Zaltana Mothership

Fishing aboard Zaltana is focused on trophy peacock bass in the Upper Rio Negro and its remote tributaries, including waters around the Uneuixi, Tea, Aiuana and Rio Preto systems. The mothership’s mobility allows it to follow favourable water levels and position anglers close to the best available fishing. Days may be spent exploring narrow creeks, flooded forest edges, sandbars, lagoons and larger river channels, with the exact area selected according to current conditions and local access regulations.

Anglers may encounter four recognised forms of peacock bass: royal, paca, butterfly and popoca. The large speckled paca peacock bass is the principal trophy target, with fish exceeding 20 pounds possible in the Upper Rio Negro. Other species regularly encountered include arowana, piranha, payara and several Amazon catfish, including piraiba and redtail catfish. The fishing is catch and release, with guides helping anglers photograph and return fish safely.

The main approach is lure fishing with medium-heavy baitcasting or spinning equipment. Surface prop baits, walking baits, jerkbaits, diving minnows and jigs are used according to fish activity and water conditions. A conventional tackle package containing rods, reels and lures is included. Fly fishing can also be arranged, but fly anglers must bring their own rods, reels, lines, leaders and flies.

The season runs from September through March, when falling water levels generally concentrate fish in the river channels, lagoons and accessible margins. Water levels can rise or fall quickly, so the mothership may change position during the week to remain close to productive areas. Anglers fish from aluminium bass boats equipped with 40-horsepower outboards and electric trolling motors. Each boat carries two anglers and one local guide, with unlimited fuel included.

Zaltana accommodates up to 20 anglers in ten spacious, air-conditioned suites. Accommodation is based on two anglers sharing, with each suite measuring approximately 180 square feet and containing full-size beds, river views and storage for clothing and personal equipment.

Every suite has a private bathroom with a hot-water shower. Electricity, air conditioning and daily housekeeping are provided throughout the stay, while laundry service is included without ironing.

Shared areas include an air-conditioned dining room, lounge, television and gaming room, open-air deck and a large solarium with tables and sun loungers. The open bar and outdoor gathering areas provide space for anglers to relax and discuss the day’s fishing.

Breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner are served aboard. Anglers can return to the mothership for lunch or remain on the water with a packed meal when fishing farther away. Water, soft drinks, juices and the selected onboard beverage package are included. Starlink Wi-Fi is available throughout the vessel.

The Zaltana Mothership operates from Santa Isabel do Rio Negro in the Brazilian state of Amazonas. Santa Isabel provides access to the Upper Rio Negro and a wide network of tributaries, lagoons and remote fishing areas. There is no practical road connection from Manaus, so anglers travel by private charter aircraft.

International anglers first fly into Eduardo Gomes International Airport in Manaus, normally shown as MAO. The standard program includes one hotel night in Manaus before the charter. Anglers arriving separately from the main group may need to arrange and pay for their own airport transfer.

The following morning, anglers are collected from the hotel at approximately 5:30 am for the early charter flight to Santa Isabel do Rio Negro. On arrival, a local transfer takes the group to the port and the waiting mothership. The flight and transfer schedule can change according to weather, aircraft operations and river conditions.

At the end of the trip, anglers return to Santa Isabel for the charter back to Manaus, normally arriving in time for international flights departing after approximately 3:30 pm. A later flight or additional night in Manaus provides greater protection against weather or operational delays.

Rates Per Angler:
Available Upon Request

What’s Included:

What’s Not Included:

Day 1: Arrival in Manaus
Arrive at Manaus International Airport and transfer to the included hotel. Check-in normally begins from 2:00 pm. The remainder of the day is free for anglers to rest or explore Manaus, with meals paid separately.

Day 2: Charter Flight to Santa Isabel do Rio Negro
Leave the hotel at approximately 5:30 am and transfer to the airport for the early charter flight to Santa Isabel do Rio Negro. On arrival, continue to the port and board the Zaltana Mothership. After settling into the suites, anglers meet the guides, organise tackle and attend an orientation before dinner.

Days 3 to 8: Fishing Days
Each morning begins with breakfast before anglers leave in pairs with their guide. Fishing takes place across the Rio Negro tributaries, lagoons and backwaters selected according to water levels and recent activity. Anglers can return to the mothership for lunch or remain on the water with a packed meal. Fishing continues through the afternoon before returning for dinner and drinks. During the final afternoon, Zaltana begins navigating back towards Santa Isabel.

Day 9: Return to Manaus
Disembark in Santa Isabel do Rio Negro and take the charter flight back to Manaus, normally departing at around 11:00 am. On arrival, anglers transfer to the international terminal for flights scheduled after approximately 3:30 pm.

What level of fishing experience is required?
Zaltana accommodates both experienced peacock bass anglers and those visiting the Amazon for the first time. Guides provide help with lure selection, casting, presentations and fish handling. Anglers should expect physically active fishing with repeated casting throughout the day.

How many anglers fish from each boat?
Each fishing boat normally carries two anglers and one local guide. The vessel has ten equipped bass boats, allowing up to 20 anglers to fish when the mothership is at full capacity.

Is fishing equipment included?
Yes. A conventional tackle package containing rods, baitcasting reels and selected lures is included. The current equipment includes heavy braided line suitable for trophy peacock bass, although specific brands and models may change between seasons.

Can anglers bring their own equipment?
Yes. Anglers can bring personal baitcasting or spinning reels and preferred lures. At least two reels are recommended because peacock bass fishing is demanding on equipment. Anglers using the supplied rods remain responsible for damage caused by misuse.

Can anglers fly fish?
Yes, but fly-fishing equipment is not provided. Fly anglers should bring suitable rods, reels, tropical lines, leaders and flies. Hooks must be packed in checked luggage when flying.

What is the best time to visit?
The Zaltana season runs from September through March. The best week depends on the movement of low water through the Rio Negro system, which can vary each year. The mothership changes position according to water levels and the most productive available fishing.

Is a fishing licence required?
Yes. A Brazilian fishing licence is mandatory and is included in the package. Local reservation and community fishing access fees are also included.

Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes. Starlink Wi-Fi is available aboard the mothership. Service is suitable for general communication, although occasional interruptions are possible in such a remote location.

What is the luggage allowance?
Charter aircraft have restricted baggage capacity. Anglers should use soft-sided luggage and follow the final weight allowance supplied before departure. Daily laundry service allows clothing to be kept to a minimum.

Are mosquitoes a major problem?
Mosquito numbers are generally lower around the tannin-rich waters of the Rio Negro than in many other parts of the Amazon. Other insects can still be present, so anglers should bring repellent and lightweight clothing that provides good coverage.