There's a reason serious anglers whisper about Guyana. While Brazil's Pantanal gets the headlines and Amazon lodges fill Instagram feeds, Guyana's rivers remain virtually untouched — home to fish populations that have been protected by the sheer difficulty of getting there. The current world record arapaima (415 pounds, 13 feet) was caught here in 2015, and local guides will tell you there are bigger ones still swimming.
This isn't a guide written from a tour operator's brochure. It's built from conversations with Makushi fishermen who've worked these waters their entire lives, from pilots who've flown anglers into remote camps for decades, and from the conservation biologists studying these incredible fish. Here's what you actually need to know.
The Target Species: Guyana's Big Four
Guyana offers diverse fishing, but four species draw anglers from around the world. Each requires different tactics, different water, and different expectations.
Arapaima (Arapaima gigas) Legendary
The arapaima is why most serious anglers come to Guyana. This air-breathing prehistoric giant — unchanged for 23 million years — grows over 10 feet long and can exceed 400 pounds. When hooked, they explode from the water in spectacular leaps, testing tackle to its limits.
Typical Size: 80-200 lbs (fish over 300 lbs are rare but present)
Best Locations: Rewa River, isolated oxbow lakes in Rupununi
Regulations: Strictly catch-and-release — protected by law
Rewa River system, upper Essequibo basin
What Locals Know About Arapaima
Arapaima must surface to breathe every 10-20 minutes. Experienced guides listen for the distinctive "gulp" sound and watch for the subtle boil on the surface. The best fishing happens when you position yourself near where fish are actively surfacing — not by casting blindly. Water temperature matters too: arapaima are most active in cooler morning and evening hours.
Peacock Bass / Lukanani (Cichla ocellaris) Most Popular
Called "lukanani" by locals, peacock bass are the bread-and-butter of Guyana fishing. Aggressive, acrobatic fighters with stunning coloration, they attack topwater lures with explosive strikes. Two species inhabit Guyana's waters, with the larger "yellows" reaching 17 pounds.
Best Locations: Essequibo River, Rupununi system, lagoons
Best Lures: Walk-the-dog topwater, small poppers, prop baits, jigs
Regulations: No specific limits, but practice conservation
Throughout Essequibo and Rupununi drainages
Payara / Vampire Fish (Hydrolycus scomberoides) Adventure Target
The payara's 6-inch fangs make it look like something from a nightmare — and fighting one feels like it too. These silver predators inhabit fast, turbulent water below rapids and falls, making powerful runs and spectacular leaps when hooked. Their bony mouths are notoriously hard to hook.
Best Locations: Rewa River rapids, Corona Falls, fast water throughout Essequibo
Tackle: Heavy spinning gear or 10-12wt fly rods with fast-sinking lines
Peak Season: Low water (Oct-Nov, Feb-Apr) when they concentrate below falls
Rapids and falls throughout the interior
What Locals Know About Payara
Unlike most fish, payara prefer fast, turbulent water — the rougher the better. Local guides know the specific pools below each rapid where payara stack up. The trick is getting your lure deep into the churning water. Set the hook multiple times and hard — their bony mouths require repeated hooksets. Low-light conditions (overcast days, dawn, dusk) produce the best action.
Piranha (Multiple species) Fun Activity
Piranha fishing is less about sport and more about experience — these ferocious little predators attack bait with incredible aggression. The giant black piranha (red-eye piranha) can exceed 10 pounds and put up a surprisingly good fight. Plus, you can eat them.
Best Locations: Any river, especially deeper pools and backwaters
Bait: Fresh cut fish (they smell blood) — keep bait fresh!
Regulations: Can be kept and eaten
Common throughout all Guyana waterways
Eating Your Catch
Piranha are delicious grilled over an open fire with local spices — it's a traditional jungle experience. The flesh is firm and tasty, though watch out for the many small bones. Your guides will prepare them riverside. Arapaima and most other species are strictly catch-and-release.
The Rivers: Where to Fish
Guyana's rivers connect to the Amazon basin during high water, explaining the incredible biodiversity. Over 400 fish species have been documented. Each river system offers different experiences.
Rewa River — The Arapaima Capital
The Rewa River is ground zero for arapaima fishing. This blackwater tributary of the Rupununi winds through pristine rainforest, its tea-colored waters hiding the world's largest freshwater fish. The Rewa Eco-Lodge community has turned conservation into their economy — protecting arapaima has brought them more income than commercial fishing ever did.
- Target Species: Arapaima, payara, peacock bass, black piranha, wolf fish
- Access: 4-5 hour drive to Annai, then 3-4 hour boat trip
- Season: September-April (dry season)
- Character: Remote, pristine blackwater, minimal fishing pressure
Essequibo River — South America's Third Largest
The Essequibo originates in the Acarai Mountains and flows over 600 miles to the Atlantic. The upper reaches, particularly around Jaguar Camp between King William Falls and Apoteri village, offer incredible multi-species fishing in water that has seen few anglers.
