Table of Contents      The Trip Mission Statement Travel Information Itineraries Getting to Camp Camp Accommodations Yacht Accomodations Meals & Camp Life Health, Sun and Insects Amazon Overview Emergency Contacts

Table of Contents      The Fishing Peacock Bass Characteristics Angling Hints Lure and Fly Guidelines Equipment Recommendations Fly Fishing Checklist Lure Selection Chart      General  Return to Peacock Bass Menu Acute Angling Home Page

Getting ready for a peacock bass fishing trip to the Amazon takes careful planning and preparation.....and you get to play with all of your fishing stuff.

MISSION STATEMENT -- For nearly a decade, Acute Angling and  River Plate Anglers have been cooperating to provide anglers with the opportunity to pursue giant peacock bass.  River Plate's moveable fishing camps and their elegant "Amazon Angel" yacht provide optimal access to some of the most remote waters in the Amazon Basin.  Through a detailed process of trial and error, we have added to, changed or eliminated various aspects of these trip's many elements in an attempt to make the most efficient, productive and comfortable fishing experience possible.  Acute Angling and River Plate Anglers number one concern is to bring our valuable clients to the very best fishing the Amazon has to offer.  In order to do this, we go as far into the interior as possible to get you away from all human intrusion.  The end result is an unparalleled record for outstanding catches, both in terms of size and numbers.  Isolation is in the angler's favor, but with it often comes unique challenges from an outfitting standpoint.  The following guide is designed to detail the inner workings of the camp or yacht as it concerns your weekly stay.  We will continue to strive to create the very best angling experience available in the Amazon basin.  Your comments, suggestions and critiques in improving any aspect of the camp are always much appreciated.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS --  A valid U.S. passport is required for entrance into all South American countries.   Make sure your passport is current and does not expire before or while you are out of the United States. It takes up to a month to process a new passport, so please plan accordingly.  Brazil requires a tourist visa for all U.S. citizens. To obtain a visa, your valid  passport must be sent to the nearest Brazilian Consulate General at least three weeks prior to departure (your passport cannot expire within three months of entrance into Brazil to obtain a visa). We can provide you with a Brazilian visa application along with detailed instructions for completing it at the time of registration.  We can also recommend a visa service that will do all the processing for you.  Brazil makes everyone fill out a 'tourist card', which will be provided by the airline prior to landing in the country.  Make sure not to lose your stamped copy of this document after you proceed through customs -- customs officials will fine you $150.00 if you try to leave the country without presenting a receipt of your tourist card.  A departure tax of approximately $30.00 is assessed at the time of departure from Manaus.

BAGGAGE REQUIREMENTS -- There is a strictly-enforced 44-pound weight restriction in effect on all charter aircraft (extra items will need to be left in Manaus).  If your schedule allows, we encourage you to check your bags from point to point when departing the U.S. This way you can track them right away if any pieces are missing.  In case of lost or delayed luggage on arrival in your destination country, we encourage everyone to carry pack rods, reels and other essential fishing equipment in their carry-on baggage (with at least one change of casual clothing).  A soft tackle bag, packed with the minimum basic fishing and personal necessities makes a great carry-on bag.  Please do not bring hard  luggage or coolers to camp.

CLOTHING:  Please pack in a flexible duffel bag to facilitate ease of handling in small aircraft.  For traveling, we recommend wearing loose fitting, lightweight, light-colored cottons or synthetics (Tarpon Wear, Patagonia etc...).  Some fabrics allow passage of UV rays, so don't bring just any old shirt (we've seen people severely sunburned right through their clothes!)  Long pants and sleeves are best to protect from sunburn and hide ankles from biting insects.  All camps have daily laundry service, so please don't over-pack (remember weight restrictions)

FLIGHT INFORMATION -- Our travel service will be happy to handle all your domestic and international airline reservations.  If you plan to book the reservations separately, remember to do so well in advance of your planned departure date (January/February air reservations fill up at least five months in advance due to Carnival).
 

GETTING TO CAMP --  Upon arrival in Manaus, you will need to proceed through customs.  After passing through customs, River Plate Angler’s transfer agent, Brahma will meet you at the arrival gate.  He will transfer everyone to the Tropical Hotel (or another convenient location) for breakfast, then transfer everyone to the appropriate departure point for their specific trip.
Fall Yacht Trips - Travelers on our fall yacht trips will be transferred by van before dawn to a local river port for a ferry boat ride across the Amazon.  After disembarking the ferry, the group will board an airconditioned bus for the approximately 2-hour ride to the port town of Autazes.  At Autazes you will board the Amazon Angel (right in time for breakfast).
Fall Safari Trips - After breakfast (approximately 7-8:00 AM), travelers on our fall fly-in safari trips will be taken to the domestic airport (in the same building complex as the International airport) for a twin engine charter (or commercial) flight to an airstip convenient to the river of our selected fishing grounds.  There you will either board our 8-passenger Cessna Caravan float plane or you will ride in one of our fishing boats for the trip to camp (this is dependent on the river being fished).   On some rivers, a short afternoon fishing session on the day of arrival may be possible if you can get to camp in time to settle in and get geared up.
Winter Float Plane Safari Trips - After breakfast (approximately 7-8:00 AM), travelers on our winter fly-in safari trips will be taken to the domestic airport where they will board our 8-passenger Cessna Caravan float plane for the trip to camp (typically about a 1-hour flight).   Generally, an afternoon fishing session on the day of arrival is possible after you get to camp,  settle in, and get geared up.
For all Anglers - Our Agent, Brahma will make sure to confirm all angler's return international air reservations.   It is standard procedure to have your bags weighed before getting on any of the domestic flights (you will be asked to lighten your load if your luggage is over-weight).  Some points to consider for all of the trips;

• Always use your life vest during prolonged boat runs.
• Always use sunscreen and a hat or you could be severely burned (Sun Gloves and sunglasses should be worn during the boat ride).
• Bring along a rain suit.
• Have repellent handy and put it on before getting off the charter plane.
• Make sure to drink plenty of water or other fluids to avoid dehydration.

