FISHING TOURISM IN RIO DE JANEIRO
Historically, fishing has been associated with subsistence and commerce, However, the evolution from amateur fishing to sport fishing has transformed this activity into an incredible tourism product with immense added value. Fishing tourism is a growing segment on the international stage that offers leisure, promotes economic growth, improves the quality of life in local communities and, crucially, contributes to environmental conservation efforts.
Enthusiasts of this tourism niche seek nature immersion, biodiversity, and local cultures-authentic and unforgettable fishing experiences. For fishing lovers, here are several standout global destinations:
- Saltwater Fishing Destinations:
- Cabo San Lucas (Mexico) – Species: Blue Marlin and White Marlin.
- Bahamas Islands (Bahamas) – Species: Bonefish.
- Costa Rica (Costa Rica) – Species: Marlin.
- North Atlantic/Canada (Prince Edward Island) – Species: Giant Bluefin Tuna.
- Seychelles (Africa – Indian Ocean) – Species: Giant Trevally, Bonefish, and Milkfish.

- Freshwater Fishing Destinations:
- Paraná River Basin (Argentina – Paso de la Patria, Itá Ibaté) – Species: Dorado and Surubí.
- Patagonia (Argentina and Chile) – Species: Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout.
- Alaska (USA) – Species: Various Salmon and Rainbow Trout species.
- Mongolia (Mongolia) – Species: Taimen.
- Norway (Norway) – Species: Cod and Atlantic Salmon.
Despite the many international options, Brazil, with its incredible aquatic biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, stands out as one of the main global destinations for fishing tourism, offering incomparable locations:
- Amazon Fishing:
- Type: Freshwater / River.
- Key Locations: Barcelos Region, on the banks of the Rio Negro.
- Species: Tucunaré-açu (Peacock Bass) (The trophy fish that attracts anglers worldwide), Pirarara (Redtail Catfish), Piraíba, and Jaú.
- Best Season: Generally during the dry period, between September and February, when waters are lower and fish are more concentrated.

- Pantanal fishing:
- Type: Freshwater / River.
- Key Locations: Cáceres (Mato Grosso) and Corumbá and Aquidauana (Mato Grosso do Sul).
- Species: Dorado (known as the “king of the river”), Pacu, Jaú, Pintado, and Cachara.
- Best Season: Between March and October, outside the Piracema (spawning) season, which occurs from November to February.
- South Bahia Coast Fishing:
- Type: Saltwater / Oceanic.
- Key Locations: Mainly Canavieiras, Porto Seguro, and Ilhéus.
- Species: This region is renowned for catching large Billfish such as the White Marlin and Blue Marlin, as well as Tuna and Dorado (Mahi-Mahi).
- Best Season: Between December and March for the larger pelagic species.
Paraná River Basin Fishing
- Type: Freshwater / River.
- Key Locations: Mainly in the regions of Presidente Epitácio (SP), Foz do Iguaçu (PR), and border towns in Argentina (Paso de la Patria and Itá Ibaté).
- Species: Dorado and Surubim (Cachara and Pintado), with an emphasis on large Catfish (peixes de couro).
- Best Season: Between March and October.

Important: It is crucial to check the Piracema (spawning) period when planning your trip, especially if your focus is on river fishing.
Fishing tourism integrates an important production chain for riverside commu nities, offering local guides, fishing lodges, transportation services, and the acquisition of equipment, supplies, and bait.
The city of Rio de Janeiro, in addition to its countless tourist attractions (Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Tijuca Forest, Pedra da Gávea, etc.), is also a fishing destination. The Marvelous City unites sport fishing with the city’s incredible charm, attracting offshore anglers and coastal enthusiasts.
The bucolic neighborhood of Barra de Guaratiba, located in the west zone of Rio de Janeiro, is an amazing destination for fishing tourism in Rio, featuring a stunning landscape that combines mountains, mangroves, Atlantic Forest, and the open sea. This region is noted for: Mahi-Mahi (Dourados do Mar) (between October and March), Bluefish (Anchovas), Snapper (Pargos), Yellowtail Amberjack (Olhetes), Snook (Robalos), Jack Crevalle (Xaréus), and Grouper (Garoupas).
Barra de Guaratiba also boasts numerous seafood restaurants, consolidating it as a must-visit destination for fishing lovers and seafood gastronomy enthusiasts seeking tranquility, an authentic experience, and the thrill of the sea.

If you are interested in Fishing Tourism Brazil, Sport Fishing, Fishing Trips, Fishing Packages, and Catch and Release, contact Xperiencer Brazil to assist you on this adventure.