Best Fishing Spots

The Pantanal is the largest tropical wetland in the world and a paradise for sport fishers. Its rivers, lagoons, and floodplains provide a rich habitat for species like the golden dourado, the powerful pintado, and the elusive jaú. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting, knowing where to cast your line makes all the difference.

Below you’ll find some of the top fishing spots in the Pantanal, including what makes each location unique, which species you’ll likely find, and tips for planning your trip.

Rio Cuiabá

  • Location: Northern Pantanal, near the city of Cuiabá (Mato Grosso).
  • Why it’s famous: Known as one of the best rivers for catching pintado and cachara.
  • What you’ll catch: Pintado, Cachara, Pacu, Jaú.
  • Tips: The Cuiabá is wide and strong — best experienced with local guides who know the channels. Lodges nearby offer full fishing packages.

Rio Cuiabá Cuiabá River (110569799)
William Monteiro, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Rio Paraguai

  • Location: Crosses the Pantanal and runs through Corumbá (Mato Grosso do Sul).
  • Why it’s famous: One of South America’s great rivers, central to the Pantanal’s ecosystem.
  • What you’ll catch: Dourado, Pacu, Piranhas, Corvina.
  • Tips: The Paraguai has accessible fishing from boats, especially around Corumbá. It’s also a prime river for scenic tours, so combine fishing with wildlife watching.

Flavio Andre Maguari Rio Paraguai Caceres MT (40063023695)
MTur Destinos, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Rio Miranda

  • Location: Southeastern Pantanal, near the town of Miranda (MS).
  • Why it’s famous: A hotspot for sport fishing with easy access from Campo Grande.
  • What you’ll catch: Dourado, Pacu, Pintado, Piau.
  • Tips: Great choice for short trips — many fishing lodges and “pousadas pantaneiras” are located along this river.

Flavioandre Pousada Park Rio Miranda Passo do Lontra Corumba MS (40209176885)
MTur Destinos, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Rio Aquidauana

  • Location: Southeast Pantanal, running near the historic town of Aquidauana (MS).
  • Why it’s famous: Known for clear waters and abundant medium-sized fish.
  • What you’ll catch: Pacu, Piau, Traíra, Dourado.
  • Tips: Popular among beginners and families; easier to fish compared to the larger rivers.

Rio Aquidauana MS - Rancho Pedra Lisa - panoramio
Edmarjr, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Rio Negro

  • Location: Southern Pantanal, running through pristine conservation areas.
  • Why it’s famous: Crystal-clear waters and extraordinary biodiversity.
  • What you’ll catch: Pacu, Dourado, Piraputanga.
  • Tips: Strong focus on catch & release and eco-tourism. Perfect for those who want fishing combined with birdwatching and wildlife photography.

Corixo and Lagoon Areas

  • Location: Scattered throughout the floodplains, especially during the wet season.
  • Why it’s famous: Seasonal lagoons are where fish gather as waters recede.
  • What you’ll catch: Piranhas, Pacu, smaller species.
  • Tips: Go with a local guide — some lagoons are on private land or protected areas.

Corixo do Moquém
Fernando Bastos de Souza, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Planning Your Fishing Trip

  • Best Season: May to September (dry season).
  • Piracema Closed Season: October to February, when native species reproduction is protected. Fishing restrictions apply — check before you go.
  • Guides & Lodges: Hiring a licensed guide is strongly recommended. They provide boats, gear, and ensure compliance with local laws.
  • Conservation Tip: Practice catch & release, avoid plastic waste, and respect local regulations to help keep the Pantanal’s rivers healthy.