Sand -- Our bungalow camps are often situated on or near a sandy beach.  Please try and avoid tracking sand into your bungalow.  If at all possible, remove your shoes before going into the unit.
Water -- Please do not bring your glasses from the dining area.  Each unit will have its own drinking glasses and water thermos.  The camp’s water is carefully filtered through disposable, Red Cross-approved ceramic filters.
Power Source/Batteries -- All units have their own, separate power source,  consisting of a large 12-volt, rechargeable gel battery.  These batteries have enough power to run the bungalow’s two fans and power the lights located above each bed for up to ten hours.  The main camp has a generator which supplies 11O-volt electricity for battery charging.  Camcorder batteries (etcetera) can be charged from the generator.
    Make sure to turn off the fans and lights before you go to dinner.  If the fans and lights are left on too long, your battery can and will die before you awaken the next morning.
    Make sure to fully close your tent at all times.  This ensures that no-see-ums and other unwelcome visitors do not end up as bed partners in the middle of the night.
If you smoke,-- please be careful not to burn holes in the unit.  Please do not throw your butts on the ground.
Fans -- Each bed has its own fan positioned for a cool night’s sleep.  To maximize ventilation, make sure your fan’s ventilation tube is unobstructed and solidly secured to the three Velcro tabs on the tent’s meshed window.  Keep your tent’s side flaps wide open to allow cool air to ventilate.  Nighttime temperatures can go as low as 75 F.  If it starts to rain, make sure to close your tent flaps.

BATHROOMS -- All units have their own separate bathroom facilities which consist of an enclosed shower,  sink and Porta Potti.  A few considerations are as follows:
Towels -- Each unit will have two fresh sets of bath, hand and face towels supplied daily.  Please do not use these towels as floor mats or for shoe/foot cleaning.
Soap -- Each unit has its own new bar of soap located in a plastic container hanging next to the shower/sink.
Toilet Paper -- can be found in a waterproof container next to the Porta-Potti.
Showers -- are filled by a battery run pump and heated by the sun (if the day is cloudy and cool, your shower will not be as hot as normal).  To turn on your shower, simply turn the valve.  The valve must be shut off after showering or all the water will run out and requires a charged battery to refill.  Many of our guests prefer to bathe in the river.  This is completely safe and a great way to cool off after a hot day fishing.  If you are hot at night, we suggest that you shower or swim just before bedtime.  The evaporation of water on your skin’s surface will rapidly cool you off.  The sink is virtually the same unit as the shower.  Again, shut off the valve immediately after use.  You will also find a small small thermos in the sink area. This bag contains potable water.  Do not drink the water from any other source in the unit, as this water is unfiltered river water.  The dining area always contains fresh potable water, lemonade, sodas and beer.
The Porta Potti is a bit formidable at first, but really quite simple to operate.  There is a small pump on the top left side of the unit which ‘flushes’ water into the bowl.  It should be pumped several times before and after the toilet’s use to facilitate flushing.  To flush the Porta Potti, find the release lever located half way down between the toilet’s lid and the ground.  Push down on the lever and then pull out (about six inches).  You’ll hear (or see) the toilet flush.  If it doesn’t flush, pump in more water until the contents of the bowl wash clean.  Close the lever until it locks and then pump in more water (three or four pumps are sufficient).
Laundry -- The camp has a daily laundry service.  All dirty clothes should be left in the tent’s laundry bag or on your bed before you go fishing.  The camp’s laundry personnel will pick up your clothes and wash them while you’re out on the river.  Clean clothes will be placed in the dining area just before dinner.  You will need to sort out your clean clothes each day.  If the day is excessively rainy, laundry will not come back until the following day, as all clothing is air dried.
 

Amazon Angel Yacht - Acute Angling is now using the "Amazon Angel" a 90-foot, air-conditioned "riverboat" style yacht for all of our fall yacht trips.  The watchword aboard is "comfort".  The "Angel" has six individually air-conditioned, double occupancy cabins with bunk style beds and closet space.  There is a spacious, comfortably furnished lounge, also separately air-conditioned with panoramic windows.  The air-conditioned dining room comfortably seats the entire group for meals.  The "Angel" has a spacious open air third deck for outdoor relaxing or stargazing.  All decks have railed walkways.  The fishing boats are towed behind the yacht while we travel and are accessed by a water level rear deck when anglers embark.  The rear deck also makes a perfect swim platform.  The "Angel" boasts a fully equipped kitchen and provides delicious home-cooked meals.  Laundry is done daily, so anglers need not over-pack (as you might guess, we don't require formal dress for dinner).  Smoking is permitted only in the open-air areas.
 

Personal Possessions -- Our rivers are almost completely devoid of human habitation.  Those few individuals that are occasionally found on the rivers (usually either 'caboclos'orIndians) are quite harmless and generally very friendly.  Thievery is virtually non-existent in our camps.   Our staff are honest, reliable people who respect all your belongings.  Valuables can be left in your bungalow or cabin without concern, though it is a good idea not to leave large amounts of loose money lying around.  If you ever suspect something is missing, please notify the camp’s host.