- Target Species: Peacock bass, payara, pacu, arawana, bicuda, catfish
- Access: Charter flights to interior airstrips, then boat
- Season: Year-round, best September-April
- Character: Huge river system, diverse habitats from rapids to lagoons
Rupununi River System — The Biodiversity Hub
The Rupununi is where the Amazon and Essequibo drainage systems connect during rainy season, creating extraordinary species diversity. This is savannah country with easier access than the deep interior — and reliable fishing for multiple species.
- Target Species: Peacock bass, piranha, arapaima (in connected lakes), catfish, pacu
- Access: Road from Georgetown or flights to Lethem/Annai
- Season: Two dry periods: February-March and October-November
- Character: Savannah rivers, easier access, multiple lodge options
What Locals Know About River Selection
Water color tells you a lot. Blackwater rivers (Rewa) are acidic and tea-colored — arapaima love them, and visibility is surprisingly good underwater. Whitewater/clearwater sections (parts of Essequibo) hold different species. Locals know that fish behavior changes dramatically with water levels — what works in October won't work in February. Trust your guide's river selection; they've spent lifetimes learning these patterns.
The Lodges: Where to Stay
Getting to Guyana's best fishing requires logistics that only established operations can provide. Here are the main options.
Rewa Eco-Lodge
The gold standard for arapaima fishing. This 100% community-owned lodge sits where the Rewa meets the Rupununi, offering access to the most protected arapaima populations in Guyana. Simple but comfortable accommodations with exceptional guides who grew up on these waters.
$200-300/person/night (all-inclusive) | $8,000+ for week-long packages
Jaguar Camp (Upper Essequibo)
For anglers wanting multi-species adventure in truly wild water. Located between King William Falls and Apoteri village, Jaguar Camp provides access to 80+ miles of pristine river rarely fished by outsiders. Remote camp experience — not for those needing creature comforts.
$4,000-6,000 for week-long packages
Karanambu Ranch / Caiman House
Primarily wildlife lodges that offer fishing as part of a broader experience. Karanambu is famous for giant otter rehabilitation; Caiman House specializes in black caiman research. Both offer peacock bass and piranha fishing alongside world-class wildlife viewing.
$200-400/person/night (all-inclusive with multiple activities)
Getting to the Lodges
Most trips start with a flight into Georgetown (GEO) from Miami or New York. From there, you'll fly domestically to Lethem or an interior airstrip (1-1.5 hours), then travel by road (2-4 hours) and boat (3-6 hours) depending on your destination. The journey is part of the adventure — expect to see wildlife along the way. All reputable operators handle logistics.
When to Go: Seasons and Timing
Timing matters more in Guyana than almost anywhere else. Water levels determine everything — which species are accessible, which rivers are navigable, and whether fish are concentrated or dispersed.
| Season | Months | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Prime Dry | Oct-Nov | Arapaima (fish concentrated), payara, all species |
| Second Dry | Feb-Apr | Arapaima, peacock bass, payara at falls |
| Transition | Sept, May | Variable — can be excellent or challenging |
| Wet Season | June-Aug | Generally avoid — high water, dispersed fish, difficult access |
What Locals Know About Timing
The transition periods (late September, early May) can produce the best fishing of the year if you time it right — but they're risky. Water levels are dropping or rising rapidly, concentrating fish in predictable spots. Local guides monitor conditions closely and will advise on optimal timing. Don't book based solely on calendar dates; ask about current water conditions closer to your trip.
Conservation: Why It Matters
Guyana's extraordinary fishing exists because communities have chosen conservation over exploitation. Understanding this context makes your trip more meaningful.
The Arapaima Story
Unregulated commercial fishing nearly wiped out arapaima by 2001 — only about 820 fish over 1 meter remained in the upper Essequibo basin. Indigenous communities, working with conservation biologists, implemented strict catch-and-release sport fishing. Today, populations have recovered to over 4,000 fish, and the community earns far more from living arapaima than they ever did from selling dead ones.
What You Can Do
- Book with community lodges — your money directly supports conservation
- Follow catch-and-release protocols exactly — minimize handling time, keep fish in water when possible
- Don't pressure guides for illegal practices — they risk their livelihoods
- Report poachers if you see them — communities take this seriously
- Tip generously — guides who earn well from tourists protect fish better
Critical Regulations
Arapaima are protected by law. Sport fishermen must release all arapaima — keeping one is illegal and will result in serious consequences. Your guides monitor the population and report catches to conservation researchers. Play by the rules and you're contributing to one of the great conservation success stories in the Amazon basin.
