Ramp Monster Mike’s Epic Day Catching Landlocked Tarpon and Peacock Bass

Ramp Monster Mike is back at it again with another unforgettable adventure, but this time, it’s all about two of the most exciting and exotic freshwater species you can find in Florida—landlocked tarpon and peacock bass. While most people think of tarpon as saltwater giants and peacock bass as tropical species from the Amazon, both of these fish can be found thriving in the freshwater canals, ponds, and lakes of South Florida. In this video, Mike sets out to target these prized gamefish, showcasing just how thrilling fishing can be when these two hard-fighting species are involved.

Florida’s Freshwater Tarpon and Peacock Bass: Unique Challenges

The idea of catching tarpon and peacock bass in landlocked freshwater systems might sound surprising, but South Florida’s unique waterways offer an incredible habitat for both species. Over the years, landlocked tarpon have become more common in urban and suburban canal systems, providing anglers with an amazing opportunity to target one of the most powerful and acrobatic fish right in their backyard.

Peacock bass, introduced to Florida in the 1980s to help control invasive species, have flourished in the warm waters of South Florida, especially in places like Miami and the surrounding areas. These fish are known for their vibrant colors, aggressive behavior, and powerful strikes, making them a favorite among freshwater anglers.

For Mike, targeting both of these species in the same day meant an exciting challenge. The thrill of catching a landlocked tarpon, with its spectacular jumps and fast runs, and the explosive strikes of a peacock bass make for a perfect day of action-packed fishing.

The Setup: Tackle and Techniques

Mike’s approach to catching both tarpon and peacock bass in this video starts with a versatile, medium-heavy spinning setup. Since tarpon have incredibly hard mouths and peacock bass are known for fighting through thick cover, a strong yet sensitive rod and reel combination is key.

For the tarpon, Mike primarily used live bait like finger mullet and shiners, which imitate the small fish that tarpon feed on in these landlocked systems. Tarpon, especially in smaller freshwater environments, can be extremely picky, but when they strike, the battle is intense.

For the peacock bass, Mike switched things up, casting a variety of lures, including topwater plugs, jerkbaits, and soft plastics. Peacock bass are visual predators, often attacking lures with incredible force. By fishing near structure like rocks, submerged trees, and docks, Mike was able to locate where the peacock bass were ambushing prey, resulting in some explosive bites.

The First Catch: Landlocked Tarpon Action

The action started early when Mike hooked into his first landlocked tarpon of the day. After casting a live bait near the edge of the canal, it didn’t take long before his line went tight, and the unmistakable thrashing of a tarpon breaking the surface signaled that the fight was on. Tarpon are known for their aerial displays, and this fish didn’t disappoint, leaping into the air in a desperate attempt to throw the hook.

Fighting a tarpon in a smaller freshwater system presents its own challenges. With limited space and more structure to worry about, Mike had to keep the fish away from the nearby docks and submerged debris that could potentially break his line. The battle lasted for several minutes, with the tarpon making strong runs and several impressive jumps before finally tiring out. Mike carefully brought the fish to the shore, taking a quick moment to admire its sleek, silver body and powerful build before releasing it back into the canal.

Peacock Bass: Colorful and Aggressive

After the thrilling fight with the tarpon, Mike turned his attention to the vibrant and aggressive peacock bass. These fish are known for their brilliant colors—ranging from bright yellow to deep green with striking black markings—and their tenacious fighting style. It didn’t take long for Mike to hook into his first peacock of the day.

Casting a jerkbait along the edge of some submerged vegetation, Mike was able to trigger an aggressive strike from a solid peacock bass. The fish hit the lure with such force that it nearly yanked the rod out of his hand. After a brief but intense battle, Mike landed the fish, showcasing its bright colors and muscular body on camera.

Throughout the day, the peacock bass continued to strike at a variety of lures, particularly enjoying topwater presentations that mimic fleeing baitfish. There’s nothing quite like seeing a peacock bass explode on a topwater plug, and Mike’s video captured several of these heart-pounding moments.

What Makes Landlocked Tarpon and Peacock Bass Fishing Special?

Fishing for landlocked tarpon and peacock bass in Florida is a unique experience that offers the best of both worlds—combining the excitement of targeting one of saltwater’s most legendary species with the thrill of catching one of the most aggressive freshwater fish.

Landlocked tarpon, though smaller than their ocean-going counterparts, still offer plenty of challenge. They have the same powerful runs, aerial acrobatics, and stubbornness that make them a bucket-list fish for many anglers. In smaller freshwater systems, these fish are often harder to find and require precise tactics, adding to the excitement when you do hook one.

On the other hand, peacock bass are built for speed and power. Their aggression and territorial nature make them a blast to catch, especially on artificial lures. They’ll chase down topwater baits, crankbaits, and soft plastics with equal enthusiasm, and their stunning colors make them one of the most photogenic freshwater species around.

Fishing for both species in the same day is a dream come true for many anglers, and Mike’s video highlights just how rewarding it can be to target these fish in South Florida’s unique freshwater environments.

Tips for Catching Landlocked Tarpon and Peacock Bass

If you’re planning to target landlocked tarpon and peacock bass like Ramp Monster Mike, here are a few tips to help you get started:

  1. Use the Right Gear: For tarpon, a medium-heavy spinning setup with 30-50lb braided line is ideal. Tarpon have bony mouths, so strong hooks and a firm drag setting are essential for keeping them hooked during their jumps.

  2. Live Bait for Tarpon: Live bait such as finger mullet or shiners is the best choice for landlocked tarpon, especially in smaller canals or lakes where they feed on smaller prey.

  3. Lure Selection for Peacock Bass: Peacock bass are aggressive, so topwater plugs, jerkbaits, and soft plastics that mimic small fish work well. Try fishing near structure where peacock bass like to ambush prey.

  4. Fish the Early Morning or Late Afternoon: Both tarpon and peacock bass tend to be more active during the cooler parts of the day. Early morning and late afternoon are prime times to catch these fish feeding near the surface.

  5. Handle Fish with Care: Both tarpon and peacock bass are prized gamefish, so it’s important to practice catch and release. Handle them gently and quickly return them to the water to ensure they continue to thrive in Florida’s freshwater systems.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Day of Fishing

Ramp Monster Mike’s adventure catching landlocked tarpon and peacock bass is a perfect example of why South Florida is a fisherman’s paradise. The diversity of species, the intensity of the fights, and the beauty of these fish make every trip out to the water an exciting experience. Whether it’s the thrill of a tarpon jumping out of the water or the power of a peacock bass crushing a topwater lure, fishing for these two species in Florida’s freshwater canals is an experience you won’t forget.

For anyone looking to explore the freshwater fishing opportunities in Florida, take a cue from Mike—grab your gear, find a quiet canal or pond, and get ready for an epic day of fishing.

Hashtags

#LandlockedTarpon #PeacockBassFishing #RampMonsters #FishingFlorida #FreshwaterTarpon #BassFishing #TopwaterFishing #CatchAndRelease #FishingAdventure #FloridaFishing #TarponFishing #PeacockBass


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