Pirarucu Lodge is a haven for passionate fly fishing enthusiasts seeking the ultimate challenge: chasing the giant arapaima on a fly rod. This unparalleled journey into the heart of Brazil’s Amazon basin promises not only an angler’s dream but also an encounter with one of the world’s most remarkable and prehistoric aquatic giants. The pursuit of the arapaima at Pirarucu Lodge is a testament to the intersection of nature, sport, and adrenaline, set against the backdrop of a pristine paradise that few have the privilege to explore. This video gives a taste of what the fishing is like in this extraordinary setting.
Keep an eye on this page for the Pirarucu Lodge 2025 season fishing reports which include highlights and statistics from the season. Pirarucú is an extraordinary jungle lodge set in the largest arapaima reserve in the world. It’s the perfect spot from which to target these ancient fish which can grow to over 400lb and most closely resemble a freshwater tarpon. We will update the page with all the weekly news from the guides on the ground.
Pirarucu Lodge 2025 Season Fishing Reports – Week 7: October 1 to 9
This stretch at Pirarucú Lodge brought together anglers from across the globe, all drawn by the challenge of connecting with the giants of the Mamirauá Reserve. The atmosphere was lively and full of energy, with every day delivering remarkable moments on the water.
Fishing was strong from the start, producing several massive arapaima and a continued run of tambaqui that seem to grow larger with each passing season. The variety of species and the consistency of the action kept everyone engaged, as anglers experienced both the intensity and serenity that define Pirarucú’s jungle waters.
The defining moment came with the capture of a colossal 230 cm arapaima—an encounter that demanded strength, precision, and patience in equal measure. Another remarkable story came early in the period, when a pair of visiting anglers achieved a rare “jungle slam,” landing arapaima, tambaqui, and arowana in a single day.
Moments like these capture the essence of Pirarucú: wild, unpredictable, and deeply rewarding for those who approach it with respect and persistence.
Total number of Arapaima landed: 32
Biggest fish landed: 230 cm (7.5 feet)
Other species: 18 Tambaqui and 49 Arowana
Pirarucu Lodge 2025 Season Fishing Reports – Week 6: September 23 to 30
This period was marked by a lively mix of familiar friends and new faces on the water. Among them were two world-renowned chefs, Alex Atala and his friend Hasegawa from Japan, who proved that their skills extend far beyond the kitchen. Both showed true passion for the river, connecting with impressive fish and embracing the challenges of Pirarucú.
Alongside them, our friends Ed, Curt, Phill, and others brought their energy and enthusiasm, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie both on and off the water. Every cast carried a sense of excitement, and the diversity of species kept rods bent and spirits high.
Total number of Arapaima landed: 14
Biggest fish landed: Over 2 meters by Hasegawa
Other species: 28 Tambaqui and 62 Arowana
Pirarucu Lodge 2025 Season Fishing Reports – Week 5: September 15 to 22
This week at Pirarucú Lodge we welcomed a vibrant group of seven, friends from across Europe. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and the atmosphere was filled with camaraderie both on and off the water.
Their persistence was rewarded with remarkable encounters. The river produced giants of awe-inspiring size, including five fish weighing over 250lb—a rare accomplishment in the world of fly fishing. Every battle with these prehistoric fish demanded resilience and precision, and each success became a story to be carried far beyond the Amazon.
The defining moment came with Helmuth’s capture of a 225cm arapaima, a fish of monumental size that showcased the raw power and mystery of the species. Beyond the giants, spirited arowana and powerful tambaqui added variety to the fishing, keeping rods bent and anglers engaged throughout the days. Together, these encounters painted a vivid picture of why Pirarucú remains one of the most extraordinary fisheries on earth.
Pirarucu Lodge 2025 Season Fishing Reports – Week 4: September 8 to 14
The lodge welcomed a diverse group of anglers from around the world, including new friends from Sweden, Idaho, and South Carolina, alongside our longtime guest Jeff and our first visitor from Japan, Itchiro. It was a fantastic mix of experienced anglers and newcomers, all united by a deep respect for the arapaima and the Amazon environment.
Fishing improved steadily throughout the week, and the dedication of our guests was rewarded with unforgettable encounters. Arapaima delivered their signature explosive power, while the variety of other species added even more colour to the adventure. Every fish fought and every photograph taken became part of a shared memory that will last far beyond the river.
The largest arapaima of the period was landed by Hannes, measuring 190cm. Beyond the giants, one of the most exciting aspects was the opportunity to target tambaqui on the fly. Their strength and unpredictability left no doubt that they rank among the toughest fish in the jungle. Side-casting for this species gave our anglers a unique challenge and showcased the incredible diversity of Pirarucú.
Fishing Stats:
Total number of Arapaima landed in the week – 24
Biggest fish landed in the week: three arapaima over 1.9 metres.
Other species: 23 tambaqui and 34 arowana
Pirarucu Lodge 2025 Season Fishing Reports – Week 3: September 1 to 5
A lively and energetic group bought plenty of energy to Piraricú this week. Coming off a combination trip with the Rio Marié they had already experienced the thrill of giant peacock bass and here they continued their Amazon adventure by connecting with the prehistoric giants of the Mamirauá Reserve.
Among the many memorable stories, one stood out: 20-year-old Patsy, who managed to land a 20lb peacock bass at Marié and then followed it with a massive arapaima estimated at 200lb at Pirarucú. Few anglers can claim such a feat, and her achievement became the highlight of the start, inspiring the entire group.
The size of the arapaima continued to impress, with three giants over 190cm landed after powerful, drawn-out battles. The mix of species also added variety, as anglers enjoyed action from spirited arowana between encounters with arapaima. Combined with the camaraderie of the group, this opening period at Pirarucú delivered a balance of fun, challenge, and unforgettable memories.
Fishing Stats:
Total number of Arapaima landed in the week – 14
Biggest fish landed in the week: three arapaima over 1.9 metres.
Pirarucu Lodge 2025 Season Fishing Reports – Week 1: August 17 to 27
The 2025 opening at Pirarucú Lodge was a vivid reminder of the Amazon’s untamed rhythm. High waters set a demanding stage, where tracking active fish called for sharp instincts from our guides and a precise reading of the river. Each cast carried weight and anticipation, yet it became clear that rewards belonged only to those ready to adapt — and persist.
Thanks to the commitment of our guides and the persistence of our guests, the challenges quickly turned into rewarding outcomes. When the arapaima appeared, they did so with unmistakable size and strength. Surface takes, powerful runs, and memorable encounters marked the beginning of the season. Each fish landed reflected both effort and resilience, adding depth to every success.
The defining moments came from sheer size and strength. Three arapaima over two meters were landed after demanding battles, while several more slipped away. Each encounter revealed the raw, prehistoric power of the species — a challenge that calls for both skill and persistence.
Fishing Stats:
Total number of Arapaima landed in the week – 9
Biggest fish landed in the week: three arapaima over two metres.
If you have found these Pirarucu Lodge 2025 fishing reports interesting and would like more information then please do not hesitate to contact Peter by EMAIL or call our office on +44(0)1980 847 389
