South America
South America offers some of the most thrilling freshwater fishing on the planet, with iconic species like arapaima, peacock bass, and golden dorado found in legendary river systems like the Amazon and Paraná. Anglers can explore everything from jungle streams and highland lakes to vast estuaries, targeting giants like redtail catfish, wolf fish, and trout in remote, scenic settings. On the saltwater side, the Atlantic and Pacific coasts deliver incredible action for species like roosterfish, snook, jacks, dorado, tuna, and marlin—especially off Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil—making South America a true all-round destination for adventurous anglers.
Fishing Trips in South America
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the best fishing destinations in South America?
South America offers legendary fisheries for traveling anglers. The Amazon Basin is world-famous for Peacock Bass, Payara, and giant Catfish. Argentina and Bolivia are the top destinations for Golden Dorado, while Patagonia in Argentina and Chile is a fly-fishing paradise for wild brown and rainbow trout. Colombia’s rivers also provide incredible jungle fishing for Peacock Bass and Payara.
When is the best time to fish for Peacock Bass in the Amazon?
The prime season is during the low-water months when lagoons and backwaters become accessible. This usually runs from October through March depending on the river system. During this time, Peacock Bass concentrate in shallower water, creating explosive topwater action.
Are fishing trips in the Amazon safe?
Yes, trips are safe due to the remoteness of the locations and safety issues are very rare. Amazon motherships and jungle lodges have experienced guides, safe boats, and provide filtered drinking water and modern accommodations. Vaccinations and mosquito protection are recommended, and our expert team will guide you on health and safety preparations before your trip.
Golden Dorado: Argentina vs Bolivia?
Argentina’s Paraná River is the most famous fishery, and along with its tributaries is home to Dorado over 30 pounds that ambush baitfish in massive runs and side channels. In contrast, Bolivia offers a more intimate jungle setting, where anglers sight-cast in crystal-clear rivers like the Pluma and Secure. Both regions regularly produce world-class trophy fish.
What species can I target in South America besides Dorado and Peacock Bass?
South America offers incredible diversity. In the Amazon you can catch Payara, Wolf Fish, Bicuda, Arowana, Arapaima, Piraiba Catfish, and Redtail Catfish. Patagonia adds rainbow trout, brown trout and king salmon. Along the coasts, saltwater anglers target roosterfish, cuberra snapper, tuna, sailfish, and dorado (mahi-mahi).
What makes Patagonia one of the world’s best fishing destinations?
Patagonia, stretching across southern Argentina and Chile, is a dream destination for trout anglers. The region is famous for its crystal-clear rivers like the Limay, Collón Curá, Futaleufú, and Malleo, where wild brown and rainbow trout rise to dry flies under the shadow of the Andes. In the glacial lakes, trout can reach trophy sizes well over 10 pounds, and some waters even hold brook trout.