Blackwater Explorer
RIO NEGRO PEACOCK BASS FISHING
A Comfortable, Consistently Productive
Amazon Fishing Experience
Some fishing trips are all about a single-minded purpose — this one is a lot more. The Blackwater Explorer delivers access to the world’s biggest peacock bass fishery in the heart of Brazil’s Rio Negro basin, all while providing a comfortable, full-service experience in one of the Amazon’s most beautiful settings. It’s the best of both worlds—remote Amazon peacock bass fishing paired with the convenience of a well-run operation.
This is our most popular and most consistently productive trip—recommended especially for anglers who are looking for constant action with Amazon peacock bass (Cichla temensis).
Great Mix of Numbers &
Size + Atmosphere
Species: Giant Peacock Bass (Cichla Temensis)
Starting Point: Manaus, Brazil
Location: Central Amazon Basin
Season: Mid October to February
Accommodation: Air-Conditioned Yacht
Operator: Da Silva Navigations & Tourism
The Fishing
This region offers a great mix of numbers and size, with peacock bass ready to crush topwater lures and chase subsurface baits all day long. Fishing is two anglers per guide, with full-day access to remote waters via nimble 17-foot Jon boats. Whether you’re a first-time Amazon angler or a seasoned veteran, the fishing here is fun, fast-paced, and addictive.
You'll target Cichla temensis, known for its violent surface strikes and unmatched aggression, as well as encounter its colorful cousins, Cichla orinocensis and Cichla monoculus. These fish hit hard, fight harder, and offer anglers a fast-paced and highly visual experience that has made this one of the most sought-after sport fisheries in the world.
The Explorer’s mobility and shallow draft allow us to move with the changing water levels and find productive areas throughout the season—places other boats simply can’t reach.
The Accommodations
Built specifically for accessing remote Amazon waters, the Blackwater Explorer yacht is a spacious, air-conditioned mothership that provides a comfortable home base throughout your fishing week.
Features include:
Private bathrooms with hot showers in every cabin
Roomy cabins with 2-meter-high ceilings and plenty of storage
Spacious dining area and lounge with large windows and comfortable seating
Upper-deck viewing area for appetizers, drinks, and sunset views
Daily laundry service and Starlink internet onboard
Doors that open directly to the outdoors—no dark hallways
The Explorer can fish areas others simply can’t get to
This is definitely not roughing it! You’ll enjoy excellent meals, plenty of space to unwind, and a helpful crew ready to make your stay relaxing and smooth.
Plan & Prepare Your Trip
A quick look at how your trip on the Amazon will unfold — and where to find everything you need to get ready beforehand.
Planning an expedition with Acute Angling is about more than just booking your dates — it’s about preparing for one of the greatest adventures of your life. To make your journey smooth, safe, and stress-free, we’ve created detailed Trip Preparation Guides for each of our destinations.
Your Route, at a Glance
DAYS 1–2
Manaus to the Blackwater Explorer
Arrive in Manaus, meet your host, and charter onward to the river to board your yacht and start fishing that same afternoon.
DAYS 3–8
Fishing the Rio Negro Basin
Six full days on the water with your guide, chasing giant peacock bass across prime tributaries as the yacht follows the best conditions.
DAYS 9–10
Return to Manaus & Departure
Cruise back to Manaus for an overnight stay before your flight home.
Want the full day-by-day breakdown? See the complete itinerary →
What's Included
What's Not Included
All meals and beverages (beer, wine, and select liquor)
Charter flights and airport transfers in Brazil
Two hotel nights in Manaus (One night pre-trip and one night post-trip)
All tackle and bait: conventional rods, lures, and gear provided
Starlink internet on the boat and Wi-Fi at the hotel
Daily laundry and housekeeping service
International flights to/from Manaus
Travel and evacuation insurance (not required but strongly encouraged)
Gratuities for guides, crew, and staff
What's Included
All meals and beverages (beer, wine, and select liquor)
Charter flights and airport transfers in Brazil
Two hotel nights in Manaus (One night pre-trip and one night post-trip)
All tackle and bait: conventional rods, lures, and gear provided
Starlink internet on the boat and Wi-Fi at the hotel
Daily laundry and housekeeping service
What's Not Included
International flights to/from Manaus
Travel and evacuation insurance (not required but strongly encouraged)
Gratuities for guides, crew, and staff
Season & Pricing
This Amazon peacock bass fishing trip operates from mid-October through February, following the dry season for optimal water conditions. Space is limited and weeks fill quickly.
Double Occupancy:
$5,495
Single Occupancy:
$5,995
Single Boat Supplement:
$1,000 (1 angler to 1 guide)
Our standard setup is two anglers per boat and guide. If you prefer to fish solo, simply add the single boat supplement to your package. This is the Amazon done right—comfortable, remote, and reliably action-packed.
Book your trip or call (866) 832-2987 to reserve your spot!
Add-On Option:
Arapaima Day Trip
If you have an extra day in Manaus, ask us about our Arapaima day trip add-on—an unforgettable chance to fish for one of the Amazon’s most iconic species.
TESTIMONIALS
What others are saying
"My wife and I have been on 2 trips with Acute Angling, both on the Blackwater Explorer. Incredible trips! Every aspect of the trip is an adventure you only dream about…
The fishing was epic on both of our trips, you couldn't ask for anything else."
- Terry H.
“My trip with Acute Angling on the Rio Negro via the BlackWater Explorer was absolutely wonderful and exceeded all our expectations…the entire Blackwater staff catered to our every need…Our fishing guide was outstanding, very skilled and experienced, and worked as hard as he could to put us on abundant and large Peacock Bass every day.
I highly recommend Acute Angling and will certainly be booking them again for my next Amazon fishing adventure! Thank you, Acute Angling!”
- Todd D.
“This was our second trip with Acute Angling, and it was even better than the first! Our guide was top notch, the crew was friendly, and the food was delicious.
I highly recommend this amazing experience on the Blackwater Explorer with Acute Angling!”
- Julie H.
(866) 832-2987