FOOD & BEVERAGES -- River Plate Anglers provides both high quality and ample meals throughout your stay.  A breakfast buffet is typically served at 6:00AM each morning.  Pancakes, eggs, toast, fresh fruit, bacon, cereal and fresh coffee are all standard fare.   Lunch is typically fixed (box-style) by each angler in the morning before fishing.  We encourage everyone to stay on the river the entire day to maximize fishing results.  Appetizers are usually on the table as soon as all anglers return from the day’s fishing.  Dinner is usually served on or before 7:00PM.  A mixture of Brazilian and ‘American’ foods dot the camp’s dinner menu.  Fresh fish, beef, and chicken are accompanied by an assortment of beans, rice, bread and mixed vegetables.  The camp supplies soft drinks, beer and wine with dinner.  There are no mixers available in camp.
 
 

HEALTH  -- Our groups often include anglers ranging in age from their early teens to their late eighties.  The camps, the staff and the structure of the operation are all designed to make life comfortable and easy for all of our anglers, from the fittest to the more sedentary.  All of the work of the camp is ably handled by our expert Brazilian staff.  You are free to fish, eat, relax and tell tall tales.  Happily, the most serious problems we see are the occasional cases of diarrhea and the various self-inflicted hook wounds.  It is however important that anglers understand that they are, in fact, deep in the Amazon jungle.  For this reason, certain basic considerations should be kept in mind.   All of our camps are located in extremely remote areas.
Acute health problems - Those who have known, serious, potentially acute, health problems should think twice about going to such a location with limited medical attention.  In case of emergency, we will have a float plane flown in as soon as possible, but this can take up to half a day (night flights are not possible).  All camps have 24-hour radio contact with Manaus.
Contagious diseases - The areas you'll be fishing are virtually unpopulated, therefore water-born contagious diseases are uncommon.  There are a few reports of light diarrhea, but you can eat and drink with confidence in camp.  Do not, however, drink the tap water in any hotel rooms or public areas!

INSECTS -- The dry season in Brazil is generally almost completely devoid of mosquitos and other biting insects.  A common daytime outfit is often nothing more than a bathing suit and lots and lots of sunblock.  The actual river channels and lagoons are generally too acidic to support mosquito reproduction during the dry season (which is when we fish all of our rivers).  Mosquito larvae require the softer, more neutral waters collected in bromeliads (a bowl shaped plant) or rainwater puddles to develop properly.  These conditions are almost exclusively associated with the rainy season.  Because the Amazon is such a vast and complex ecosystem, however, it is always possible for unexpected variations to occur.  Therefore, the following information is designed to enable you to be prepared for any possibility in the Amazon.
No-see-ums: Depending upon water levels and recent precipitation, some rivers in the Amazon can have significant populations of biting gnats. Certain individuals can have a strong reaction to the bites, with considerable itching and discomfort.  Many rivers can have no-see-ums, so play it safe by bringing at least one set of socks, long pants, long sleeves and a dependable brand of repellent (Muskol, Cutters or anything else with DEET).  Although Avon "Skin-So-Soft" works for some individuals, we do not recommend it as a reliable repellent.  Bring anti-itch (cortisone) cream just in case.
Mosquitoes can sometimes be present, even in the dry season, at night when you're outside your bungalow.  Repellent and/or long sleeves will discourage any problems. Malaria does exist, to a small degree, on some of the rivers we fish.  We strongly suggest that you consult with your doctor regarding inoculations recommended by the I.A.M.A.T. (International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers)   [716] 754-4883/417 Center Street, Lewiston, NY 14092 or call the U.S. Public Health Service in your area.  Prophylactic doses of Larium prevent malaria.
Wasps and bees are also found in healthy numbers throughout the Amazon.  If you are allergic to stinging insects, be certain to bring proper medication.  Please advise the camp manager (about your allergies) as soon as you arrive in camp.
 

A Further Note on Dehydration, Sun and Insects -- Almost all of the time, during the dry season, conditions on the rivers are absolutely glorious.  Anglers are very comfortable in the boats and camps.  However, there can be times when unusual conditions occur.  A little bit of preparation and foreknowledge can assure that anglers will not experience any discomfort .      During the day’s fishing, your body can lose a great deal of water.  Average daytime temperatures can range up to 95 F depending upon cloud cover.  Make sure to constantly re-hydrate yourself throughout the day and evening to avoid dehydration.  Water and Gator-Aid-type products are best.  Soft drinks and beer can actually exacerbate dehydration, so try to avoid excessive amounts of each during the day (you can enjoy to your heart's content in the evenings).  Your camp’s host can stock your boat’s cooler with your preference of drinks.  Please make sure to speak with him about your own personal needs.  Everyone needs to take the sun seriously.  Equatorial sun is much more intense than the watered-down exposure we receive in the states.  Amazon sun can burn even those who consider themselves unaffected by the sun.  Make sure to use sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and long sleeves/pants (those who are sun-sensitive should use Sun Gloves).      Amazonian no-see-ums can exist on all rivers except the Araca.  They are rarely found in sunny conditions, but it is possible for them to turn up suddenly, under overcast conditions, on a river that has previously been free of them for weeks.    To avoid discomfort from no-see-ums, if they are around, be prepared to cover up with long sleeve shirts and pants  and use plenty of repellent (use D.E.E.T and avoid anything less-strong).  These pesky creatures are unlike most other biting insects in that their bite often does not itch or react until several days after they bite you.     Mosquitos and malaria can be a concern in some of the local villages.  Though none of our clients have ever contracted the disease in our camps, make sure  to use repellent and keep covered up while in transit to and from camp.  An antimalarial prophylactic (such as Larium) is recommended.  Some camps are plagued by small black or blonde bees that are often mistaken for flies.  Though quite obnoxious, these little bees do not sting and do not pose any health threat whatsoever.

