Planning a fishing trip to the Colombian Amazon is one of the most exciting decisions any angler can make. When it comes to understanding how to plan a fishing trip to the Colombian Amazon, few places on earth combine untouched river systems, explosive freshwater species, indigenous culture, and complete isolation the way Colombia does. Whether your dream is to battle a 20+ lb peacock bass, fight a razor-toothed payara in the rapids, or explore lagoons no one else has seen, the Colombian Amazon remains a once-in-a-lifetime destination.
After more than a decade exploring these remote regions, Afloat Fishing & Adventure has perfected the logistics, timing, and experience needed to make this trip smooth, safe, and unforgettable. This guide explains exactly how to plan a fishing trip to the Colombian Amazon the right way, focusing on timing, travel routes, conditions, expectations, safety, and preparation.
Why the Colombian Amazon Is One of the Best Fishing Destinations on Earth
The Colombian Amazon is part of one of the most biodiverse and untouched ecosystems on the planet, making it an ideal region for anyone learning how to plan a fishing trip to the Colombian Amazon. Compared to the Brazilian and Peruvian Amazon, Colombia offers:
• Far less fishing pressure
• Exclusive-access rivers through indigenous partnerships
• More consistent dry-season water levels
• Easy access through Bogotá
• High biodiversity of predatory species
• Safe, organized operations run by expert teams
Destinations such as Akuani Floating Camp, Akuani River Lodge, and Pasimoni Lodge operated by Afloat Fishing & Adventure provide direct access to fisheries few people ever see. This combination of remoteness, exclusivity, and well-structured logistics is what makes Colombia exceptional.
Best Time to Plan a Fishing Trip to the Colombian Amazon
The most important factor in Amazon fishing isn’t the weather, it’s the water level.
Peak Fishing Season (Dry Season): January – March
During these months:
• Water levels drop
• Lagoons open
• Baitfish concentrate
• Peacock bass become territorial and aggressive
• Topwater strikes explode
• Long-distance visibility improves for sight fishing
NASA Earth Observatory shows consistent yearly receding patterns in Colombia’s Orinoco Basin:
https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/
This stability allows Afloat Fishing & Adventure to run one of the most reliable peacock bass seasons in South America.
Travel Logistics: How to Plan a Fishing Trip to the Colombian Amazon and Get There Smoothly
Traveling deep into the Amazon sounds complicated — but when you understand how to plan a fishing trip to the Colombian Amazon with the right outfitter, the journey is surprisingly simple.
Step 1: Fly to Bogotá, Colombia
Bogotá (BOG – El Dorado International Airport) receives direct flights from Miami, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, New York, Orlando, Madrid, São Paulo, and Panama City.
Step 2: Overnight in Bogotá
Afloat Fishing & Adventure includes or arranges hotel stays for groups as needed. This allows time for gear organization, meeting the team, trip briefings, and resting after long flights.
Step 3: Private Charter Flight to the Jungle
Amazon destinations require private charter flights to reach remote indigenous regions. Afloat Fishing & Adventure handles all permissions, charter arrangements, and weight limits.
Step 4: Boat Transfer to Camp or Lodge
Depending on the destination, the final leg may include a river boat, aluminum skiff, fast canoe, or short 4×4 ride. This moment marks the true entrance into the Amazon.
What to Expect from Amazon Lodging & Comfort When Learning How to Plan a Fishing Trip to the Colombian Amazon
Amazon fishing does NOT have to be uncomfortable. When you know how to plan a fishing trip to the Colombian Amazon, you’ll find that modern, purpose-built lodges offer excellent comfort while keeping the experience wild.
With Afloat Fishing & Adventure, you can expect:
• Clean, comfortable beds
• Mosquito-screened rooms
• Generator or solar electricity
• Starlink WiFi
• Private chef-prepared meals
• Filtered water
• Daily housekeeping
• Professional bilingual staff
• Native guides with lifetime river experience
Akuani Floating Camp moves along the river to access untouched waters, while Akuani River Lodge provides a stable base deep inside the jungle. Both offer a level of comfort that surprises most first-time visitors.
