Jatapu River Fishing - Brazil

Upper Jatapu River

The Jatapu River is a substantial Amazon tributary, not a small jungle stream. It runs for roughly 250 to 310 miles through northern Brazil before joining the Uatuma River.
The upper river can narrow considerably around rocky channels, islands, rapids, waterfalls, and exposed ancient bedrock. The river flows over a stable bed of ancient rock and sand, and its incredibly clear water provides exceptional opportunities to sight-cast to trophy fish of several species.

Peacock Bass

Season:  October through January (the dry season) provides the most stable, low-water conditions for pristine clarity and peak topwater action.
Species:  Pinima peacock bass (Cichla pinima) are the featured target, along with payara, wolffish (traira), bicuda, and matrinxa. Giant redtail catfish are also present, some exceeding 100 pounds.
Topwater fishing can be excellent for aggressive wolffish (traira), bicuda, and peacock bass. Payara up to about 25 pounds patrol the faster water, while deep pools can hold very large catfish. Some fast-water areas also allow anglers to get out of the boat and walk or wade. Small runoff tributaries entering the main river create additional holding water around nearly every bend.

Guides and Boats

Guides:   The Portuguese-speaking guides speak enough fishing English to be understood. They are local natives born nd raised on these exact water systems.
Boats:  18-ft. aluminum skiffs with 30 to 50 HP engines. Elevated casting platforms at the bow and stern allow two anglers to fish at the same time.

Fishing Equipment

Fishing Equipment:  No gear or flies are provided. You should arrive fully prepared with rods, reels, lines, leaders, flies, clothing, and personal gear. Once at camp, there is no way to replace a broken rod or forgotten item.
Flies:  Large poppers in sizes 2/0 to 4/0 and streamers in sizes 1/0 to 4/0 are recommended. Bring 3 to 4 dozen unweighted streamers.
Leaders:  30- to 50-pound fluorocarbon or monofilament, depending on the fishing situation.

Jatapu River Lodge

Jatapu River Lodge:  The new eco-lodge was designed for a low-impact footprint. The camp is positioned on a rugged, fast-flowing section of the river. The project is in partnership with local indigenous communities and with environmental and governmental oversight.
Guest Cabins:  Individual soft-walled jungle cabins with comfortable beds, running water, and solar-powered electricity, including the air conditioning.

Meals and Appetizers

Meals at the Lodge:  Enjoy well-prepared Brazilian meals at the Lodge--fresh breads and cakes, tropical fruit, beef, chicken, pork, and fish.
Beverages:  Sodas, juices, bottled mineral water, coffee, and tea.
Alcoholic Drinks:  Cold beer, wine, and spirits (such as caipirinhas, Brazil's national cocktail).
The Setting:  The Lodge is isolated within the Uatuma Biological Reserve, on a protected river and rainforest environment where wildlife is abundant. In the tree canopies lining the river, you'll hear howler and spider monkeys. You may see tapirs and giant otters early in the morning on narrow creeks. Front-row viewing of the harpy eagle, macaws, toucans, kingfishers, and more.

A Typical Fishing Day

6:00 a.m. – Coffee
6:30 a.m. – Buffet-style breakfast; anglers select and pack their lunch for the day.
7:00 to 7:30 a.m. – Depart with your guide for the fishing grounds.
Noon – Lunch on the river, typically in a shady location; hammocks are available for a short rest.
2:00 p.m. – Resume fishing
5:00 p.m. – Return to the camp.
5:00 to 7:00 p.m. – Cocktails, appetizers, and time to relax.
7:00 p.m. – Dinner

Getting to the Jatapu River

American Airlines offers a common non-stop service from Miami to Manaus for U.S. travelers.
You'll fly to Manaus, Brazil, one day before the trip starts so you have time to rest after international travel and as a buffer in case of airline delays. The lodge staff provides the necessary ground transfers in Manaus and the air and ground transfers from Manaus to the river. The next morning, the group will be driven 4 to 5 hours on paved roads to the floatplane base on the Uatuma River launch point in Itapiranga, a small riverside town. Here, guests board a charter floatplane (typically a Cessna Caravan or a de Havilland Otter) for about a one-hour flight (Included) deep into the remote, pristine headwaters of the Rio Jatapu.
Baggage Weight Limit:  Luggage and carry-on total of 33 to 35 pounds (15 Kg). Do not overpack clothing as daily laundry service is provided. (Non-fishing gear can usually be left at your hotel in luggage storage.)
Departure Day:  After breakfast, you'll take a one-hour flight back to Itapiranga.
Hotel Nights:  Hotel nights in Manaus before or after the fishing week are not included in the package. Our confirmation packet lists hotel recommendations.

2027 / 2028 USD Rate:

Our advice is free.
We never charge more than the lodges or outfitters we represent.

7 nights / 6 to 6.5 days guided fishing
Double occupancy
$6,950 per person

The Package Includes:

• Reception at Manaus Airport
• Necessary ground transfers in Manaus
• Ground and floatplane transfers between Manaus and the river
• 7 nights lodging
• All meals and beverages, including alcohol
• Daily laundry service
• 6 to 6.5 days guided fishing
• Fishing license

The Package Does Not Include:

• International airfare
• Hotel stays before and after the fishing week
• Meals in Manaus and private city tours
• Global Rescue coverage
• Travel insurance
• Gratuities for guides and staff
• Anything not listed under inclusions.