give off a monster fight too!

Those Largemouths we saw underthe bridge were pretty big, not bites from them though :(

[JuanTamad]

I'm definitely going to try to get that pacu next time I'm down there. that thing must give off a monster fight too!

Those Largemouths we saw under the bridge were pretty big, not bites from them though :(

For the Pacu, remember to pack chicken Liver, for the Large Mouths, dark colored plastic worms would do just fine;)

[The TRUST]

For the Pacu, remember to pack chicken Liver, for the Large Mouths, dark colored plastic worms would do just fine;)

Sounds like a plan. Can't wait to fish your lake again next year. This time we'll do 2 days. 1 day just isn't enough time to cover the whole lake. :(

[JuanTamad]

Sounds like a plan. Can't wait to fish your lake again next year. This time we'll do 2 days. 1 day just isn't enough time to cover the whole lake. :(

Remember to pack a bike too if you want to cover the whole lake in two days;)

That's seven miles of fishable shoreline:D

The 70 mark is proving to be tougher to crack than imagined:( The weather has been conspiring to prevent me from fishing:cry:

Tomorrow will be fishing day, rain or shine. Gotta test out my new fishing gear!

[The TRUST]

Remember to pack a bike too if you want to cover the whole lake in two days;)

That's seven miles of fishable shoreline:D

The 70 mark is proving to be tougher to crack than imagined:( The weather has been conspiring to prevent me from fishing:cry:

Tomorrow will be fishing day, rain or shine. Gotta test out my new fishing gear!

Funny you mention bikes. I was thinking about that. You got room to store a bike or 2 dow there? LOL I may just buy a used one from Craigslist or something. LOL

[The TRUST]

I need to stay at a hotel near your place. I really enjoyed that lake a lot.

[JuanTamad]

Nice new Avatar. Finally had that sex change, huh.:ROFL:

and What's a Fukitol?

[JuanTamad]

Rain I can handle. Winds, thunder, and lightning are something else. It's scary out there.:eek:

[JuanTamad]

Finally got my #71 for the year to break my previous personal record!:headbang2

I did it in between downpours. If these rains doesn't let up, I could be fishing for PB from my rooftop.:(

Dream Bucket full of PB:woot:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=22734&size=1

[The TRUST]

YAY! Finally broke the record!!

FUKITOL is this:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=32523

[JuanTamad]

YAY! Finally broke the record!!

FUKITOL is this:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=32523

Fishing for PB works better.;)

[The TRUST]

Fishing for PB works better.;)

I know!!!!

tell me about it!!!

that is why I want to move to FL. If I get so stressed I just go fish for PBass on my way home from work!! PERFECT!!!!

[JuanTamad]

Took a breather from my fishkeeping and the setup of new tanks and went fishing for about 30 minutes. Caught a 13 inch female. Just realized every catch from hereon this year is a record breaker!:D

Actually hooked its partner first but lost it when it jumped out of the water:(

[The TRUST]

WOO! #72!!

Have the waters receeded?

[JuanTamad]

WOO! #72!!

Have the waters receeded?

Yes it has. There's about 10 feet of beach area back near our house. Most of it disappeared after the recent rains. The waters are still cloudy, making it difficult to see the fish.

Today, I walked the route you guys made when u were here last May. Saw two pairs with huge schools of fries in tow:drool: Unfortunately I did not have anything to catch them or even take pictures:(

I did see a female PB tending to some newly laid eggs though in an area that has a lot of foot traffic and also frequented by anglers. Will probably just watch it develop.

Will fish the area on the other side of the bridge tomorrow.

The voice in "THIS" in your signature sounds just like u when u catched that monster PB:grinyes:

[The TRUST]

The voice in "THIS" in your signature sounds just like u when u catched that monster PB:grinyes:


:ROFL::ROFL::ROFL::ROFL::ROFL:

[JuanTamad]

Supposed to be a catch and release day. Went fishing with only light tackle, no bike, no bucket, nothing else.

First catch got hooked in the gills. Could not take the hooks out. and had to walk home and forced to keep the fish and made the day another fish fry for dinner situation.

# 73 is 16 inch male

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=23323&size=1

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=23321&size=1

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=23320&size=1

Had to go back to make it a worthwhile fish fry night:D Got # 74 a 13 inch female

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=23319&size=1

# 75 is a male at 18.5 inches:)

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=23322&size=1

[The TRUST]

Awesome catches Mat! At the rate you're going, you just might be able to hit 100 this year!

[JuanTamad]

100? A nice even number:)



Appears to be a worthwhile goal!

