The 2025 season at Pirarucú Lodge was defined by constant changes in water levels, natural challenges, moments of pure intensity, and encounters with some of the largest freshwater fish on the planet. Anglers from around the world experienced the power of the arapaima, the remarkable presence of tambaqui, and the restless energy of arowanas. Each period brought something unique — from historically high water to bursts of explosive activity.
As the weeks progressed, the landscape transformed, and with it, the behavior of the fish. At times, low water concentrated giants in deep lagoons; at others, rising water pushed arapaimas into the flooded forest, demanding sharp observation and constant adaptation from guides and anglers alike. Yet with every shift, new opportunities emerged.
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THE BIG NUMBERS OF THE SEASON
Across all reports produced, the totals reached:
Total Arapaimas landed in 2025 (Weeks 1–15):
232
Total Tambaquis landed:
130
Total Arowanas landed:
316
MOMENTS THAT DEFINED 2025
Early Season
Strength in rising waters and the first signs of giants
The opening phase of the season began with high water and technical conditions. Even so, early efforts delivered meaningful rewards, including multiple arapaimas over two meters. As the water began to recede, fishing improved quickly, revealing the first glimpse of the season’s potential.
This period was defined by strong momentum: diverse groups of anglers connected with a wide range of species, from arapaima to increasingly active tambaqui and arowanas. Exceptional fish appeared early — including a powerful arapaima estimated at 200 pounds, caught during an unforgettable combo trip that also produced a trophy peacock bass.
Temperatures ranged from 31°C to 34°C (88°F–93°F), with bright and calm mornings followed by consistent light rain in the late afternoons. These shifts brought cooler air and subtle changes in fish activity.
Mid Season
Explosive action, record-class fish, and peak performance
As waters stabilized and clarity improved, the fishery entered its most productive and intense stage. Arapaimas showed extraordinary consistency, resulting in some of the highest numbers and largest fish of the entire year.
This phase delivered true giants — including fish measuring 225 cm, 230 cm, and 232 cm, each representing the raw power of Mamirauá’s waters. Arowanas and tambaquis contributed to the action, keeping anglers engaged between encounters with massive arapaima. Strong camaraderie, returning guests, and unforgettable moments marked this period.
Late Season
Rising waters, vivid colors, and the most emotional moments of the year
As rains returned and water levels began rising again, the fishery shifted once more. Arapaimas moved unpredictably into newly flooded edges, requiring precise reading of water movement and structure. Fishing became more challenging, but also more rewarding for those who adapted to the rhythm of the river.
Arowanas surged in activity during calm mornings. Tambaquis spread deeper into the forest, becoming more elusive. Yet the defining feature of this period was visual: the beginning of the reproductive cycle, when male arapaimas display a deep, vivid red — one of the rarest and most striking natural displays in the Amazon.
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A SEASON SHAPED BY CHANGE, STRENGTH AND BEAUTY
From rising water to steep drops, from explosive giants to quiet moments of reading structure, 2025 once again proved why Pirarucú Lodge is considered the definitive destination for arapaima fishing.
Each week brought its own story, challenges, and rewards — and the numbers speak for themselves: 232 arapaimas, hundreds of tambaquis and arowanas, and memories that will stay with our guests forever.
If you want to experience the power of the arapaima in the world’s largest protected reserve for the species, now is the time.
Secure your week at Pirarucú Lodge and come discover the stories the river has yet to tell.
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