AMAZON OVERVIEW -- The Amazon basin has thousands of tributaries with a drainage area of almost 3,000,000 square miles (this incorporates Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Suriname, Guyana, Brazil, and Venezuela), which is nearly twice as large as the area drained of the other great rivers worldwide.  At its discharge point in the Atlantic, the river's overall volume is estimated at over seven times that of the Mississippi!  The Amazon basin is an exceedingly diverse combination of specific niches within one giant ecosystem.  Wildlife, insects, birds, fish and vegetation varies greatly depending upon soil type and proximity to fluctuating water levels. The Amazon's overall watershed encompasses 1/5 of all the world's fresh water.  There are an estimated 1000 separate species of fish in the Amazon basin.  Depending on the area, there are as many as 15 different species that will take a fly or lure.  Most of the Amazon's wildlife is shy and elusive. Although quite common, tapir, capybara, paca, picure, jaguar, peccary and ocelot are all nocturnal. This is not to say that you won't sometimes catch glimpses of them (usually swimming across the river), but generally the jungle is so thick, that it is hard to get a good look at them.  Monkeys are quite common, but they quickly scamper back into the canopy, so you usually only see them momentarily.  The bird life is much more cooperative.  Macaws, parrots, parakeets, toucans, weaver birds, eagles, osprey, kingfishers, herons, soldier storks, and a host of migratory species are a common sight throughout the fishing day.  For more informations see FAQ's.

LANGUAGE -- Brazil is the only Latin American country where Portuguese is spoken as the native language.  Grammatically, Portuguese is quite similar to Spanish, but the spoken language/word pronunciation is very distinct.  Most individuals fluent in Spanish can converse with a Brazilian native.  All camps have a full-time bilingual camp host.

CURRENCY -- Most Latin American currencies fluctuate like the weather, so it's pointless to list even approximate exchange rates.  Even the names of currencies are changing in some countries (Brazil's currency went from the Cruziero to the Real).  Brazilian hotels and shops readily accept U.S. dollars, so there's really no need to exchange money.  If you do wish to exchange money, we recommend you do so in the U.S. -- you'll get a much better exchange rate.  If you exchange money out of the country, make sure you are getting back the country's equivalent/exchange in their currency.  A popular scam involves an incorrect currency exchange.  Hotels are notorious for having a horrible exchange rate.  Should you need to exchange dollars, use the nearest federally operated exchange house.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES - - Import allowances in each country restrict import of excess amounts of liquor and tobacco, so keep them to a minimum (one carton of cigarettes or 25 cigars, and 2 liters of alcoholic beverages maximum).  Beer and soft drinks are included in the weekly rate in all camps.

GUIDES -- The guides in all our operations are hard working individuals who aim to please. Anglers are usually impressed by the lengths to which they will go to help fishermen enjoy their trip.  Don't be surprised to see your guide slip into the water to untangle a fish hung up in structure.  They do not speak English very well, but will be able to help you select the right lures/flies and also show you how to fish each species in the correct manner.  Guides are expected to fish approximately 8 hours per day.

GRATUITIES -- Gratuities are discretionary and are not included at the hotel or the lodge.  The customary tip in restaurants is 10%, but most of the time this is automatically added to your bill (watch that you do not over- tip).  Tipping in the camps is a delicate issue and should be done with discretion.  Our outfitters suggest a $100.00 tip (per person) to the guide per week and a weekly tip of  $100.00 to the camp staff (to be given in a lump sum to the camp’s manager at the end of the week).  Please do not bring traveler's checks for tipping purposes.  Remember that the guide's tip is based upon performance and is by no means obligatory -- knowledge, enthusiasm and commitment, should be rewarded accordingly (at the same time, apathy and laziness should be reflected by a low tip).  Aside from a monetary reward, the guides and staff are very enthusiastic about all sorts of American products.  Fishing tackle, baseball caps, pliers, t-shirts, socks, tennis shoes, cheap watches, cigarettes, candy, and other similar items are greatly appreciated.

WEATHER -- Tropical temperatures prevail in the Amazon with mid-day temperature ranging as high as 85 -100 F.  Generally, there is little wind and an extremely intense sun throughout the day, so please be mindful of dehydration and overexposure to the sun.  At night, the temperature slowly drops to 70-75 F.  Although you will be fishing during the dry season, there are occasional rain showers (you’re in the middle of the world’s largest rain forest), so please bring along a lightweight, packable rain suit (pants included) to avoid a cold boat ride.

A WORD ABOUT LOCAL CULTURE -- Please remember that you are heading into the middle of the Amazon jungle where a slow pace of life and a "laid back" attitude is entrenched in the culture of the native people. Therefore, crisp timing, efficiency as we know it and effective planning are sometimes out of sync.  Don't let this get to you - relax and adjust to where you are.  The staff are timid at first, but if you meet them half way you'll find them to be warm and helpful.  Please be patient, none of them have been trained outside the confines of the jungle.
 