[DeLgAdO]

omg....SEND ME ONE!!!

wait i take it back.....dont

would be a by by to my loaches :(

[The TRUST]

100? A nice even number:)



Appears to be a worthwhile goal!

Only problem with that is you will now aim for a nice number and would probably aim for 200 next year. lol

[JuanTamad]

Caught this female PB between 8 and 9 PM today. I've observed this fish and its partner hanging around some weeds near shore the last three evenings. They show up around 8 PM everytime. Thought they would be perfect for making my earlier goal of 77 for the year.

Actually hooked both of them but both got away the first time. They moved away and were followed for about 10 paces while casting my favorite twitchbait. After about 10 minutes they headed back to their hangout. By this time, it was dark and all that was visible were two dark shadows under water. After about 10 casts this female obliged:) and was landed and released after about 5 minutes of fumbling in the dark trying to get it off the hooks. Hard to see anything after that.

#77 will have to wait another day.

[The TRUST]

Caught this female PB between 8 and 9 PM today. I've observed this fish and its partner hanging around some weeds near shore the last three evenings. They show up around 8 PM everytime. Thought they would be perfect for making my earlier goal of 77 for the year.

Actually hooked both of them but both got away the first time. They moved away and were followed for about 10 paces while casting my favorite twitchbait. After about 10 minutes they headed back to their hangout. By this time, it was dark and all that was visible were two dark shadows under water. After about 10 casts this female obliged:) and was landed and released after about 5 minutes of fumbling in the dark trying to get it off the hooks. Hard to see anything after that.

#77 will have to wait another day.

WOOO!!! You just might get your 100 Pbass this year!

[JuanTamad]

WOOO!!! You just might get your 100 Pbass this year!

100 is actually only 24 catches away, and the season has much more left.:)

I'm taking it easy though. Just hunting now for 17 inch or bigger fish.

Today, I caught 100+ inches of fish.:D But they were all 1/4 inch to 1 inch only. They are feeders for my growing PBs.

[neoprodigy]

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=38299&stc=1&thumb=1&d=1153707625

MFK represent !!!!!

[neoprodigy]

100 is actually only 24 catches away, and the season has much more left.:)

I'm taking it easy though. Just hunting now for 17 inch or bigger fish.

Today, I caught 100+ inches of fish.:D But they were all 1/4 inch to 1 inch only. They are feeders for my growing PBs.
go 100....

[The TRUST]

Try using this Rapala. LOL

[JuanTamad]

Try using this Rapala. LOL

Fiirst I have to find tackle I can use to cast that monster!

Actually, the local Sports Authority has something as big or bigger than that. Can work for Moby Dick, Maybe....:ROFL:

[The TRUST]

Fiirst I have to find tackle I can use to cast that monster!

LOL! Yeah! This sucker is so huge that it will make putol your line and bali your pole. :ROFL:

[JuanTamad]

I really mean #77 is in the bag!:mwave:

See for yourself:D

...17 inch+ In the bag.....:grinyes:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=23436&size=1

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/showphoto.php/photo/23436/size/big/cat/912

It's in the bag and in the bucket too:naughty:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=23438&size=1

And .....on the carpet or grass

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=23437&size=1

And framed by a previous monster catch memorabilia....

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=23435&size=1

[The TRUST]

that's a nice one!!!! Ur making me want to go fish there right now!!!!

[redtailfool]

LOL.. that is one big bait jed.. what do you use that on ?? Great Whites??

[The TRUST]

LOL.. that is one big bait jed.. what do you use that on ?? Great Whites??

it's actually for display on walls, but Rapala claims that you can still use it and should swim the same way their other lures do.

My gueess would be some sort of SW Monster would go after it.

[HiGhTiMeZ]

haaaaaaaaa!!! kuya juan! i really enjoyed reading this thread from page1 to 16!!!
my god! u made my day!!! or prolly may year!!! kuya i wanna go fishin wif u! waaaaahhhh!
i want a pbass in my tank too!!! they cost too much here in canada! 80$ for an 8incher!
waaaaaaaaaahhhh kuya u wudve been a millionaire here!! :P :P :P

[The TRUST]

haaaaaaaaa!!! kuya juan! i really enjoyed reading this thread from page1 to 16!!!
my god! u made my day!!! or prolly may year!!! kuya i wanna go fishin wif u! waaaaahhhh!
i want a pbass in my tank too!!! they cost too much here in canada! 80$ for an 8incher!
waaaaaaaaaahhhh kuya u wudve been a millionaire here!! :P :P :P

Saan ka ba sa Canada? Sa BC ba??

