Is the Future of Amazon Peacock Bass Fishing in Jeopardy?

We’ve chased peacock bass and other exotic species in Brazil multiple times. Indeed, our first trip to the Rio Negro region in 2011 was the experience that really whetted our appetite to branch out beyond largemouth and smallmouth bass.

A lot has changed since those first visits, and the globe is a complicated and ever-evolving laboratory. There exists a very real chance that future generations might not be able to enjoy adventures similar to those that were so special to us. Indeed, if we don’t act quickly, we might not be able to go back to the region’s fisheries.

We hate being the bearer of bad news, but could the alleged troubles in Brazil in general and the Amazon in particular be a canary in the coal mine for other global fisheries?

• The Fires That Could Reshape the Amazon

• Brazil's Lula backs highway through Amazon that could drive deforestation

• Drought and wildfires threaten energy supply in the Amazon’s biggest city

• Indigenous Rights Under Siege: Brazil’s New Battle for the Amazon and Cultural Survival

• Amazon river levels fall due to lack of rain, hurting navigation

• The World’s Largest Wetland Is Burning, and Rare Animals Are Dying

• Fires ravage Brazil’s Pantanal, threatening its unique biodiversity

• Tons of dead fish cover a river in Brazil after alleged dumping of industrial waste

• A Three Border Problem: Holding Back the Amazon’s Criminal Frontiers

Obviously, the recognition of these issues is the first step, but it’s critical to act on them ASAP. Here are some steps and thoughts on that topic:

• Ask an Amazon Expert: Why We Can't Afford to Lose the Rainforest

• How Can Brazil’s Amazon Resist Longer Floods And Stronger Droughts?

• President Lula to announce drought mitigation measures in Manaus

And if you’re negative enough that you don’t believe any positive change is possible in South America, check out this article from NatGeo

• One of Earth’s biggest freshwater fish is bouncing back, a rare ‘win win’

As we recently pointed out, the historical Tropical Hotel in Manaus is set to be revitalized. Here is some additional news about traveling to Amazonas.

• LATAM plans new business class with doors for 787 Dreamliner fleet

• TAP Air Portugal to Resume Manaus Service

• Azul and GOL start sale of 40 codeshare routes in Brazil

For a variety of reasons, I suggest that if you want a great peacock bass trip to South America you should go sooner rather than later. Email us and we can give you our thoughts on when and where to go. Still, I’m enough of an optimist to believe that the Amazon region’s natural resources can be saved. Learn about them, find an organization that fits your values and politics, and contribute or donate to the best of your ability.