Fishing in the Pantanal: a complete guide to make the most of it

Fishing in the Pantanal is an experience you need to live if you love freshwater fishing. That's exactly what we're going to talk about today in this post, a true guide for those who want to take a trip to fish in the lands of Mato Grosso.

The Pantanal is a very popular region among fishermen from all over Brazil, and not without reason: there you will find more than 250 different species of fish for fishing. Moreover, if you want to go there, get ready to take many photos because the region is full of incredible landscapes. It's a chance to live an unforgettable experience.

So, fisherman, prepare your fishing rod and hook because we are going to unveil the best places to fish in the Pantanal, answer your questions about what to bring, and prepare you to live this adventure. Shall we go?

Fishing in the Pantanal: what can you find?

As we mentioned earlier, the Pantanal is a true paradise for fishing enthusiasts and those who love contact with nature. It's the perfect chance to leave the big city routine behind and enjoy the tranquility of the region, with incredible landscapes and perfect flora and fauna. Get ready to relax, enjoy good times alone or with your friends!

Imagine while you are on your fishing trip (or on your way there) and encountering animals like rheas, anteaters, and the Tuiuiú? Yes, that's possible. It's pure adventure. The region is crossed by the Paraguay River and its tributaries, which are home to more than 250 species of fish such as Dourado, Jaú, Pacú, Barbado, Bagre and many others.

Depending on your availability, there are several inns, hotels, and boat hotels for moments when you are not fishing. If you are bringing your family, it is important to choose accommodations with activities for all ages, such as boat or horseback riding, swimming pools, and areas for contact with nature.

Well, but let's talk now about what to expect from fishing in the Pantanal and how you can plan for it. Shall we go?

Plan to fish from March to October

The best months to fish in the Pantanal are March and April, because that's when the rivers are at their fullest, reaching their highest level, besides being a time when few tourists visit the region. Oh, it's also a good period due to the climate, which is more favorable and rain is rare during this time.

Another good period for fishing in the Pantanal is between June and July, when the Paraguay River is lower, making bottom fishing easier. So it's a good time to catch Jaú, Caxará (Surubim), and Jaú.

It's important to know that fishing is only allowed in the Pantanal between March and October, so outside of this period, fishing is considered illegal.

What is the best place to fish in the Pantanal?

The most well-known and sought-after places for fishing in the Pantanal are the cities of Poconé and Cáceres, in Mato Grosso. The Piquiri, São Lourenço, Paraguay, and Cuiabá rivers pass through them.

Other popular cities are Corumbá and Porto Murtinho, which provide access to the Aquidauana, Miranda, and Paraguay rivers.

If you want to fish in Mato Grosso (MT) you should go to the cities:

• Cáceres, which provides access to the Jauru, Paraguay, and Sepotuba rivers;
• Poconé, with access to the Cuiabá, Bento Gomes, Claro, Cassange, and Pixaim rivers.
• Barão de Melgaço, with access to the Cuiabá river and Ribeirão Mutum, with several fishing lodges.

In these places you will find several fishing options: well-structured lodges, which will provide all the necessary support, comfort, and safety for your adventure. You can also choose boat-hotel options, with swimming pools and cozy environments, with showers, heaters, and more amenities.

Reading tip: how to choose a good survival knife?

Pantanal Fish: which are the most famous?

The waters of the Mato Grosso Pantanal have an enormous diversity of species. Did you know that this region has more fish than all the rivers in Europe combined? Yes, so get ready because the Pantanal region will surprise you. See some fish you will find there:

• Pintado;
• Dourado;
• Cachara;
• Jaú;
• Piranha;
• Piraputanga;
• Barbado;
• Pacú;
• Jurupoca;
• Piauçu;
• and more.

What to bring for fishing in the Pantanal

At fishing lodges, you will find several places where you can rent fishing equipment. As we saw in the previous list, you need equipment and accessories that can handle these larger and heavier fish. In general, you can bring:

• Forceps and long-nosed pliers to remove hooks;
• Pocket knives and Fishing Knives;
• Fishing rods with lengths ranging from 1.8m to 2.10m, with medium and medium-heavy action;
• Reels or baitcasters loaded with lines, at least 100 meters of 0.35 to 0.60mm;
• Sinkers with different weights, ranging from 30 to 60g;
• Swivels with resistance varying around 12kg, nº 3 or 4;
• Snaps proportional to the swivels;
• Hooks of different sizes;
• Artificial lures;
• Steel leaders for use with lures;
• First aid kit;
• Daily use medications.

For clothing, choose long-sleeved items, as well as caps, hats, or visors with wider brims. Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential to protect you from the strong sun in the region.

Also, pack waterproof jackets for rainy seasons and, for footwear, prefer trekking-style shoes, suitable for outdoor adventures.

Finally, don't forget a camera or smartphone to record the best moments of your trip and also quick snacks.

We have a post with a step-by-step guide on what to bring for fishing that will help complement your list, be sure to read it.

Necessary authorizations for fishing in the Pantanal

To be able to fish in the Pantanal, you need two licenses: the Environmental Authorization for Recreational Fishing from the Mato Grosso do Sul Environmental Institute (Imasul) and the amateur fisherman registration from the Ministry of Agriculture, required throughout Brazil.

Health precautions before the trip

Don't forget that the Pantanal is a region with a high incidence of yellow fever, it is important that you, friends, and family get vaccinated against the disease. Remember that this vaccine only takes effect after 10 days, so plan to get it before traveling.

Now that you have this guide in hand, it's time to plan this trip. We are sure that any fisherman, whether professional or amateur, will enjoy this adventure that will challenge their limits and skills and provide good stories.

Being a region of intense wilderness, excitement will not be lacking during your days there, which is why it is an experience every fisherman needs to live at least once.

And you, have you ever been on a trip to the Pantanal? Tell us your stories in the comments! Keep following our blog for good tips and recommendations from those who love fishing, knives, and pocket knives. See you in the next post!