[HiGhTiMeZ]

sa montreal po sir!
man the trust i enjoyed watching ur pbass vids! :headbang2

[JuanTamad]

Pause over...restart in progress.......

#78 in the bag....

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=24686&size=1

....and in quarantine, this one is 15 inches+....and still counting...

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=24687&size=1

[The TRUST]

I was wondering where ya went all of a sudden. LOL

[JuanTamad]

I was wondering where ya went all of a sudden. LOL

Just got too busy catching feeders for the growing population of monsters in the garage:D

[JuanTamad]

The countdown begins. #79 on the hook. 21 more to 100:D

Was not planning on catching anything this early. Took my light rod when the bait traps were set out this morning.

Was just straightening the line when I noticed that this fish followed the lure back. Hooked it after a dozen casts. With no bucket, net or pliers with me, this fish on the hook was walked back to the beach near home where I plucked it out of the water and was raced home for placement in a holding tank where I took out the hooks.

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=24701&size=1

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=24700&size=1

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=24699&size=1

[The TRUST]

AHAHAHHAHAHAHA! That's awesome! Good thing you weren't too far away.

[stotty]

You definately can't catch stuff that is near that cool here in Texas. You guys are so lucky.

:ROFL: Dam i wish i could get one of them on a lure. A nice lure caught shopping trolley they dont put up much of a fight though:D

[JuanTamad]

Breeding pair = #80 and #81.

The countdown continues. 19 to go.........

15 inch male.

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=24778&size=1

16 inch female.

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=24777&size=1

[milkman407]

Just to let u know u are my hero.. im comming to miami when u get your stock back in ( if u do) just to meet u. and ofcoure buy some Pbass

[JuanTamad]

Don't let the pictures fool you. Somebody called these fish unequivocably "monoculus" based on what appears to be dark eyes among other things on another thread.

Both these fish have red eyes and neither has mono looking jaws and I don't photoshop to change their appearance. I may have added text to some of the pictures here but none of the fish appearance was altered to make them look something they are not.

Who knows really what these fish are!. Ocellaris? or Monos?. Maybe a little bit of both. Officially, the fisheries folks here think they are Occies and call them Butterfly Peacock Bass.

[The TRUST]

WHOO! that male has got some hump!!!

If you reach 100 this year will you aim for 150 next year? Is that red hook a replacement Gamakatsu hook?

BTW the FL Cichla Species are labled as Ocelaris by the FL F&W but they are actually hybrids of Ocelaris, Monoculus and I believe maybe some temensis. Not 100% sure on the temensis cross, but Ocelaris and Mono for sure. that is why some of them have more Mono characteristics and some have more Ocelaris characteristics even if they come from the same parents.

[messiner]

hey juan, do you remove the barbs on the hooks?? you should replace the trebbels with single hooks even, especially if you intend to keep them. it makes me sad to see all those mir o lures stuck in all those cichla faces. im not critisizing but rather suggesting. im in FL and never even seen a wild PB. im such a loser.

[JuanTamad]

hey juan, do you remove the barbs on the hooks?? you should replace the trebbels with single hooks even, especially if you intend to keep them. it makes me sad to see all those mir o lures stuck in all those cichla faces. im not critisizing but rather suggesting. im in FL and never even seen a wild PB. im such a loser.

I hear you. Unfortunately, most of these catches, about half goes to the frying pan, some in mine but mostly in family friends'. Most of the rest are released and a few about 10% lives in one of my tanks for a while until somebody takes it from me or replaced by a better looking fish and the older catch released.

Tried using lures with less pronounced barbs but the results was lost fish too many times. I would suppose removing the barbs would lead to the same results of lost fish. I've used single hooks when I started out fishing for these guys using plastic worms and found it was too tiring having to make so many casts before getting a hookup. The treble hooks just works so much better for me and lures with 3 trebles gets me better results than 2 trebles. Also, the single hook setup tends to get swallowed deeper into the fish and very difficult to remove without killing the fish.

[JuanTamad]

WHOO! that male has got some hump!!!

If you reach 100 this year will you aim for 150 next year? Is that red hook a replacement Gamakatsu hook?

BTW the FL Cichla Species are labled as Ocelaris by the FL F&W but they are actually hybrids of Ocelaris, Monoculus and I believe maybe some temensis. Not 100% sure on the temensis cross, but Ocelaris and Mono for sure. that is why some of them have more Mono characteristics and some have more Ocelaris characteristics even if they come from the same parents.

