Brazil Peacock Bass Fishing

Peacock Bass Fly Fishing in Brazil

Brazil is a dream destination for adventurous fly anglers, thanks to the ferocious peacock bass which isn't even really a bass - it's a member of the Cichlidae family - a top-tier freshwater predator renowned for its explosive strikes and vibrant coloration. Found throughout tropical South America, these fish thrive in Brazil’s massive jungle rivers.

Two significant watersheds for peacock bass fishing are the Rio Solimões (upper Amazon River) and the Rio Negro.

The Rio Solimões, located in western Brazil, carries nutrient-rich, sediment-laden “white water,” teeming with biodiversity and hosting dense riverbank vegetation. In contrast, the Rio Negro flows through northwestern Brazil and is characterized by its dark, tea-colored, acidic “black water,” and lower sediment levels. These distinct ecosystems support different peacock bass habitats and styles of fly fishing.

In general, the Rio Negro drainage fisheries focus primarily on peacock bass fishing while the fisheries in the Rio Solimões are rich with a diverse mix of species.

Brazil: A Modern Nation of Natural Wonders

Brazil is far more than rainforest—it’s a vast and modern nation with a diverse economy and rich cultural history. Spanning over 3.2 million square miles, Brazil is the largest country in South America. With a population of over 215 million people, it is a remarkable melting pot of cultures, languages, and landscapes.

Major economic centers like São Paulo, the country’s financial heart, and Rio de Janeiro, known for tourism and culture, anchor Brazil’s southeast. In contrast, Brasília, the capital, represents its political core in the country’s interior.

While fly fishing draws me deep into the Amazon, Brazil’s infrastructure and developing nation status ensure a comfortable and connected experience. Like anywhere in the world, common sense decisions are key to safe travels in urban areas.

Manaus: The Heart of the Amazon

Deep in the heart of Brazil’s rainforest lies Manaus, a thriving city and port of over 2 million residents, located where the Rio Solimões and Rio Negro converge to form the Amazon River. It is both geographically and culturally vital—it serves as the primary gateway for jungle expeditions

Manaus is a bustling metropolis with international flights, historical charm, and surprising luxury. Known for its grand Amazon Theatre, colorful markets, and rich history from the rubber boom of the late 1900's.

It's strategic location has earned it the title of "Heart of the Amazon,” making it the ideal launchpad for anglers as they head out to the vast jungle to fly fish for peacock bass and myriad other species.

Fly Fishing for Peacock Bass in Brazil

Fly fishing for peacock bass in Brazil continues to grow in popularity among international anglers seeking adrenaline-packed, jungle-based adventures. These fish are aggressive predators that strike hard and fight harder. Brazil is home to several subspecies of peacock bass, the most sought-after being the Cichla temensis—known for its size, power, and stunning coloration with deep, black barring.

Modern fly fishing operations now cater to this growing community, combining world-class guiding with eco-conscious hospitality. We haven't been to them all by any means, but here are the ones we are familiar with from personal experience. We have included some general information, links to our trip reports, and photo galleries from our travels in these sections. If you are planning a trip to these areas on your own or with a travel agency, feel free to reach out to us via e-mail with any questions and gear recommendations, including peacock bass fly recommendations for each area of the jungle.

From the Montana Fly Fishing Blog