MORE ON PEACOCK BASS  -- Peacock Bass (Cichla sp.): 'Peacock bass' is a generalized name for the large bass-like gamefish native to an extensive tropical range in South America.  They are not a true bass such as the largemouth and smallmouth bass (Micopterus Sp.) found in North American waters, but are a subspecies of the family Cichlidae. Cichlids are a diverse family of tropical fishes found throughout Africa and South America.  All peacocks species are highly temperature-sensitive fish, but some species have been successfully introduced in tropical areas from Panama to Hawaii, with the latest transplants happily swimming in many of the major freshwater irrigation channels in Dade County, Florida.  Although there are countless color variations throughout their range, there are only four commonly recognized, separate species of peacock bass (there is a raging debate among ichthyologists and anglers on this topic).  All species are commonly called tucunaré in Brazil and Peru, while other Spanish speaking countries use the term pavón.  The peacock tucunaré (Cichla temensis), better known as 'speckled', ‘azul’ or ‘paca’ is the largest of the three species, with an average weight of about 6-pounds (10-18-pound fish are very common, and 20+pound ‘azules’ are usually taken each week). This fish has a unmistakable mottled black patch directly behind its eye.  Body coloration and markings vary greatly.  Three vertical black bars are usually visible (intensity varies from fish to fish) beginning just behind the pectoral fin and ending underneath the soft portion of the dorsal fin.  Often, horizontal white spots are present (running along the top third of the fish's body).  On rare occasions, there are neither black bars nor horizontal stripes, but the mottled patch directly behind the eye is a distinct characteristic. This species has not been successfully transplanted due to its greater temperature sensitivity.
    The butterfly tucunaré (Cichla ocellaris) is a smaller and very numerous species in the Amazon basin. This fish has several different color phases, but the most common has three black, oscellated spots (about the size of a half dollar depending on the size of the fish) running along its lateral line. Average ‘butterflies’ run about 3-pounds and top out at about 12-pounds.  A similar appearing fish, Red Bellied or Barred tucunaré (Cichla monoculus) exhibits three black oval-shaped markings along the back, with a distinct ink-blot pattern above the belly.  Some 'butterflies' and ‘red bellies’ have no distinct body markings at all, but the absence of the black eye-patch clearly distinguishes them from their larger cousins.
    The fourth and rarest species is the royal tucunaré/pavón (Cichla nigrolineatus).  This species is normally not encountered in Brazil, since it prefers fast water in a rocky habitat.  The royal’s distinguishing features include a narrow, serrated, horizontal black ‘band’ that runs from just behind the gill plate, past the soft part of the dorsal fin (this ‘band’ is often times broken up, but the fish's coloration is very distinctive from the 'butterfly.')
    Although peacock bass are the main attraction in the Amazon, there are  many other jungle species that are also impressive (regarding both physical beauty and fighting capabilities).  Depending upon location, matrinchã, pacú, pirapitinga, jacundá, traida, apapá, tambaqui, pirarucú, piraiba, bicuda, picua, piranha, aruanã, suribim, pirarara and pescada can be taken with regularity and should be enjoyed whenever available.

CATCH AND RELEASE -- To insure the best fishing possible, a strict catch and release policy is in effect in all camps.   Recent studies have shown a high mortality rate on peacock bass (mainly due to piranha predation.)  We strongly encourage all clients not to handle fish.  The guides are well trained in fish handling and care.  If you want to photograph, measure, or weigh the fish, have the guide hold the fish or use a device such as a BogaGrip which does not harm the fish.  Your understanding and cooperation will ensure that all our fisheries remain as productive as ever.  Throughout the week, the manager will ask you to bring back piranha, smaller peacocks or other fish for dinner.  Only at this time should any fish be kept.
 

PEACOCK HABITS AND ANGLING HINTS:  Peacock bass occupy a special niche in each river system.  For the novice, every inch of the Amazon and its tributaries looks like it should hold fish.  Ever-changing conditions such as water temperature/oxygen content, water level, current speed, water clarity, food availability and spawning cycles all play an important role in where peacocks will be at any given moment.  Most peacocks don't like moving water, preferring to remain in calm water if water conditions will permit.  As water levels come out of the vegetation, peacocks become concentrated in the back eddies and lagoons away from the main channel of the river during high to moderate water levels.
    Like largemouth bass, peacocks often prefer 'structure' of some sort.  Rocks, fallen logs, points and sand bars are hiding places for baitfish, so this is where the peacocks will usually be lurking.  (Trophy peacocks often hold in deep/open water, so it is wise to heed the guide’s recommendations on where to cast).
    If there are dolphins or other large predators in the area, peacocks will often hold extremely tight to structure.  Make sure to cover all water as thoroughly as possible.  Sometimes, the difference of two inches in your cast can be the difference between an immediate strike or complete disinterest. During spawning periods, peacocks vacate the 'structure' and nest on sandy bottoms in three to six feet of water.
    Peacocks usually roam about in small schools searching for baitfish, often bursting into a frothing feeding frenzy.  When this situation is encountered, get your lure or fly in front of feeding fish as quickly as possible. This may sound easy, but the peacocks tend to move fast as they tear through the baitfish. The sooner you can cast to them after they've been spotted feeding, the better your chance of a hookup.  Peacocks are greedy and highly competitive schooling fish.  Always cast a free lure or fly right next to any hooked fish (unless your partner is hooked up to a giant.  Then it's best to reel in and get out of the way).  Another peacock will almost always be close by (attracted by the commotion).  If no strikes result, fish the surrounding area thoroughly.
    During periods of hot, dry weather, high water temperatures combined with low oxygen levels force the peacocks out of the lagoons and into the main channel of the river.  Here, they will tend to locate themselves around rock piles, sand bars, points, and log jams, which offer both protection and hunting grounds. The mouths of these lagoons are often extremely productive.

