Category: trip

I’ve always been the type to carve my own path, rarely opting for guided excursions. But this journey was different—venturing across the country to chase a nocturnal, bottom-dwelling fish in a lake completely unknown to me demanded the expertise of someone who knew these waters like the back of their hand. Enter Captain Patrick from Swamp to Sea Guide Service—a master of his craft, with an easygoing demeanor that made him the perfect companion for this epic quest.

The day started with an unexpected catch—a black crappie that broke the surface as if to say, “This is just the beginning.” But it was only a prelude. 

As the sun rose higher, the lake came alive. We lost track of the number of peacock bass we hauled in, each one more vibrant and fierce than the last.

And then, it happened—Luke battled and brought in the prize we had come for, the elusive and exotic Clown Knifefish, its sleek, serpentine body shimmering in the morning light.

The adventure didn’t stop there. We also caught several Mayan cichlids, a first for the trip, adding to our growing tally of exotic species.

Captain Patrick wasn’t just a fishing guide—he was a storyteller of the land, sharing his deep knowledge of the local birds and trees, adding layers of richness to the experience that went far beyond the thrill of the catch.

But the day wasn’t just about the fish. On the journey back south, we indulged in a shrimp scampi pizza that was nothing short of divine—an unexpected gourmet delight that perfectly capped off our morning on the water.

As we returned to the Miami area, the adventure continued with a few more catches before the day finally caught up with us. These included some more peacock bass and couple Jaguar Cichlids.

We washed away the day’s exertions with a well-earned shower before relaxing at a Miami Marlins game.

Exhausted but exhilarated, we collapsed into the night, our minds already turning to the next chapter of our adventure—the legendary Tamiami Trail, where more epic encounters surely awaited.

Alligator Alley

The sun rose over Alligator Alley, casting long shadows over the endless stretch of wild Florida wilderness. Today was no ordinary fishing trip—it was a journey across the state, from the first tollbooth to Naples and back, traversing a land where nature reigns supreme and every cast holds the promise of the unexpected.

The day proved to be a challenge. We fished mile after mile, battling the elements and our own anticipation as fish after fish slipped through our grasp. But even as the bites eluded us, we found ourselves captivated by the raw beauty of the landscape. Majestic birds soared above, and ancient gators watched us from the shadows, their eyes glinting like the emerald waters that surrounded us. The Alley was alive, and we were part of its pulse.

When we reached Naples, the Gulf called to us. We fished a jetty, simply because we had to—the allure of the Gulf’s waters was irresistible. Afterward, had a lunch at Grouper & Chips, a hidden gem just blocks from the beach, where the flavors of the sea seemed to mirror the adventure of the day.

As we made our way back east, the fish finally relented. Luke landed a feisty little largemouth, a sign that our persistence would pay off. And then, in a moment that felt like fate, I landed my first Peacock bass—a flash of vibrant color against the fading light. It was a slow day by the numbers, but one that etched itself into my memory with the vividness of the setting sun.

On the return journey, we couldn’t resist one last cast into a canal, where the Everglades stretched out before us in a breathtaking panorama. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with fire, we stood on a levy, watching the day fade into night, content in the knowledge that some adventures are measured not by what you catch, but by what you experience.

Dinner was a hearty Cajun meal near the hotel, a perfect end to a day that had tested us, thrilled us, and left us ready for more.

Tomorrow, we rise early to chase new waters and new stories, as the adventure continues just an hour north.

Today was a day of movement, a journey more about discovery than the serious pursuit of fish.

After settling into our hotel, we couldn’t resist the call of the nearby waters, so we cast our lines into the canal right outside, where the urban landscape met the wild. The city seemed to fade away as we slipped into the rhythm of casting and reeling, every splash of the lure a reminder that adventure is where you find it.

Our search for the notorious snakehead took us to an unlikely spot—a quiet canal behind a convenience store, whispered about among those who know the area’s secrets. The air was thick with anticipation as we cast into the murky waters, each ripple a promise of something lurking beneath.

But the real catch of the day wasn’t in the water—it was at Sunrise Pita & Grill, where we savored a falafel sandwich that was nothing short of legendary. The flavors were as bold and unforgettable as any fish we might have caught, a feast worthy of the journey.

On the way back to the hotel, we couldn’t resist exploring one more canal, each stop adding another layer to the tapestry of the day. Tomorrow, we face the wild heart of Florida—Alligator Alley awaits, with its endless possibilities and untamed landscapes. Today was just the beginning.

I didn’t have a photo of a Redear Sunfish for the txfishes count. I took my TFO 0.5 wt fly rod out to a pond to pick one up.

Continuing scouting locations fior sunfish:

Spent a couple hours before work scouting out a location for a weird task based around sunfish and a timer. I think this place might work:

Hung out taking conference calls from the shore, only caught a couple little channel catfish, but there were plenty of birds hanging out.

Spent a little time working from the bank this week. Couldn’t do much “serious” fishing, but laptop in vehicle and a couple rods out for carp and catfish made a nice afternoon.

Saw some white bass working near the shore while leaving, and caught a few of those guys before they moved on.