There is a fish that anglers all over the world dream of at least once: the peacock bass, the tucunaré. Golden body, three black bands, a red eye and a violent strike on surface lures. To meet it at its best you have to go to the Rio Negro, in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon.
Together with a trusted partner, we organise peacock bass trips from Barcelos, known as the world capital of the peacock bass, into the Mariuá archipelago, one of the largest freshwater archipelagos in the world.
Why the Rio Negro for peacock bass
The Rio Negro is a blackwater river: dark, clean water, white sand beaches and flooded forest that stretches for kilometres when the water is high. When the water drops, the fish concentrate in lagoons, channels and along the banks, and the fishing becomes spectacular.
When to go: from late September to January
The season runs from late September to January, when the water levels are lower and the peacock bass are easier to find. Dates are confirmed every year according to the river levels.
7 or 10 days, all inclusive
Trips last 7 or 10 days, on air-conditioned hotel boats or floating lodges that move with the fish, and in exclusive base camps. Everything is included: transfers, including seaplane connections, hotel nights, boats with guides, fuel, meals and accommodation.
Tackle and techniques
Peacock bass are fished mainly with surface lures: poppers, propeller baits and walk-the-dog lures, plus soft shads for deeper water. We recommend braided line of 50 to 60 lb and travel rods of 6 to 6.6 feet. Casting rods can be rented on site, and we send you the complete tackle list before departure.
A wild experience, organised down to the last detail
You fish in untouched nature, among macaws, river dolphins and flooded forest, far from everything. At the same time, every logistical detail is handled for you, from the flight connections to the last day on the river. Groups are small and every trip is tailor-made, with the price on request.
Fishing closer to home? Discover fly fishing and black bass in Sardinia.
Frequently asked questions about peacock bass fishing
What is the best time for peacock bass on the Rio Negro?
From late September to January, when the river levels drop and the fish concentrate.
How long is a peacock bass trip?
We organise trips of 7 or 10 days, all inclusive, on hotel boats or floating lodges.
Do I need my own tackle for the Amazon?
We recommend bringing your own travel rods and surface lures, but casting rods can be rented on site. We send you a complete tackle list before departure.
How much does a peacock bass trip in the Amazon cost?
The price is on request. Write to us on WhatsApp at +39 389 341 6165 and we will send you a proposal for your dates.