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AMAZON PEACOCK BASS FISHING:
Peacock Bass fishing on the fly is one of the most amazing experiences for the experienced fly fisherman. And the Amazon basin offers some of the most dramatic fishing that exists – no fewer than 6 IGFA records have been established at the three destinations on offer here.
The hard fighting peacock bass of Brazil’s Amazon basin has become the hottest new frontier for the avid fly fisherman. Traditionally the preserve of those using spinning tackle, fly fishermen have found the excitement of the long runs and massive power of the peacock bass compatible with that of the saltwater tarpon.
Through Amazon Tours we are able to offer a selection of three extraordinary fishing adventures – two land based, Rio Negro Lodge and Rio Aracá Lodge, and one providing live-aboard accommodation on the luxury Amazon Queen II.
THE FISHING:
The peacock bass is a born ambusher and one of the most ferocious freshwater fish that you will find anywhere. Peacocks come in several varieties, including speckled, black-barred, butterfly and royal. All except the royal variety are found in this area of the Amazon. One of the speckled peacocks caught here – a 27-pounder – set a world record. These peacocks are truly aggressive and commonly mangle flies, snap 30lb leaders, straighten the toughest hooks, and break rods before you know what is happening.
They are diurnal, and are not in the least shy of the sun. They will hit flies on the surface with explosive force, but landing them is guaranteed to provide you with one of the toughest freshwater experiences that you will ever have.
Fishing is mostly undertaken from Nitro bass boats. Since the Rio Negro and its tributaries are home to an abundance of freshwater stingrays, wading is not encouraged. 9 or 10 weight fly rods are the norm as these will help cast the big streamers and flies that are required for the peacock bass. Both floating and fast sinking lines are advisable to cater for the variety of water levels that can change quite quickly.
ACCOMMODATION:
Amazon Tours offers a choice of three quality accommodations:
• Amazon Queen II: This 103 ft, 3 storey floating hotel on the Rio Negro was introduced in 2004. Here you will live aboard it for your entire Amazon adventure. Its objective is to provide guests with the ultimate combination of luxury and adventure. You will depart each morning with your guide and fishing partner, returning each evening for dinner and relaxation. This luxury ship offers comfort, convenience and privacy for up to 20 passengers, while accommodating a crew of 30. All state rooms (cabins) are air-conditioned, with private bathrooms. A spacious, indoor, air-conditioned dining room provides seating accommodation for 24. The top deck lounge/observation area is a perfect spot to gather with other anglers and to watch the jungle glide by.
• Rio Negro Lodge: Anglers, who choose to use the Rio Negro Lodge as a base, depart each morning by Nitro bass boat or floatplane and return each evening. The Lodge epitomises luxury, and is designed to house up to 36 guests. Spacious and air-conditioned, the main lodge is surrounded by a verdant jungle canopy. Located on winding paths through the lush rain forest, the individual cabins feature air-conditioning, queen sized beds, private bathrooms, walk-in showers, a sitting area and covered porch. Guests will enjoy resort level amenities such as daily laundry service, a private beach and fine dining
• Rio Aracá Lodge: This Lodge is the newest and most remote of the locations offered. It is from this Lodge that a number of IGFA records have been set, and US TV shows filmed. Rio Aracá Lodge houses up to 12 anglers. You will leave each morning on Tracker Pro Team 165 bass boats. The Lodge provides fully air-conditioned, deluxe accommodation with six private suites, each with its own private bathroom and two queen beds. Fine dining and an open bar service is provided.
THE PROGRAMME:
Guests will need to arrive in Manaus on a Friday (and overnight there), or early on a Saturday morning.
• Saturday: Guests will be met by an Amazon Tours representative and taken to a Manaus hotel, and then transferred to a Saturday morning charter flight departure from Manaus to Barcelos; Transfer to your destination, in time for a half day’s fishing, if desired
• Sunday to Friday incl.: 6 full days of fishing, 6am to 5pm
• Saturday: Transfer to Barcelos airport for charter flight to Manaus; Connect to return flight homE.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
Jungle tours are available for all, as are trips to local villages, float plane fly-outs, or relaxing by the pool after a massage (Rio Negro Lodge only).
SEASONS:
The peacock bass fishing season on the Amazon is from October until early March.
RATES:
The 2006/07 season weekly rate for each of the three destinations covered above is £2,830/person (US$4,950). This rate includes:
• All necessary ground transfers and air charters within Brazil
• Lodging (double occupancy)
• Complimentary spinning equipment (Falcon Rods, Shimano Reels and select top water lures)
• Guide service – (2) anglers with a Brazilian guide in 17’ Nitro Bass Boat (Bass Tracker 165 at Rio Aracá Lodge)
• 6 full days of fishing per week
• All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) except last day in Manaus
• Open bar (Brazilian beer, wine and liquor)
• Daily laundry & maid service
• Brazilian Fishing License
NOT INCLUDED:
• International & Domestic Airfares
• Specialty lures and tackle (which are available in limited quantities for purchase at the Rio Negro Lodge gift shop and aboard the Amazon Queen II)
• Tips – Gratuities for guides and staff are at the client’s discretion (we ask that you tip the guides directly, and any tips for the Lodge staff can be left with management)
• Medical Considerations – The Centers for Disease Control recommend Yellow Fever Vaccination and Malaria prophylaxis for travelling to the Amazon River Basin
• Brazilian visas, if required
CONDITIONS:
A 50% deposit is required to hold your reservation. Full payment is due 60 days prior to commencement of the programme
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