   Techniques
    Novice peacock anglers often tend to set the hook too fast when fishing topwater lures or flies.  Often peacocks will just slap at the lure to stun it, then come back around and firmly grab it on the second pass.  It's hard to remember at first, but don't set the hook on the strike.  If you can't see the plug or fly after about three seconds, drop your rod tip and set the hook as hard as you can.  Big peacocks have very tough skin around their mouths and tend to grip the plug or fly firmly.  They will also hold on to a lure or fly for quite some time before spitting it out.
    If the fish doesn't take the lure on the first strike, keep it moving.  Peacocks will almost always lose interest in a lure or fly that just sits on the surface.  If you are patient, the fish will usually come up and hit the lure a second or third time.  Sometimes a peacock will just lose interest in your plug or fly.  If this is the case, quickly cast a different subsurface lure or fly in the immediate area.  This often elicits another strike.
    Never try and 'horse' a big peacock, and don't underestimate its power.  Even moderately-large peacock bass are powerful enough to break heavy line, pull screws out of plugs, straighten saltwater hooks, and mutilate snap rings.  If a big fish is headed for structure, apply side pressure to the rod  trying to 'steer' the fish in another direction.  If you crank your drag down too tight, they'll almost always snap the line, or pull off.  If a fish does make it into cover, don't give up.  Give a little slack and wait for the boat to spook the fish out of  its hiding place -- they'll usually untangle themselves.  If your line is tight when they bolt, a break off is usually inevitable.  When a fish comes to the boat, never assume it's ready to give up.  Always keep a high rod tip and a loose drag to absorb a last minute run.
    Like all bass fishing, lure and fly selection can be a complicated matter due to variable fishing conditions.  Water clarity, weather, brightness, and time of day will all dictate what type of lure or fly you should choose.  Some argue that lure size is essential.  Usually you will catch more fish with smaller lures or flies, although trophy peacocks tend to prefer larger baits.  Lure/fly color doesn't seem as important as lure shade.  If it's bright out, use a light-colored lure/fly.  Dark shades are more productive in low light conditions.  For more information see our Peacock Primer - Part II
 

  It is usually best to start out with a topwater lure. If the water is off color or there is a slight chop, a propeller-type topwater

Notice how large the big prop lures are.  Make certain that you buy the full size 'Woodchoppers' and 'Redfins'.

lure (like the 6-3/4" Big Game Wood Chopper) will attract the fish's attention.  If the water is completely calm (and/or clear), it may be wise to try a more subtle topwater lure like a 4-1/2", 3/4 oz. Heddon 'Zara Spook.'.  If the fish refuse to take topwater switch to a subsurface lure.  If the water is clear,  lures without a sound chamber (ie. Cotton Cordell's 7", 1oz. 'Red Fin') seem to be productive.  If  the water is off color, use a lure with a sound chamber  (Bill Lewis 3/4 oz. 'Mag-Trap) . In hot/bright light conditions a deep diving lure such as a Bill Lewis 'Rattle Trap' (3/4 oz. 'Mag-Trap) may be your best choice.
  Yellow/red or red/white 1/2oz. bucktails (tied on wide gap/4/0+ saltwater hooks) are your best bet if the fish are not feeding aggressively.  Try varying the retrieve until you start getting strikes.  Most commercially-tied bucktails are not suited for peacock fishing.  Custom-tied jigs are available from Acute Angling's Tackle Box.

EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS  -- Fishing tackle prices can range from the sublime to the ridiculous.  Although for the most part you tend to get what you pay for, it isn't always necessary to pay for the absolute best.  Sometimes, 'pretty-good' will suffice.  With that in mind, please consider our tackle recommendations and checklists with an eye toward your own budget.  A Bogagrip costs over $100 dollars.  You don't have to buy one.  Your guide can handle your fish for you and you can wear a glove for photos if the device will adversely affect your budget.  Similarly, a perfectly good rod and reel combo can be bought for $150, a great one for $300 and the latest and greatest high tech rig for $1000.  They will all catch peacock bass.  Your own skill and experience is the single biggest component of the effectiveness of any one brand over another.  In short, don't spend more on tackle than you are comfortable with.  By the same token, many anglers love trips like this just because they provide a good excuse to buy new toys!
    Whatever you bring or buy for your trip, some components shouldn't be scrimped on.  Good quality line is important.  Get a good selection of the recommended lures and upgrade the hooks and split rings.  Whatever reel(s) you bring, make sure that the drags are smooth and effective.
    The tackle mentioned below is what we consider to be the optimum type for the conditions experienced.  If you already have something similar, use it.  Keep in mind that common tackle used on largemouth bass is generally simply too light for most jungle angling conditions (this includes lines, light rods and reels, and plugs/flies and especially hooks). Our recommendations are a concise combination of opinions and experience from clients and professionals who have spent a great deal of time fishing throughout the Amazon.  Special tackle suggestions should be taken into consideration to ensure a hassle-free trip (remember, the nearest tackle store is about 3,000 miles away from camp).
Casting & Spinning Rods/Reels:  We highly recommend bringing three or four-piece packable spin, casting, and fly rods that you can carry on the plane.  The cumbersome one-piece models often get lost or broken in transport no matter how well they are packed.  Baitcasting and spinning rods used in Brazil should be long-handled/medium-heavy action models designed with plenty of backbone for hook setting/pressuring big fish (recommended for 1-3 ounce lures).  Baitcasting reels should have a high-speed retrieve ratio, as lures are normally worked at an extremely fast rate.  Bring at least two rods and reels, because you might break a rod or strip the gears in one of your reels.
    The precise, direct presentation of the level-wind casting reel when used by a skillful angler is generally more useful than the higher, arching lob of a spinning reel in tight structure.  Because of this, many anglers prefer to use casting rods instead of spinning models.    However, the typically faster retrieve and the ease of slinging very heavy lures helps reduce fatigue with the spinning reel, giving an advantage to the spinning tackle.  Take your pick.  It's usually best to use the type of gear that you are most familiar and skillful with.  Here are a few examples of some popular tackle combinations:
Heavy Combos - Recommended for casting large, heavy lures, such as Woodchoppers, big Rapalas and Amazon Rippers.  Baitcasting: G. Loomis, GL3, three piece LR-844-3C, heavy casting rod + Abu Garcia's 5600 C4- Fast Retrieve (6.3:1)  level wind reel.  Spinning:  G. Loomis, GL3,  three piece LR-844-3S, heavy spinning rod + Daiwa SS1600 spinning reel.
Medium Combos - Recommended for medium and light lures, such as Zara Spooks, spoons and jigs.  Baitcasting: G. Loomis, GL3, three piece PR-844-3C medium casting + Shimano's Calcutta 250 -  level wind casting reel.  Spinning:  G. Loomis, GL3,  three piece PR-842-3S, medium/light spinning rod + Shimano Stradic 2000 spinning reel.
Remember a balanced rig is important and the heavier you go, the harder you work casting, the lighter you go, the more advantage to the fish.
Lines (Spin/Casting): Twenty five to thirty-pound monofilament has proven very reliable under stressful situations.  All monofilament stretches to some degree, which makes topwater angling a little more tedious but mono has the advantage of making weak spots easy to detect.  Braided lines are great for fishing big heavy topwater baits, because of their smaller diameter.  Frays and weak spots are, however, more difficult to detect (break-offs can occur because of this).  Hook pulls, straightened hooks and pulled snap rings are more common with braided lines, because they don’t stretch.  Your safest bet is to go with what you are used to, but braided lines are a lot less effort to fish with, and can be very satisfactory if you are experienced with them.  Whatever you use, be sure to constantly inspect your line and retie knots often.
Recommended Monofilament:  30LB. Berkley 'Tri-Max' or Berkley 'Big Game'.  25 or 30LB. Ande Tournament
Recommended Braided Line:  30LB. 20LB. and 14LB. Berkley FireLine (Black Color).
All of these products and many others are available directly from AcuteAngling's Tackle Box.
 

