Itapara Lodge - Brazil
Two lodges, 40 Miles Apart. Itapará's main lodge is situated approximately 250 miles north of Manaus on the Itapará River, a tributary of the Rio Blanco, which is a large tributary of the Rio Negro. The Itapará is renowned as a sanctuary for some of the largest peacock bass in the world - up to 25-pounds in size.
fishing itapara Lodge
Itapará has two lodges which are 40 river miles apart. The Lodges allow guests to fish about 75 miles of river without runs of over 45 minutes. A five-day package offers one or two days at the lower lodge, and the 10-day package offers two to four days at the lower lodge.
You’ll primarily be fishing the Itapará River and some of its lagoons. These lagoons are formed from the river dropping during the dry season. There are five or more lakes with boats that can be reached by short hikes from the river. The river itself can be great fishing, especially during lower water.
At Itapará, you may use lures or flies for peacock bass. Over the years, we’ve hosted many trips to Itapará Lodge – it was one of Larry’s favorites.
Fishing season: Itapará's fishing season opens in early October, after the rainy season, when the waters recede into the riverbed. At this time, the peacock bass roam in shoals and attack everything in sight. The Lodge season extends into early April. Peak fishing is between December 25th and March 15th. Keep in mind, the productiveness of your peacock bass adventure is largely dictated by the water levels. Occasionally, the rainy season fails to abide by schedules and may add mid-season downpours.
Getting to the lodge
After you pass through customs in Manaus, you’ll be met by a lodge representative. You will then be transported to your hotel for an overnight stay, which is not included in the package. You'll take an 80-minute charter flight to Itapará Lodge, which is included in the package. For the charter, there is a baggage restriction of 45-pounds. About 9:00 a.m., you’ll land at the Lodge's 1100' paved runway. You'll enjoy a late breakfast, and settle in. Then after lunch, you’ll head out for a half day of fishing.