Essential equipment for sport fishing in Pantanal

Are you planning an exciting fishing adventure in the Pantanal? This article is just what you need to prepare with the right equipment and get the most out of your experience in this amazing sport fishing destination. Get ready for a unique and exciting experience!

What equipment do I need to fish in the Pantanal?

The choice of fishing rod is critical to success in the Pantanal. You’ll need to consider the length of the rod, its power, and the type of fishing you’ll be doing. The Pantanal offers a wide variety of fish species, each with its own preferences and fishing techniques. To ensure you have the success you’re looking for, it’s crucial to have the right team in place. Here’s a guide to the essentials:

Fishing rods for the Pantanal

The length and power of the fishing rod are essential to master the techniques in this destination. For the Pantanal, we recommend:

• Length: The length of the rod will depend on the type of fishing you are going to do and the species you are looking to catch. For fly fishing or lure fishing, 8 to 9 foot rods are recommended. For trawling or bottom fishing, longer rods, 10 to 12 feet, are needed.
• Power: Medium-fast or fast action rod to handle the mighty fish of the Pantanal

Fishing reels for the Pantanal

The choice of reel is key to controlling the fish that inhabit the wide and deep waters of the Pantanal. Look for reels with:

• Capacity: 200-300 yards of 20-30 lb test line. For trawling or bottom fishing, reels with larger capacity are needed, from 500 to 1000 yards of line from 50 to 80 lbs.
• Endurance: Designed to withstand strong pulls and runs from fish
• Gear Ratio: The gear ratio of the reel determines the speed at which the line is recovered. For fly fishing or lure fishing, reels with a gear ratio of 5:1 to 7:1 are recommended. For trawling or bottom fishing, you need reels with a higher gear ratio, from 8:1 to 10:1.

Fishing lures for the Pantanal

Lure colors and designs can make the difference between a successful day and a frustrating one. Some popular options include:

Wobblers and crankbaits in bright, vivid colors like yellow, orange, and red. Spinnerbaits with metal blades that sparkle underwater. Showy topwaters that mimic native forage fish.

• Artificial fish: Artificial fish, such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and jerkbaits, are very effective for fishing for species such as dorado, piranha, and pacu.
• Surface lures: Surface lures, such as poppers and buzzbaits, are ideal for attracting predatory fish such as tucunaré and traíra.
• Fishing flies: Fishing flies are the perfect lure for fly fishing, a very popular technique in the Pantanal to catch species such as dorado.

Fishing techniques in the Pantanal

Depending on the target species, you will need to master various techniques such as:

• Fly fishing: Effective for dorados, pacus and other surface fish
• Lure fishing: Ideal for more aggressive appetites such as tucunarés
• Trawling: Effective for catching groundfish such as surubíes
• Bottom fishing: Perfect for catching big fish like the big dorados. However, it is important to be careful not to harm the environment when practicing this technique.
• Trolling: A quiet and effective technique to cover more water.  Bottom fishing is an ideal technique for catching fish that inhabit the bottom of the water, such as catfish and mojarra.

What species can I fish in the Pantanal?

The Pantanal is a true fisherman’s paradise. Some of the most sought-after species include:

Dorado

One of the most sought-after fish, dorado is known for its strong jumps and aggressive fighting. Fishing with lures or flies in rapids and backwater areas.

Tucunaré

This ferocious predator is an excellent choice for lure fishing. Look for areas with dense vegetation and hiding places.

Pacu

This small-mouthed, stocky-bodied fish is an exciting challenge for fly anglers. Focus on calmer waters.

Surubí

The gigantic surubí, one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, is the jewel in the crown of the Pantanal. Bottom fishing with natural bait is the best option.

Safety Tips for Fishing in the Pantanal

Fishing in the Pantanal can be an exciting adventure, but it also requires a few precautions:

• Hire the services of experienced fishing guides who know the region.
• Use sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing.
• Bring a first aid kit and make sure you have medical coverage.
• Respect local fishing rules and regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sport Fishing Equipment in the Pantanal

1. What length of fishing rod is recommended for the Pantanal?

For fishing in the Pantanal, we recommend rods 6-8 feet in length for distance fishing and 8-10 feet for closer fishing.

2. What is the ideal power of the fishing rod for the Pantanal?

Medium-fast or fast acting rods are best suited to handle the powerful fish that inhabit the Pantanal.

3. What reel capacity do I need to fish in the Pantanal?

We recommend reels with a capacity of 200-300 line yards of 20-30 lb test to be able to control the Pantanal fish.

4. What features should a fishing reel for the Pantanal have?

Look for reels specifically designed to withstand the strong pulls and dashes of the Pantanal fish.

5. What colors and designs of lures are most effective in the Pantanal?

Bright and lively lures like wobblers, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits in yellow, orange, and red hues are some of the best options.

6. What fishing techniques are most appropriate for the Pantanal?

Depending on the target species, you can use techniques such as fly fishing, lure fishing, trawling, bottom fishing, and trolling.

7. What are the main species of fish I can catch in the Pantanal?

Some of the most sought-after species are dorado, tucunaré, pacú and surubí.

8. What are the best rivers to fish in the Pantanal?

Some of the most popular rivers are the Paraguay, Cuiabá, São Lourenço, and Miranda.

9. What precautions should I take to fish safely in the Pantanal?

It is important to hire the services of experienced guides, use sunscreen and insect repellent, carry a first aid kit and respect local regulations.

10. How can I get help planning my Pantanal fishing trip?

Our sport fishing experts are at your disposal to advise you and help you organize the fishing trip of your dreams in the Pantanal.

Book your trip to the Pantanal today with Lorenzo Expeditions and live an unforgettable adventure.

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