Thanks for the clarification on the specie, Jed.

That replacement hook is a red Eagle claw treble. I lost one my Mirrolures to a monster rock. Had to put the Mirrolure with a twisted hook out of retirement and use it by replacing with the Eagle claw which I found in my tackle box. Now I keep at least 3 of the Mirros on hand just in case.

Good eyes, Jed. I did'n't even realize it look different in the pictures until you pointed it out. Don't know why the red eyes don't show though.

I get this crazy fishing for the Peacocks only once every 5 or 6 years.;)

[The TRUST]

Thanks for the clarification on the specie, Jed.

That replacement hook is a red Eagle claw treble. I lost one my Mirrolures to a monster rock. Had to put the Mirrolure with a twisted hook out of retirement and use it by replacing with the Eagle claw which I found in my tackle box. Now I keep at least 3 of the Mirros on hand just in case.

Good eyes, Jed. I did'n't even realize it look different in the pictures until you pointed it out. Don't know why the red eyes don't show though.

I get this crazy fishing for the Peacocks only once every 5 or 6 years.;)

Do the Red colored hooks work better? Do you notice any impovement on attracting more fish?

I need to get 1 of those lures for my tackle box when I get down there.

Peacock Fishing Crazy huh? Well, next year when we get down, let's all compete on who can catch the most Peacocks in 1 day :D My Rapalas are all itchin' for some action! This time I won't forget to bring my tackle box. Still kinda pissed I forgot to take it from the hotel room that day and had to borrow lures from you and Li. :(

[JuanTamad]

Do the Red colored hooks work better? Do you notice any impovement on attracting more fish?

I need to get 1 of those lures for my tackle box when I get down there.

Peacock Fishing Crazy huh? Well, next year when we get down, let's all compete on who can catch the most Peacocks in 1 day :D My Rapalas are all itchin' for some action! This time I won't forget to bring my tackle box. Still kinda pissed I forgot to take it from the hotel room that day and had to borrow lures from you and Li. :(


I'm getting more hook-ups with the red hooks which is in the front of the lure. Before the red hooks the hookups were mostly on the back treble, sometimes on the middle treble and rarely on the front treble.

You may have one of my boxed twitchbait.

Next time if there is to be a competition, I won't tell you where the pairs are..heh..heh. That should be no problem though, you folks found more pairs and roaming fish than I knew last time;)

[The TRUST]

I'm getting more hook-ups with the red hooks which is in the front of the lure. Before the red hooks the hookups were mostly on the back treble, sometimes on the middle treble and rarely on the front treble.

You may have one of my boxed twitchbait.

Next time if there is to be a competition, I won't tell you where the pairs are..heh..heh. That should be no problem though, you folks found more pairs and roaming fish than I knew last time;)

AHAHHAHAHAHAHA! Home Court Advantage. LOL!

Thanks Mat! I appreciate the gesture. I seriously can't wait to get down there next year.

Hmmm more hook ups huh? I just may change some of my hooks. I guess the red color does help. Maybe try adding some dots on teh side again. This time use a Red marker and see if that improve the fishing.

[The TRUST]

No #82, 83, 84 and so on yet?

[JuanTamad]

No #82, 83, 84 and so on yet?

Have had no time for that. Still busy with the Mermaids. Heh,,,,heh:ROFL: :ROFL:

[The TRUST]

Have had no time for that. Still busy with the Mermaids. Heh,,,,heh:ROFL: :ROFL:


LOL! I see you've been very malikot :ROFL:

[PeacockBass]

Don't let the pictures fool you. Somebody called these fish unequivocably "monoculus" based on what appears to be dark eyes among other things on another thread.

Both these fish have red eyes and neither has mono looking jaws and I don't photoshop to change their appearance. I may have added text to some of the pictures here but none of the fish appearance was altered to make them look something they are not.

Who knows really what these fish are!. Ocellaris? or Monos?. Maybe a little bit of both. Officially, the fisheries folks here think they are Occies and call them Butterfly Peacock Bass.

Those are indeed Monoculus.

Tell me, what makes those Ocellaris?

WHere is the Ocelli?

[JuanTamad]

Question answered here. With a little bit of help from The Trust.

Ocellaris question answer (http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/member.php?u=3)

Mwa..hah.hah.

[The TRUST]

Those are indeed Monoculus.

Tell me, what makes those Ocellaris?

WHere is the Ocelli?




Neal,

No need to get so aggressive. Matt is simply stating that FL F&G claims that the fish in FL are Ocellaris and call them Butterfly Peacock bass which I believe usually refers to Orinocensis in South America which all adds more confusion.

