Chichlid fishing!

Question

I am about to start arranging a trip for my 13 year old grandson. He is high functioning autistic and his all time wish is to follow in the step of the Utubers he watches for hours catching Chichlids in canals in Florida. He would like to go sea fishing also and loves wading in the water with a net. My question is, are there any fishing trips to catch Chichlids? Is this more likely in the Everglades? Should we base ourselves in Key West or Key Largo, or spend time between the two? Sorry to be so vague, just do not know where to start!

Answer

It’s wonderful that you’re planning such a special trip for your grandson, and I’m sure he’ll be thrilled to experience some of the fishing adventures he’s seen on YouTube! Cichlid fishing and sea fishing in Florida are definitely possible, and there are a variety of options for you to explore. Let me break down your questions and provide some detailed suggestions for planning your trip:

First, regarding cichlid fishing: Cichlids, specifically the popular non-native species like the Mayan cichlid, are often found in canals and freshwater lakes throughout Florida. These fish are commonly targeted by anglers in areas where there are urban canals, ponds, and lakes. The Everglades are indeed a good spot for freshwater fishing, but they are more well-known for species like bass, catfish, and tilapia. Cichlids can be found in other areas too, including near Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and the Upper Keys.

There are fishing charters and guides that specialize in freshwater fishing, including cichlid fishing. These guides will typically take you to canals or lakes in the southern part of Florida, and some even offer wading trips, which might be exactly what your grandson is looking for! Here are some suggestions:

Everglades National Park: While the Everglades is better known for other types of fishing, the park does offer freshwater fishing opportunities where you might catch cichlids. A guided fishing trip in the Everglades could also introduce your grandson to other wildlife and help him enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Some local guides offer half-day or full-day trips targeting various species.
Canal Fishing around Miami and the Upper Keys: There are lots of canals in areas like Miami, Homestead, and the Upper Keys, where you can fish for cichlids. These areas are not too far from both Key West and Key Largo, making them easy to access.
Fishing Guides in Key Largo: Key Largo has some great options for freshwater fishing. Many guides focus on bass and other species, but some do specialize in the various species of cichlids. You can inquire with local fishing charters to see if they can accommodate your grandson’s interest in cichlid fishing.
Wading in Water: Since your grandson loves wading in the water, there are a number of fishing guides who offer trips where you can wade in canals and shallow waters. This could be a fun and interactive experience for him to catch fish using a net or light tackle. Look for guides who specialize in “shallow water fishing” or “canal fishing” to find those experiences.

As for where to base yourselves between Key West and Key Largo, both locations offer different experiences:

Key Largo: If your main focus is freshwater fishing for cichlids, I’d recommend spending more time in Key Largo or the Upper Keys. This area is closer to freshwater canals and lakes, and there are a variety of fishing guides who specialize in that type of fishing. Key Largo also offers great options for sea fishing, as it's a hub for both freshwater and saltwater fishing excursions.
Key West: While Key West is famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, it's more of a destination for deep-sea fishing rather than freshwater fishing. Key West offers fantastic saltwater fishing trips, where you could go after species like tarpon, snapper, and grouper, which might also be exciting for your grandson to try.
Splitting Time Between Key West and Key Largo: If you’re planning to enjoy both freshwater and saltwater fishing, spending a few days in both places could work well. You could start in Key Largo for the cichlid fishing and wading experiences, then head to Key West for some sea fishing adventures. The drive between the two is beautiful and only takes about 2-2.5 hours, so it’s definitely manageable for a split stay.

Lastly, in terms of logistics, many of the fishing charters in Florida are family-friendly and can cater to young anglers or those with specific needs. Be sure to communicate with the guides ahead of time about your grandson’s interests, so they can tailor the trip to include cichlid fishing and wading if possible. Some charter companies also provide gear and equipment, so you won’t need to worry about bringing your own. It’s always a good idea to book in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.

In summary, Key Largo is your best base for freshwater cichlid fishing, and you’ll find several options for wading in canals or lakes. Key West is perfect for a sea fishing adventure, but it may not be the best spot for targeting cichlids. A split stay between Key Largo and Key West could provide the perfect mix of freshwater and saltwater experiences. I hope your grandson has an unforgettable trip catching cichlids and enjoying Florida’s amazing fishing opportunities!

Chichlid fishing!

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