Jaguar Guapote
Type: Other Non-Native
Appearance: Broken lateral line and black-and-white patterning, with numerous purple to black spots or blotches, make this exotic species distinct. It has a toothed and protrusible mouth.
State record: 2.78 lbs.
BigCatch: To qualify your catch needs to exceed the listed weight OR length (not necessarily both).
Habitat: Mostly from coastal canal systems of southeast Florida, ranging as far north as West Palm Beach; first reported in 1992. Native range is Atlantic slope of Central and South America.
Behavior: Female lays about 4,000 adhesive eggs on hard, flat surface; both parents protect eggs and young. Feeds primarily on small fish (including many exotic species) and aquatic insects; also consumes some snails, worms, and even an occasional lizard.
Tips: Caught on beetle-spins and other small artificial baits, as well as, live worms and small fish; no bag or size limits. Excellent eating; a mainstay in its native range. Take as many as you like, but do not live release them.