Fishing Report: Arapaima Dreams – Pirarucu Lodge, Mamirauá Reserve

Weather Conditions

This week showcased the Amazon’s dynamic climate. Temperatures ranged from 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 93°F), with high humidity and scattered afternoon showers. The cooler mornings created ideal conditions for spotting arapaimas as they surfaced, while occasional rain tested the patience and persistence of our anglers.

Water Conditions

Water levels in the Mamirauá Reserve continued to drop slightly, creating a perfect environment for concentrated fishing action. Visibility remained moderate, with a characteristic tea-colored clarity. These conditions favored sight fishing, allowing anglers to spot surface movements and plan their casts with precision. 

Fishing Summary

Under the guidance of manager Rafael Costa, who has led operations at Pirarucu Lodge for a decade, this week delivered everything anglers could dream of. With over 10 years of Untamed Angling’s conservation efforts, the Mamirauá Reserve has transformed into a sanctuary for arapaima fishing, improving year after year.

This week was defined by encounters with Amazon’s legendary giants. Targeting arapaimas on the fly is not just a test of skill but a dance of Consistency, strategy, and endurance. Anglers faced fierce strikes, dramatic surface breaches, and relentless dives, proving why the arapaima is the ultimate predator of these waters.

The presence of pink dolphins, playful caimans, and vibrant birdlife reminded everyone that fishing at Pirarucu Lodge is as much about connecting with the ecosystem as it is about landing trophy fish.

Fishing Stats

Total Arapaimas Landed: 28

Size Range:

Length: 170 to 215 cm (5.6 to 7.1 feet)
Weight: 60 to 110 kg (130 to 240 lbs)


Other Species:

Tambaquis: 14 caught, weighing between 10 to 30 lbs
Aruanas: Countless caught, providing thrilling topwater action
Surubim (Catfish): 2 rare catches
The week’s standout was a 215 cm (7 ft) arapaima weighing approximately 110 kg (240 lbs), landed by Robert, an Austrian angler, after an epic 40-minute battle.

Highlights of the Week

A defining moment unfolded during a misty morning lagoon session. Robert hooked into a massive 2.05-meter (6.7 ft) arapaima, which breached the surface with jaw-dropping power. The fight was a display of endurance, skill, and determination, with Robert and his guide working in perfect harmony to land the prehistoric giant.

Other highlights included the unforgettable sight of tambaqui schools feeding on fallen fruits, creating visual explosions on the surface, and serene moments shared with pink dolphins shadowing the anglers’ boats.

Message from Manager Rafael Costa

“Looking at this week’s photos, it’s impossible not to be impressed by this incredible location. From the first to the last week, we’ve encountered amazing fish and breathtaking nature, leaving our visitors with lifelong memories.

I have had the privilege of managing Pirarucu Lodge for the past 10 years, and each season, each day on the water, continues to surprise me. Thanks to Untamed Angling’s conservation efforts and the commitment of our partner communities, fishing here improves yearly.

Even outside our 12-week season, Untamed Angling and local communities work tirelessly to protect this paradise. After a decade of collaboration, the locals now understand the immense value of live fish, with guides today who were children when we began this pioneering conservation project.

This effort, combined with our clients’ support, has created not only an unparalleled fishing experience but also improved the lives of hundreds of families in the region. Thank you for being part of this extraordinary journey.”

Looking Ahead

As we close this unforgettable season at Pirarucu Lodge, we look forward to what the next year will bring. With ongoing conservation efforts and the collaboration of our dedicated guides and partner communities, the 2025 season promises even greater opportunities for anglers to connect with the Amazon’s legendary arapaima.

Water levels will once again align to create ideal conditions for dynamic fishing in the pristine lagoons of the Mamirauá Reserve. Anglers can anticipate the thrill of targeting these giants while immersing themselves in one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet.

The legacy of this season serves as a reminder that each year at Pirarucu Lodge builds on the last, ensuring not only world-class fishing but also a deeper connection to the Amazon’s untamed beauty. We can’t wait to welcome you back in 2025 for another chapter of adventure, conservation, and unforgettable moments.

Final Words

This week was a testament to why Pirarucu Lodge is considered the mecca for arapaima fishing. The unique combination of conservation, adventure, and comfort creates an experience that transcends traditional fishing.

We’re grateful to our anglers, guides, and communities for making this journey so rewarding. Until next Season—tight lines and endless adventures await!

Rafael Costa and Pirarucú Guides Staff

 

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