Leviathans
Arapaima are the largest scaled freshwater fish in the world, reaching lengths and sizes that can only compare with saltwater species. This makes an arapaima the ultimate challenge when fly fishing in the jungle. There’s nothing comparable in terms of size, strength and power for a fly rod anywhere else in the freshwater world. They are an air-breathing fish that resemble tarpon, both in size and shape. They are known to also have similar coloration and distinctly prehistoric fins. When hooked, they are acrobatic fighters, leaping repeatedly out of the water.
The young Arapaimas
In addition to the large fish, what makes Mamiraua an incredible fishery are the vibrant populations of “juvenile” arapaima from 30-70 pounds, which readily take large streamers on floating fly lines in the shallow lagoons of the reserve. And there’s lots of action on these perfect sized fly rod fish. You can fill your day with the action of those powerful medium sized fish.
Unique Species
There are also many arowana which have average 2-8 pounds in the wild and attack poppers and terrestrials with reckless abandon, instantly leaping acrobatically into the air once hooked. And you can’t pass by the schools, singles, and pairs of cruising tambaqui often sighted along the banks. They resemble permit in size, shape, and their hard-pulling nature on the end of a fly line. Throw in potential for yellow peacock bass, piripitinga, red-bellied piranhas, oscars, and you have a recipe for an incredibly diverse fishery that will not disappoint any jungle angler.
Fishing Season
The season at Pirarucú runs from September to the end of November. The dry season in this part of the Amazon runs from July through January, so this season straddles the middle of the dry season when water should be low and fish congregate in the lakes and channels. November 30th marks the end of fishing due to special regulations from the environmental authorities in Brazil who close all fishing for Arapaima throughout the Amazon to protect juvenile fish.
Pro and Native Guides + flat skiffs
Anglers fish from extremely comfortable and smooth riding skiffs. Each has a custom design, equipped with two large casting platforms, and an electric trolling motor with remote control for moving silently within the lagoons. Anglers are guided by one experienced English speaking professional guide and the ancient knowledge of an indigenous guide. And if you don’t have a 11-12wt fly rod outfit, don’t worry, we have them for all anglers to use.
If you want to read more about the travel, logistics, gear of this incredible experience, check out our travel planner.
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