Pirarucú Lodge

Arapaima Fishing in the Mamirauá Reserve

Giant Arapaima, Floating Lodge & Floodplain Lagoons

If you’re looking to target the Amazon’s most iconic freshwater giant, this is the place. Pirarucú Lodge is located in Brazil’s Mamirauá Reserve—a protected floodplain ecosystem that provides ideal habitat for arapaima, one of the world’s largest freshwater predators. This unique fishery offers a rare opportunity to sight-cast to these giants as they roll and gulp air at the surface.

Each week, a maximum of eight anglers gain exclusive access to this remote fishery. You’ll explore a dynamic network of lagoons, channels, and backwaters that support not only trophy arapaima, but also species such as arowana and tambaqui. With floating suites, professional guides, and a full-service lodge, Pirarucú is an unmatched arapaima adventure.

Giant Arapaima Fishing

Species: Arapaima (primary target), Arowana, and Tambaqui.

Starting Point: Manaus, Brazil

Location: Mamirauá Reserve, Western Amazon Basin

Season: Mid-September to Late November

Accommodation: Floating Lodge (double-occupancy suites)

Operator: Untamed Angling Brazil

The Fishing

The Mamirauá Reserve is a shallow, seasonally flooded forest that forms one of the world’s best natural arapaima habitats. These massive predators surface often to breathe, giving anglers a rare chance to locate fish over 200 pounds. Explosive takes and thrashing surface battles make every hook-up a heart-pounding event.

While arapaima are the stars of the show, the fishery offers excellent variety. You’ll also cast for arowana, tambaqui, and occassionally small yellow peacock bass, all in beautifully complex habitats. The reserve’s rich biodiversity and protected waters ensure healthy fish populations and consistent action across multiple species.

This is one of the only destinations where anglers—fly or conventional—can reliably fish for true giant arapaima in a remote, fully supported setting.

The Lodge

Pirarucú Lodge is a network of floating cabins built over calm backwaters inside the reserve. Each double-occupancy suite includes a private bathroom with hot shower, screened windows, and fans to ensure comfort in the humid rainforest climate.

A central floating dining room serves hearty meals and local cuisine, while a covered lounge area offers space to relax, share stories, and enjoy the natural surroundings. Daily laundry and Wi-Fi are available, and every fishing day starts just minutes from your door—no long boat rides required.

This floating lodge design allows you to stay immersed in the jungle ecosystem while enjoying the comforts of a fully equipped fishing operation.

The Itinerary

We recommend international departures be booked for the day after your return from the lodge to allow for any travel delays. Extra nights in Manaus can be arranged.

DAY 1

Arrive in Manaus (recommend arrival at least 1 day early)

DAY 2

Commercial flight to Tefé, then boat transfer to the lodge