Author
Marko Devčić
Global Fisherman Co-Founder
There are A LOT of places all around the world where fishing is possible. Many people express the sentiment that home is the most beautiful. Each fisherman has their favorite spot where they prefers to be alone with nature, experiencing a momentary pause in the hustle and bustle of the world. In my case, there are indeed many such places, but let’s delve into a location I encountered a few years ago. Let’s discuss one of today’s most diverse ecosystems: the mighty Everglades.
I have always been captivated by shows on the Discovery Channel or Animal Planet showcasing the wonders of the Florida Everglades and its unique ecosystem. To my great delight and fortune, I had the opportunity to experience it firsthand. Describing love at first sight in a fishing context, for me, goes like this: I have a largemouth bass weighing around 4lbs on the line, with two alligators lying just five meters ahead on land and a Burmese python measuring 6.7 meters in the water 15 meters away. Once you feel such a profound connection with nature, it becomes addictive, and there’s no turning back. The Everglades, itself an expansive area offering opportunities to fish for both sea and river predators, houses a diverse range of species from all corners of the globe.
It’s true, the Florida Everglades’ ecosystem has suffered damage due to invasive species, impacting both the fish population and the overall ecosystem. In these waters, you can encounter fish from Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and South America, as if the entire global fish fauna converges in the vast channels of the Everglades. Even aquarium enthusiasts can find exciting opportunities, as the Everglades are home to fish bred in aquariums worldwide. Land and water dinosaurs coexist in this wild environment, where alligators serve as silent guardians while you fish. Turtles and birds add to the vibrant tapestry of this wild nature, making it as untamed as any place on the planet can be.
For those venturing into the working areas of the Everglades near the canals, opportunities abound to fish for sea creatures like Tarpon, Snook, Jack Cravel, Shark, and Goliath Grouper. However, this requires a guide or a rented boat from the locals. If your interest lies in freshwater fishing from the shore, the real fun begins here. 🙂
The Everglades is home to a variety of species such as Florida gar, largemouth bass, peacock bass, Mayan cichlid, bowfin, alligator gar, bluegill, sunfish, warmouth bass, chain pickerel, mosquitofish, and oscar cichlid, offering diverse options for lure and float fishing. Fishing with artificial baits, my preferred method, provides a challenging yet satisfying experience. In just 3.5 hours, I managed to catch 68 fish on artificial bait – a feat unmatched anywhere else in the world.
The Everglades are also inhabited by the indigenous Miccosukee tribe, whose buildings, houses, farms, and overall infrastructure present a fascinating sight. These elements are unique to the Everglades and leave a lasting impression. As for the Everglades, it’s crucial to exercise caution. If you venture alone, always carry a weapon (even a knife), as you are in a wild ecosystem where encounters with bears, panthers, pythons, and alligators are possible. While enjoying nature and fishing, it’s prudent to respect the natural rules, especially in the evenings.
Camping in the Everglades, and spending the night in its endless swamps, provides a genuine natural delight. The sounds of owls, coyotes, geckos, and alligators create an unmatched ecosystem, akin to natural poetry that allows for sound sleep, especially with a fire burning a few meters from the tent. Night fishing, especially when the largest fish have their guard down, is a unique experience worth trying (remember mosquito spray and insect repellent).
I have had the most success with live baits but lures such as Rapala, Mepps, various rubber baits, jig-fly, and various spinners also yield positive results. Given the swampy conditions, moisture and heat are prevalent, making water and hydration essential during fishing.
To sum up my impressions, the Everglades serve as a home to a vast array of birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish in an untouched natural setting. If you are drawn to wildlife, incredible fishing, and maximum adrenaline, then the Everglades National Park is the perfect destination for you. If the opportunity arises, do not hesitate to visit this unparalleled natural gem. Be cautious, watch out for alligators, snakes, bears, and mosquitoes. Take care and enjoy the water!
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