Matt is pretty new to the whole Pbass identification things so there is no need to be so hard on him. If you remember right I had the same problem too differentiating between Monoculus and Ocellaris.

Since I am not a Ichtyologist I can tell the difference of fish from the inside out, I can only identify them by their outer physical differences. I know you know the difference but I'll post some pics of my fish that show differences between the 2 similar looking Cichla. Sorry for the murky water pics. these are old ones taken last year I believe.


MONOCULUS (TOP) OCELLARIS (BOTTOM)
http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=7915

MONOCULUS

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=7929

OCELLARIS
http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=7932

[The TRUST]

I am not 100% correct on identifying them both BUT I can tell what Cichlas Look more like a Monoculus and What looks more like an Ocellaris.

Take a look at the pic below. These are adult of both species and you can see that hey do look different from each other. When juveniles, Both scpecies look excatly the same but when they start to mature the differences start to show.

As juvies bothe the Monoculus and the Ocellaris have the 3 Bars or sometimes the look like spots. With the exception of some FL Cichla I have seen with only 2 spots/bars. As the Fish Mature the Mono retains the bars (1, 2, 3) and are usually always visible all the time. In my expericience Ocellaris Bars (A, B) Fade from the mid point of the body to the bottom. and the 3rd Bar (C) becomes a SPOT.

Also you will notice that the Ocellaris loses the Horizontal body marking and the Monoculus ratains it.

[The TRUST]

My next way to identify the differences between the two species is the eyes and head shape.

Monoculus have a long more elongated face and mouth and do not have the red eyes.

[The TRUST]

Ocellaris have a more blunt shaped head and have red eyes.

[The TRUST]

I also usually see Ocellaris with a more yellowish sheen on them than the Monos do.

I shall reference more FL Pbass pics to show comparisons.

But for now I have to go to dinner before my wife gets really pissed off!! :popcorn:

[PeacockBass]

Neal,

No need to get so aggressive. Matt is simply stating that FL F&G claims that the fish in FL are Ocellaris and call them Butterfly Peacock bass which I believe usually refers to Orinocensis in South America which all adds more confusion.

Matt is pretty new to the whole Pbass identification things so there is no need to be so hard on him. If you remember right I had the same problem too differentiating between Monoculus and Ocellaris.

Since I am not a Ichtyologist I can tell the difference of fish from the inside out, I can only identify them by their outer physical differences. I know you know the difference but I'll post some pics of my fish that show differences between the 2 similar looking Cichla. Sorry for the murky water pics. these are old ones taken last year I believe.


MONOCULUS (TOP) OCELLARIS (BOTTOM)
http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=7915

MONOCULUS

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=7929

OCELLARIS
http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=7932


THere is a HUGE misconception about the Flordia CIchla. THe "butterfly" Ocellaris which the F&W claim they planted.. They introduced 3 species. Not just the 2 they claim now. All three of the major cichla, back in the day of the transplant, were added. Ocellaris, Monoculus, and temensis.

It seems there has been some crossbreeding. But you can still clearly pick out which fish show more of which trait. Ocellaris, NEED the Ocelli on the top of the third bar to be considered a Ocellaris dominant cross. The rest you can clearly classify as Monoculus dominant.

Even red eyes mean nothing at this point considering Many of us keepers have had Wild caught Monoculus show the "blood eye". It is a common sight when the cichla is enraged with fright or anger.

[The TRUST]

Alright guys that enough bashing each other.

Neal, Matt is in his 50s. Even I am younger than his youngest child I believe. and Yes you do get quite offensive and attack people with different opinions than you. I am just used to it as I've seen your posts for years now.

I said Matt is new to IDENTIFYING Pbass I didn't say he was new to Pbass in general. he has been fishing them for years but never really looked into identifying the fish as they were not much interest to him as Angelfish were. So please give Matt a break.

[PeacockBass]

Alright guys that enough bashing each other.

Neal, Matt is in his 50s. Even I am younger than his youngest child I believe. and Yes you do get quite offensive and attack people with different opinions than you. I am just used to it as I've seen your posts for years now.

I said Matt is new to IDENTIFYING Pbass I didn't say he was new to Pbass in general. he has been fishing them for years but never really looked into identifying the fish as they were not much interest to him as Angelfish were. So please give Matt a break.


hmm... I suppose you are right. I have been rather rash with my new freind JT. Been having a rough week and that generally means my attitude when I get home isnt as good as it should be.