FLY FISHING: Fly fishing for peacocks is extremely productive, but can be tiring if you're not used to blind casting (and then rapidly stripping) a heavy-weight fly rod all day long.  If you don't think you have this type of endurance, we strongly recommend that you bring casting or spinning tackle to give yourself a break.
    Patterns -- Extra-large streamers fished on a sink tip line seem to be most productive (not only in terms of overall numbers of peacocks, but for larger-sized fish as well).  Popular streamers include 6-inch (5/0) by-colored, heavily-dressed bucktails in red/yellow, olive/white and red/white.  Big Deceivers, Bunnies, Saltwater Zonkers, Clousser Minnows and other flashy baitfish imitations all take fish.  All patterns should have generous amounts of matching Flashabou or Crystal Flash.  Big saltwater poppers are exciting to fish, but can be extremely exhausting to cast and retrieve for a prolonged period.  For some reason, fish over 10-pounds are difficult to coax to the surface with fly rod poppers.  Only extremely-large (6-inches or larger) sliders and poppers will bring up trophy fish.  Gaines saltwater poppers in red/yellow and pearl/olive hold up well and are hard to beat in terms of their 'action' in the water.  'Sliders' are productive in clear water situations.  Popovic's 'Siliclone Mullet' in olive and white is hard to beat.  Fly shade seems more important than color depending upon light conditions.  For this reason have an adequate selection of light and dark patterns.  We recommend that you bring at least two dozen streamers (half light and half dark) and eight or ten poppers.  Hooks should be razor sharp -- dull hooks significantly reduce hookup rate.  Flies can be obtained from Acute Angling's Tackle Box
    Fly rods should be fast action models, because they load sinking lines more efficiently and generally have more 'backbone' than softer models.  Bring at least two fly rods, because they often break under the 'jungle stress.'  Reels don't need to hold a lot of backing because peacocks don't make long runs, but a smooth strong drag is essential.  Recommended 'heavy' fly rod & reel combinations:  A stiff/fast action, 9-foot, eight, nine or ten- weight rod (Sage 990-3RPLX or G. Loomis FR1088-4) with Scientific Anglers 'System 2 -89' or G. Loomis reel.  Recommended 'medium' fly rod & reel combination (for smaller fish):  A stiff/fast action, 9-foot, seven- weight rod (Sage 790-3RPLX) + Scientific Anglers 'System 2 -78' reel.
    Sink tip lines are much more effective than floating lines.  Don’t bring just any old sink tip line (anything less that 300 grains is ineffective)!  A  Teeny '300 T-Series/Sink Tip' or a Rio 24-foot 300-grain Density Compensated line (these lines can be fished on anything from an 8 to 10 weight rod) are our top choices.  Also bring a floating line for poppers and sliders.  A line with a drastic weight-forward taper (like Scientific Anglers' 'Mastery Saltwater Tarpon') matched to your rod weight will handle the wind-resistant poppers most effectively.  A Small Cotton Minnow Seine is recommended to keep your fly line from tangling in the boat's seats, floorboards, rods etcetera.
    Leaders: Peacocks are not the least bit leader shy.  Most fly anglers use a straight shot (approximately six feet) of 40-50-pound monofilament leader material.  Anything lighter will be snapped off like sewing thread when that fifteen 'pounder' runs you into a tree or rock pile.  You will go through a lot of leader material, because of the peacock's extremely abrasive teeth.  We recommend buying a ½-pound spool of Ande 'Tournament' monofilament.  If you're trying for a IGFA record, you'll have to follow their leader specifications.