Gear and Tackle
For Arapaima
- Rods: Heavy spinning (50-80lb class) or 12-16wt fly rods
- Reels: Saltwater-grade with strong drag (arapaima make screaming runs)
- Line: 65-100lb braided with heavy fluorocarbon leader
- Flies: Large streamers (6-8 inches), peacock bass patterns
- Terminal: Strong circle hooks for catch-and-release
For Peacock Bass
- Rods: Medium-heavy spinning or 8-9wt fly rods
- Lures: Walk-the-dog topwater, poppers, prop baits, jerkbaits
- Line: 30-50lb braid with fluorocarbon leader
- Flies: Large poppers, streamers, deer hair bugs
For Payara
- Rods: Heavy spinning or 10-12wt fly rods
- Reels: Fast-sinking lines (400-500 grain sink tips for fly)
- Lures: Deep-running minnow baits, spoons, heavy jigs
- Hooks: Extra-sharp and strong (set the hook multiple times!)
What the Lodges Provide
Most lodges provide basic tackle, but serious anglers bring their own gear. Always confirm what's available before you arrive. Bring extra terminal tackle — you're a long way from any fishing shop. Waterproof bags are essential for boat travel. Polarized sunglasses help spot fish and protect from sun glare.
Costs: What to Expect
Guyana fishing isn't cheap — but it's not as expensive as many comparable destinations, and the money goes directly to local communities.
What's Usually Included
- All meals and accommodation
- Guided fishing (boat, guides, basic equipment)
- Domestic flights and transfers
- Activities and excursions
What's Usually Extra
- International flights to Georgetown
- Georgetown hotel nights (usually 1-2 nights each way)
- Premium tackle and personal gear
- Tips (budget $20-50/day for guides)
- Alcoholic beverages
Practical Tips from Experience
Physical Preparation
- Fighting arapaima is exhausting — bring good physical fitness
- Long boat rides in sun require stamina and good sun protection
- Heat and humidity are intense — stay hydrated
- Basic medical fitness required — you're far from hospitals
What to Bring
- Sun protection: Wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves, SPF 50+
- Rain gear: Showers happen even in "dry" season
- Insect repellent: DEET-based, strong concentration
- Waterproof bags: Protect everything electronic
- Headlamp: Essential for early departures and evening fishing
- Neutral clothing: Avoid bright colors that spook fish
- Camera: Waterproof or well-protected
- Cash: For tips and any extras (USD accepted)
- Patience: This is wilderness fishing, not a fish-every-cast situation
Final Local Wisdom
The anglers who catch the most don't just bring the best tackle — they bring the right attitude. Trust your guides completely; they know things that can't be learned from YouTube. Wake up before dawn without complaining. Stay on the water through the uncomfortable heat of midday if that's when fish are active. Respect the fish, the water, and the community that protects it. The rewards for those who approach Guyana fishing with humility are extraordinary.
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Browse Tour OperatorsFrequently Asked Questions
What is the best fish to catch in Guyana?
The arapaima is Guyana's most prized catch — it's the world's largest freshwater fish, reaching over 400 pounds and 10 feet long. The current world record arapaima (415 lbs) was caught in Guyana's Rewa River in 2015. For non-stop action, peacock bass (lukanani) provide aggressive strikes on topwater lures throughout the day.
When is the best time to go fishing in Guyana?
The dry season from September to April offers the best conditions. Water levels drop, concentrating fish in accessible pools. Peak months are October-November and February-April. Avoid the wet season (June-August) when high water disperses fish and makes many areas inaccessible.
How much does a fishing trip to Guyana cost?
Expect to pay $4,000-8,000+ per person for a week-long guided package including domestic flights, lodges, guides, and meals. Budget-conscious anglers can find shorter trips or combine fishing with general wildlife tours. International flights to Georgetown add $1,000-1,500. The remote locations and specialized logistics contribute to costs.
Can you keep the fish you catch in Guyana?
Arapaima are strictly catch-and-release by law — these protected giants must be handled carefully, photographed quickly, and released. Piranha and some other species can be kept and eaten, which is part of the authentic jungle experience. Your guides know the regulations for each species and location.
Do I need to be an experienced angler?
Intermediate experience is recommended, especially for arapaima. These powerful fish test tackle and technique. However, piranha fishing requires no experience at all, and peacock bass are forgiving of beginner mistakes. Let your operator know your skill level when booking — they can match you with appropriate guides and targets.
Is it safe to go fishing in Guyana?
Yes, with proper precautions and experienced guides. Piranhas are only aggressive toward bait and struggling prey — they won't attack swimmers in normal circumstances. Black caiman and anacondas are present but avoid humans. The main risks are sun exposure, dehydration, and the remote location far from medical facilities. All reputable lodges have safety protocols and first aid capabilities.
Last updated: January 2026. For help planning your Guyana fishing adventure, browse our tour operators or contact us. Information in this guide was compiled from local sources, conservation research, and verified angler experiences.