I would like to apologize for the attitude. It shouldnt hit these boards. But to often does, as we can see from these last few posts/threads.

To be honest, I enjoy your Posts JT. Especially the picture ones. THey have inspired me to start up a hawaii Cichla picture thread, when I eventually get my ass out there and catch these Hawaiian "Butterflys".

I hope we both can laugh at this and move on. Good luck out there fishing!

:headbang2

[redtailfool]

Dodged two lightning strikes to land this one.

For a few moments I felt like I may have looked like Redtailfool's Avatar! LOL



Haha Matt, dont get fried now.. just the pbass bangus style !

[Steve_89]

It seems there has been some crossbreeding. But you can still clearly pick out which fish show more of which trait. Ocellaris, NEED the Ocelli on the top of the third bar to be considered a Ocellaris dominant cross. The rest you can clearly classify as Monoculus dominant.

Even red eyes mean nothing at this point considering Many of us keepers have had Wild caught Monoculus show the "blood eye". It is a common sight when the cichla is enraged with fright or anger.

Thats what I go by aswell...

Its good to see that you guys have made up :hearts:

Now we can get on with the cichla discussion :headbang2

[Steve_89]

BTW Jed, do you still have that ocell?

It is very very nice.

[The TRUST]

BTW Jed, do you still have that ocell?

It is very very nice.


yup! Still got it. it's one of my favorite ones

[The TRUST]

Caught # 82 yesterday morning and released.

Enjoy

First look:
http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=25613&size=1

Closer look:
http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=25612&size=1


:headbang2

[The TRUST]

Or maybe Speckled Pavon?

This is #83, a small Female Speckled PB less than 12 inch caught in RIo JotaTeh.:D

This fish is more common in Broward and the Cutler canals, I think. They show up from time to time here though. I think DM has stated in one of his posts that the Speckles disappear as the fish grows bigger.

Matt

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=25669&size=1

:eek:

[The TRUST]

Numbers 84, 85, 86, 87, 88

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=25695&size=1

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=25760&size=1

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=25759&size=1

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=25757&size=1

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=25758&size=1


12 more to go to 100 Matt!!!!!! WOOOOOOO!

[rayman45]

covered in sand :(

[The TRUST]

covered in sand :(


Well that was the beach shore.

[JuanTamad]

Thanks Jed.

Up to 90 now, 10 more to go.

Click on the Work in Progress item in my signature for the latest catches.

[The TRUST]

Thanks Jed.

Up to 90 now, 10 more to go.

Click on the Work in Progress item in my signature for the latest catches.

Dang! You've been busy!!!

[The TRUST]

#89

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=25924&size=1

[The TRUST]

#90

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery/watermark.php?file=25923&size=1

[specialk]

nice fish

[JuanTamad]

# 91 - # 93: Sunday, 9/10/2006 Trifecta and located about a dozen monster sized PB and their hang out.

All catches were released. Two were over 17 inches while one was 0ver 20 inches.

These pics were posted in one of my Albums in the photo gallery but disappeared overnight. Could be due to the server transfer. Also upload to the gallery is running into some problems at this time.

Hope this can go in here.

[The TRUST]

DANG!!! I SEE THEM IN DA WATER!!!!!!!!!!

I definitely have to test my new camera when I get down there and my new polarized lens!

[midnight]

sweet fish.
thats a bunch in the water pic.
over 20? niiice,thats big,ive caught a 24" lm,would love to catch a 24" pb.
i will be going down there again sometime,going to stay the weekend this time tho.
maybe we can "hook" up :D

[JuanTamad]

What would have been # 94 bent 4 of the six hooks in this lure after more than 5 minutes of fight on light rod and reel over the rope line on my favorite fishing beach.....It's probably as close to 2 feet as I have ever encountered here.:(

[The TRUST]

Jeez! those Rapala hooks are pretty hard. Dang they must have been fighting pretty hard to bend it open that much.

[JuanTamad]

Jeez! those Rapala hooks are pretty hard. Dang they must have been fighting pretty hard to bend it open that much.

Yes, they are and they have.

Took no chances today and went out with my favorite lure. This is probably not as big as yesterday's almost #94 but it will have to do as #94, it's only a bit bigger than 18 inches.:D

It also bent one of the hooks on this lure but was no match, otherwise.

[JuanTamad]

#95 - Not quite a monster yet but it will have to do as #95 at 12+ inches. It's hot out there weather wise...

[The TRUST]

DUN DUN DUN!!!!!!!!!!

