Despite their dinosaur-like size and armor-plated scales, arapaima are incredibly graceful predators. They glide through still lagoons, gulping air with a loud whoosh, then explode into action when hooked—often launching into the air like a tarpon. These giants are native to the Amazon and have been revered for centuries by local communities as both a food source and a mythical creature.

Our trips are timed around seasonal conditions that maximize your chances of success. At Pirarucú Lodge, receding water levels in the Mamirauá Reserve concentrate arapaima in landlocked lagoons, where they become highly accessible to anglers. At the Manaus-based day trip site, year-round management and low angling pressure provide a reliable chance at connecting with trophy fish close to the city.

Whether you’re planning a full-scale expedition or just have a buffer day in your travel schedule, we offer the best ways to fish for arapaima in South America. We handle the guides, tackle, logistics, and accommodations—just bring your sense of adventure and get ready for the fight of your life. With decades of experience and access to some of the Amazon’s most productive fisheries, Acute Angling is your trusted outfitter for giant arapaima fishing.