Rio Madeira Peacock Bass

This region fishes well from July (Rio Marmelos) through November (Igapo Acu). Mostly clear water provides excellent conditions for both fly and conventional tackle. The Madeira, like the Solimoes and the Rio Branco carries suspended particulate matter and is not itself a fruitful peacock fishery, but many of its lower tributaries, such as the Igapo Acu, Matupiri and Marmelos provide perfect peacock habitat. These rivers range from relatively clear to lightly stained blackwater and are equally excellent for fly and conventional anglers. They typically produce large numbers of peacock bass, with a high concentration toward the smaller sizes while still offering access to big hulking 20+ pounders that lurk here. This is the place to go if your goal is lots of action with a variety of fishing styles. Under good conditions, these waters will produce 15 to 50 fish per angler per day, yet still provide trophies into the 20 pound class. We usually concentrate on this region in September and October, when water levels are generally perfect. The Rio Madeira basin represents a great balance between quantity and size and is a great place to start a serious peacock bass habit.