5 MORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[JuanTamad]

Final four remaining, should be done by end of the week.

This is #96, Feistest of them all, jumping all over the beach when landed until all covered with sand.

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery//watermark.php?file=26193&size=1

[The TRUST]

4 more!!!!!!

[DIESELMACK]

JUAN...got something for you to try out that you will just love...I have been blasting fish with these. They are a hybrid lure...soft bodied with a rapala type inner and lip...the sweet part is the tail is segmented and makes the lure swim like a real baitfish...if you are fishing where there is some current you can let it suspend and the water current will move the body of the lure like a fish swimming in place....very cool and very productive! they have them on ebay in various sizes,but I have found 4" and 5" to work very good on med to large bass.......give them a try...they are called megabait "charlie"...here are some pics...they come in various patterns and colors ;) you wont be disappointed at all...even though you like 3 hooks these come with 2 or one depending on size but hooks are oversized and hardened(guaranteed not to bend).
http://www.extremelures.com/productimages/images/charlie/charlieinternalbw.gif

http://usacproshop.net/ProductImages/megabait/charlie.jpg

http://thinkbig.anglerwebs.de/images/megabait-charlie-sr.gif

[The TRUST]

Doesn't STORM Lures make something like that?

[DIESELMACK]

Doesn't STORM Lures make something like that?

they do not work the same...these actually will fool you if you'd see one in the water...also you do not have to even reel for it to give realistic body movements...the storm lures and others are chopped into sections and move almost robotically.....the thing I like most about these is after a quick sweep retrieve when you stop the lure continues forward making the same body motion as a swimming fish...they are really cool as hell....I had 4 bass hit these sitting dead in the water as they suspend and any little current makes them undulate....the big 8"(for musky,pike,ect) are sinking and will rest on the bottom on the treble hooks and fish upright so it looks like a fish sitting just off the bottom with its tail and rear body moving as if it is swimming in place in the water....just try one and you'll be a believer....I have about 8 of these now and use them almost exclusively....I will give ya a everglades test on them in a few months ;)
http://www.megabait.net/ProductImages/megabait_charlie/megabaitcharlieallcolors.jpg

this is another cool feature...the irridescence is on the hard inner shell so you see it through the body and replicates the look of bait fish "flashing" as they turn.
http://www.testfischer.de/kunstkoeder/bilder/megabait/charlie.jpg
ok...thats all...not a salesman:D but this is a great producing lure and wanted to share!

[JuanTamad]

The Megabait Charlie appears very interesting.

Worth a try here if I could find it locally.

A hybrid bait for hybrid Cichla!:)

[The TRUST]

I have to check those out.

I can always use new and better lures since I don't get to catch many fish. :(

[The TRUST]

looks like Rapala is expanding their X-Rap line as well.

http://news.rapala.com/Newsletter-2006-09-22/x-raps.htm

[The TRUST]

Still at 96?

[JuanTamad]

Still at 96?

Unfortunately, yes. The weather has not been cooperating. It's been overcast daily and very windy. Hard to see the fish for my style of fishing. I don't cast unless I see the fish.

And...The competition have been cleaning out the few sites, where I see them on my daily walks/ride around the lake, before I could go back to fish for them.:(

[messiner]

so any different crap sneak in there??? any oscars slam your topwater??jags?giant clown knives??lol

im liking those charlie baits. dont use storm baits they suck, fall apart real easy. anybody like yo-zuri crystal minnows?? id take them over x-raps any day. snook killers.

[Aquatic Dreams]

How are you guys sexing them?
And do you ever catch anything else other than PB's in that lake/river?
If so what? Any pics?
Dang I wish we had spots like that in OZ.. Filled with PB..

[messiner]

post stealer lol

[Aquatic Dreams]

Yea sorry, Put it this way... It was a bump to the front.. LOL
But I DO want to know..

[redtailfool]

Go Matt !

[JuanTamad]

Go Matt !

Ok!

Got #97 today when the winds let up a bit in the early morning. Went out with my fishing rod so I won't have to come back to fish and prevent the other fishermen from getting them.:D

#97 won't stay still for a pic and had to hold it down:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery//watermark.php?file=26425&size=1

Another shot when it stayed down

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery//watermark.php?file=26426&size=1:D

[JuanTamad]

Yea sorry, Put it this way... It was a bump to the front.. LOL
But I DO want to know..

There's large mouth bass, Giant plecos, tilapia, sunfish, mayan cichlids, pacus, Uarus, etc..