Sun and Insect Protection
 

		Sunscreen - bring lots of it, waterproof and with an adequate SPF!!!
		Sun-Gloves -- Many people burn their hands, so we recommend ‘Mangrove’ UV Protector SunGloves.
		Insect Repellent -- One that is perspiration resistant with D.E.E.T
		Small can of Raid to kill any insects that might sneak into your cabin

 Medicines
 

		Personal Prescription Drugs - You cannot obtain these medications here
		10 days worth of broad spectrum antibiotics (i.e., Cipro) (Quickly corrects diarrhea and is a good idea in case of other infection.
		Anti-Malarial (i.e., Larium) - with your doctor's prescription
		Allergy or cold pills
		Cortisone or anti-itch cream (for rashes, allergies or no-see-ums)
		Immodium, Pepto-Bismol or other anti-diarrheal
		Benadryl
		Band-Aids
		Anti-bacterial creme
		Aspirin, Tylenol etc.

Personal Items

Luggage

Fishing Tackle

Lures - This is a general purpose listing and is designed to provide a wide enough selection to cover a variety of rivers, water types and conditions (See lure selection chart).  If you know which river you will be fishing, you can more efficently focus on the type size and color lure known to be effective on that fishery.  Acute Angling provides specially designed packages for specific rivers.  These are available at competitive prices directly through our Tackle Box.

		Propeller type (10) - Big Game Woodchoppers, Amazon Rippers, Peacock Special, in various colors & patterns.
		Walking Sticks (6) - Zara Spook, Jumpin' Minnow (upgrade hooks and split rings) in various colors & patterns
		Minnow/Jerkbaits (8) - Rat-L-Traps, Redfins, Long - A, Rapalas, in a variety of sizes (hooks and split rings must be upgraded for all smaller size lures), colors and patterns
		Crank baits (4) - Rat-L-Traps, Mag-traps, in a variety of sizes (hooks and split rings must be upgraded for all smaller size lures), colors and patterns.
		Bucktail Jigs - (6) - Wide gap hooks, Garrett's Red Baron, Red/Yellow, Red/White and other colors and patterns. .
		Spoons - (8) Johnsons Silver Minnow or others, in a variety of sizes, colors and patterns.
		Miscellaneous - Any lures that you have confidence in or use successfully or that you might want to try.  All lures should have strong, sharp hooks and split rings.  Soft baits don’t last long.  Bigger baits tend to catch bigger fish.

Outfitters do not sell lures, flies or any other tackle, so purchase early, locally to get the best selection, or order directly from Acute Angling .  We are pleased to offer complete tackle packages specifically designed for each of the rivers we fish.  Our packages focus on the colors, sizes and varieties proven to be most effective in each particular fishery and are specific for your tackle preferences (ie. Spin, Baitcast, Fly).  We can provide as complete a package as you need, rods, reels, lures, lines and accessories; or just order a terminal tackle package.  These packages are designed to save you time, money and frustration by providing everything you need for your trip in one place, at a fair price.  Complete packages are in stock and available for shipment well in advance of your departure.  Click here to e-mail your trip information and ordering instructions, or call us, Toll-free, to talk about your specific tackle needs;

* indicates that factory hooks should be replaced with Mustad 4X strong #1/0 or #2/0 trebles.

Qty.	Classification	Company	Model	Size	Color
10	Propeller Type  (topwater)	Luhr-Jensen	'Big Game Woodchopper' or 'Amazon Ripper'	6-3/4", 2 oz.  Note large size	Perch, Silver, Bl./Or, Red/Wh, Peacock, Clown, Fire Tiger
		Luhr-Jensen	'Peacock Bass Special	4-3/4", 3/4 oz.	Same as above
6	Walking  Sticks  (topwater)	*Rebel	'Jumpin' Minnow'	4½". - 5/8 oz.	Chrome/black, Copper/blk./or.
		*Heddon	'Super Spook'	5",  7/8 oz.	Florida Bass, Shad
		*Heddon	'Zara Spook'	4½",  3/4 oz.	Bullfrog, Flo./Gr. Craw
8	Minnow/Jerk Baits  (subsurface)	Cotton  Cordell	'Redfin'  C-10	7"  1 oz.	Gold/Orange  Silver/Black
		Bomber	'Long A	6" hvy. dty.	Silver Flash
		Rapala	'Jointed  Minnow'	1 oz.	Silver
		Rapala	Mag 14 Floater	5" 3/4 oz.	Gold/Flo. Orange
4	Crank Baits  (deep diving)	*Bill Lewis	'Mag. Rattle Trap'	3/4 oz.	Silver/black  Chart. Shiner
6	Bucktail Jigs	Acute Angling	Garrett's Red Baron	½ oz.,wide gap	Red/Yellow, Red/White, Olive
8	Spoons	Johnson	'Silver Minnow'	1-1/8 oz.	Silver

NON-EMERGENCY and EMERGENCY PHONE CONTACTS -- Our camps all have 24-hour short-wave radio contact with Manaus, but phone patches to the U.S. are extremely expensive and often impossible to make consistently.  For this reason, the camp operator will only attempt a phone patch in emergency situations.  For non-emergency or emergency calls, the following numbers can be used:

River Plate Anglers’ Main Office:	011-5982-64-4305/06 (Fax 011-5982-61-9993)
River Plate Anglers’ Transfer Agent	Brahma,’ in Manaus, Brazil (he speaks perfect English)  011-55-92-622-4289/642-6548/011-55-92-642-6548 mobile
Lloyd Aero Boliviano:	(800) 327-3098/(305)476-7905 attn:Maria Estel Guzman
Tropical Hotel, Manaus:	011-55-92-658-5000/5026 fax
U.S. Numbers:      Paul Reiss	Tel. (866) 832-2987     FAX (908)832-2989
Garry Reiss	Tel. (866) 431-1668