species

THE FISH
     The Amazon basin, although famous for its Peacock Bass fishing, is home to numerous species of fish. Anything that has survived here has to be extremely tough and resilient in order to fend off the attacks of other ferocious predators on itself, its young and its eggs. This area has given adventurous fly fishers a new challenge in fighting exotic species. Many can be caught on a fly, while others are more likely to take lures or bait. All provide a great fight and some exciting, explosive takes.

Peacock Bass (Tucunaré):
      Contrary to its name, the peacock bass is not a member of the bass family, but instead, a member of the Cichlid family, a diverse family of tropical fish found throughout Africa, Central and South America.      Many species of peacock bass can be found in this area of the Amazon - all are identified most predominantly by a large black eyespot on the tail. They feed on shrimp and actively pursued fish, and explode out of the water savagely to destroy your fly. Peacock bass accumulate in the lagoons during dry season, and scatter into the flood plains during rainy season.
      &nb sp;                                     Matrincha (Matrinxa):
This is a species very sought after by anglers due to its exciting fight. It's surface strike is amazing, and can be compared to that of the Peacock Bass. It looks like a giant, silvery shad, and can grow up to 12 lbs. It is a carnivore that eats small fish, grasshoppers, etc. in the dry season, and fruit during the floods.
Pacu: This is a bluegill-like fish that runs up to 20 pounds . It is located both in rapid water, where it feeds on weeds and algae, and slower water where it feeds on fallen fruit and berries. The Pacu does not explode on the surface as the others mentioned above, but jump 3-5 feet in the air while taking off a significant amount of line. These fish demonstrate an impressive fight, and give you the opportunity to fish some faster moving water.

Payara: This is the most unusual tro phy you may see with its two long fangs on the bottom mouth that fit into slots in the upper mouth, and the tips stick out of the top of the head. They can grow to about 30 pounds, and are most easily taken on lures and bait. They are a strong fish with a good fight.

Piranha: This infamous fish is known mostly for its carnivorous appetite and its razor sharp teeth. Contrary to popular lore that piranha will chomp off your foot if it dangles in the water, the Amazon piranha is not considered dangerous to people (although it would probably be a good idea to let your guide release it!)The piranhas can get up to 5 pounds, and feed on injured animals and fish. You wil notice that many fish you bring in will be missing parts of their tail or dorsal fin as they have been gnawed on by a piranha. Although it can be a menace to many other fish that you are reeling in, the piranha itself can put up a great fight, and is certainly an unusual catch.

Traíra: This is an interes ting fish with its cylindrical body and round fins. It ranges in color from gray to brown. The canine-like teeth indicate that its food source is fish, frogs and insects. It lives in still waters, and prefers grassy and muddy habitats where it stalks its prey. The most successful traira fishing is at dusk and later.
     These are the most frequently caught fish, and they all provide a great strike and fight. In addition, you will most likely encounter several species of catfish (Pirarara, Jaú, Piraíba) who may spool you before you know it, and freshwater barracuda (bicuda), with incidental smaller bait fish. All of them are ferocious and hard fighting, and guarantee you and incredible sportfishing adventure. Call us today to start planning your  trip.

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