I've recently caught a couple of baby gars and a baby catfish. Too small to take decent pictures, though. I've also recently saw a red devil hanging around in one of the beach areas.

[redtailfool]

Those Pbass look unreal. Go Matt go ! Im sure you can reach your goal over the weekend.
You sir, are one lucky retiree. :)

[Aquatic Dreams]

Thanks for the responses!

Has anybody got any pics of other fish caught?
very interested.

Cheers

[JuanTamad]

#98 is one of two PBs hooked today.

The other one managed to unhook itself in the air and landed a couple of feet from the water's edge on dry land. It flipped back into the water before I could set down my gear to pick it up.

Just one of two happy endings for today. A couple of guys fished a spawning pair near my home which I was saving for # 100. Not only did they broke up the pair, they also took my minnow trap that was left nearby. Last week somebody took off with my back pack loaded with my reserve fishing stuff which I left unattended for a few minutes.

Anyway here's # 98

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery//watermark.php?file=26459&size=1

[JuanTamad]

# 99 is another variant. It looks like it has an Ocelli over a fourth bar that looks like a cross. Foot long PB.:)

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery//watermark.php?file=26475&size=1:)

[JuanTamad]

#100 is One small fish for a Man, a monster catch for a MonsterFishKeeper:D

:mwave: :mwave: :mwave: :mwave: :mwave: :mwave:

Bigger than a foot:D

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery//watermark.php?file=26474&size=1

[The TRUST]

YAY! CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

100 WOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!

[JuanTamad]

YAY! CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

100 WOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!

Thanks, Jed.

That run up to the 100th PB catch of the year was a very good warm up for the real fishing.

The temps around here are moderating. When that happens fishing shifts into high gear and it gets red hot. And we don't mean the weather.

Let the real fishing begins!

Gone fishing for the rest of the year. See you guys next year.;) :) :D :ROFL:

[The TRUST]

LOL! Hmm We need to see you switch to Snakeheads when you're not fishing for peacocks!

[JuanTamad]

LOL! Hmm We need to see you switch to Snakeheads when you're not fishing for peacocks!

So far, no Snakeheads seen here. Will try the Everglades next weekend. Got up to # 104 this weekend while fishing Rio JotaTeh with SuperLaz and his Mrs.

Also caught my first Gar and Catfish in the neighborhood Lake.

Check the Signature on any of my posts for the latest in my ongoing saga of Fishing for Florida Peacock Bass in 2006.:D

[The TRUST]

So far, no Snakeheads seen here. Will try the Everglades next weekend. Got up to # 104 this weekend while fishing Rio JotaTeh with SuperLaz and his Mrs.

Also caught my first Gar and Catfish in the neighborhood Lake.

Check the Signature on any of my posts for the latest in my ongoing saga of Fishing for Florida Peacock Bass in 2006.:D

SWEET! Got pics of the gar and catfish?

[JuanTamad]

SWEET! Got pics of the gar and catfish?

Have them in an Album in the Gallery. They are just babies. They got collected together with feeders for my growing monsters.

Baby Cats and Gar Pics here (http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/gallery//showgallery.php?cat=983)

[The TRUST]

Cool! Looks like some bullheads and a Florida Gar. you can train that gar to eat pellets!

[jed3ell]

Great accomplishment Juan!

[JuanTamad]

Great accomplishment Juan!

Thank You.:)

[h20man]

That is a nice catch! Those Peacock Bass are a bomb to catch. It makes catching other freshwater fish on a fishing pole boring. I love catching them with my kids here in Hawaii :)

[AnDr3w]

Wow. I just read this whole thing. Late congratz!

[ewurm]

Any more catches?

[JuanTamad]

Any more catches?
in 2006? no.

[Polypterus Senegalus]

where are you fishing from exactly? i want to go down to florida within the next two weeks. any suggestions?

[JuanTamad]

where are you fishing from exactly? i want to go down to florida within the next two weeks. any suggestions?

I fish from a Private community lake.

My suggestion would be to go in the Spring or Summer. Otherwise your best bet is to go fishing with a Peacock Bass guide on his boat. Lookup the Peacock Bass Association website, some guides list their services there.

[Polypterus Senegalus]

awesome thanks! much appreciated.

[mjuniorc]

thanx for sharing you pbass frenzy... its was very interesting reading up on the thread...
BEST WISHES...

[AMAZONPETS]

WHERE IN FLORIDA AR THE BEST PLACES TO FISH FOR PEACOCK BASS? PLEASE LIST ACTUAL LAKES, AND RIVERS THE EXIST IN.
THANKS