Peacock Bass in South Florida, with Capt. Drew Rodriguez

The Orvis Fly-Fishing Podcast

Captain Drew Rodriguez [27:23] is the only Orvis-endorsed freshwater guide in Florida and specializes in largemouth and peacock bass in the canals near Miami and also the Everglades. In summer, peacocks are his main target as they just love hot weather, the hotter the better. He discusses how to find them, what flies to pick, and what tackle he recommends. They are a year-round target in the Miami area and, according to Captain Drew, a 30-fish day is a slow one. In the Fly Box this week, we have some interesting questions and great tips from listeners, including:

• Can I fit my fly boxes, lunch, and a raincoat in the standard Orvis Sling Bag?
• A tip from a listener on how college fly-fishing clubs can get involved with the Trout Unlimited Five Rivers program
• A tip for taking notes on your phone to remind you of podcast questions
• A tip for using desiccant packages in your fly boxes
• Should I tether myself to my 7-year-old daughter when we are wading together?
• A tip from a listener on "urban blue lining".
• If I fall in, what steps should I take to dry out my gear?
• What would be a recommendation for a basic surf fishing outfit for the East Coast, Florida, the Caribbean, and Central America?
• How can I manage the fly line around my feet when it gets stuck on obstructions in the river?
• Why don't they make longer fiberglass rods?
• If I am catching more whitefish than trout, should I move?
• What is the best way to fish nymphs without an indicator?
• Is dry fly fishing on a lake better in calm or riffled water?
• A hot tip from a regular listener on a great fly pattern