What kind of tackle do I need? - Most anglers will do fine using tackle they already own.  Bringing two complete outfits is a good idea for several reasons.  For the trophy peacocks found in the Amazon lowlands, a sturdy medium-heavy baitcasting or spinning outfit, rated for at least 20 to 30-pound test line is necessary for casting the heavier lures  Also pack a second, medium-light rig, rated at about 14 to 20-pound test to handle smaller baits, to take a rest from the heavy rig and to provide back-up in the event of a broken rod or reel.  These lighter rigs are also standard gear for the smaller fish found in Peru and Bolivia.  A wide array of lures are effective on peacock bass (see our pre-trip information section on lures), including several very big surface lures and several fairly small subsurface jigs and spoons.  Having two rods rigged and ready to go enables you to effectively respond to fishing conditions and situations.

    Fly fishermen will also be well served with two outfits.  For the larger peacocks, a 9 or 10-weight outfit rigged with a 300-grain, 24-foot sinking Rio or Teeny 300 24' sink tip line is best under most conditions.  An 8-weight rod rigged with a bass bug taper floating line is best suited for fishing poppers and sliders.  A variety of poppers, sliders and  especially, large streamers will wreak havoc with peacocks under the right river and water conditions  (see our pre-trip information section on fly-fishing).

    Proper tackle for peacock bass fishing can be obtained directly on-line through Tackle-box.net or call or e-mail Acute Angling (contact Paul Reiss or Garry Reiss.  We can prepare a complete, basic, peacock bass tackle package for under $500.00 as well as advise you as to what gear and lure selection is best suited to the particular river or location you have in mind. the weight they lost during spawning.  These periods vary in their timing from river to river.