That’s a Peacock Bass, or as us locals call them “Peas”. Welcome to South Florida! They are the OG Get Off My Lawn Cichlids. I’m sure it pulled drag on you.

Best advice I ever got that I can pay forward. “Just do what you do”

4 foot should be golden. Just depends on if that is an area or pattern based fishery. I’d keep the vessel as far away from the target as possible until you decide to get all up in it to flip/pitch.

Depends on the depth and contour leading up to the grass line. Run something along the edge to draw them out. I also notice there are tiny points and pockets along the edge. I’d pick them apart.

I’m at the extreme corner where PA, NY, and NJ meet called the Tri-state area. Delaware River, Lake Wallenpaupack are on the menu plus a few other places in NY and NJ. I’m scoping some local tournaments as well. We will see what other memories I can make.

Was a gorgeous day and you made it that much better. Was nice to share my deck with another tournament angler. Zero anxiety about getting whacked in the head. Mack’s place had its share of stumps too, but his you could see from the surface. I’ll need some bondo after both NC stops. Lol

Impressive

Always glad to participate in an event for such a great cause.