Health & Safety: How to Prepare and How to Plan a Fishing Trip to the Colombian Amazon Safely
Traveling to the Amazon is safe when the right protocols are followed.
Vaccines (Recommended but Not Mandatory):
• Yellow Fever
• Tetanus
The World Wildlife Fund provides detailed information about the Amazon’s ecosystem:
https://www.worldwildlife.org/places/amazon
Safety With Afloat Fishing & Adventure:
• Over 10 years operating without incidents
• Satellite communication and starlink
• Indigenous community partnerships
• Private charters
• Experienced captains and guides
• Emergency protocols/Travel insurance
• Medical kits at all lodges
• Strong focus on guest well-being
The remote zones where Afloat operates are controlled, quiet, and protected, not tourism hotspots.
Packing List: Clothing & Essentials to Prepare for the Amazon
Your packing list should focus on comfort, sun protection, and jungle adaptability, especially once you understand how to plan a fishing trip to the Colombian Amazon.
Bring:
• UPF 50 long-sleeve shirts
• Quick-dry pants
• Polarized sunglasses
• Wide-brim hat or buff
• Light rain jacket
• Water shoes or sandals
• Sunscreen & lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Lightweight gloves (optional)
• Waterproof dry bag
• Personal toiletries
• Hydration salts
• Headlamp
• Travel documents
For a complete Amazon Peacock Bass gear list, including rods, reels, lines, leaders, and lures, see the full guide here:
https://afloatadventure.com/blog/amazon-peacock-bass-gear-guide-colombia/
Understanding the Amazon Environment Before You Go
To plan a fishing trip to the Colombian Amazon correctly, it helps to understand its unique conditions.
Temperature: 80–95°F (27–35°C)
Humidity: High — hydrate frequently
Rain: Short daily showers even in dry season
Wildlife: Pink dolphins, jaguars, anacondas, macaws, monkeys, caimans, parrots, tapirs, and more
Fishing Pressure: Extremely low in Afloat’s destinations
River Structure: Lagoons, sandbars, creek mouths, channels, flooded forest, submerged wood, and rapids
Knowing this before your trip helps you adapt quickly and fish more effectively from day one.
How to Choose the Right Outfitter for the Amazon
Choosing the right operator can make or break the trip. Afloat Fishing & Adventure offers:
• Exclusive-access rivers
• Strict control over fishing pressure
• Professional bilingual hosts
• Private chefs
• Floating camps that follow fish migration
• Long-term partnerships with indigenous communities
• Starlink WiFi
• Modern boats with new outboard motors
• End-to-end logistics from Bogotá to the jungle
• Direct support from the owner throughout the process
This combination ensures a safe, authentic, productive fishing experience.
How Far in Advance You Should Book When Learning How to Plan a Fishing Trip to the Colombian Amazon
Because the Amazon season is short and extremely popular, anglers should book:
6–12 months in advance for peak weeks (January–February)
3–6 months in advance for late-season (March) or last-minute openings
Many groups return year after year, making early planning essential.
Final Thoughts: Planning a Fishing Trip to the Colombian Amazon
Planning a fishing trip to the Colombian Amazon isn’t complicated, but doing it right requires attention to timing, logistics, and preparation. With consistent water levels, easy travel through Bogotá, and world-class remote lodges, Colombia offers one of the best Amazon fishing experiences on the planet.
Afloat Fishing & Adventure has spent more than a decade perfecting jungle logistics, ensuring that every guest arrives fully prepared and returns home with unforgettable memories.
If you’re ready to explore the Amazon, start with our two main destinations:
Akuani Floating Camp
https://afloatadventure.com/akuani-floating-camp/
Akuani River Lodge
https://afloatadventure.com/akuani-river-lodge/
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to fish the Colombian Amazon?
January through March — peak dry season.
Do I need vaccines?
Yellow fever is recommended but not mandatory.
Is the Amazon safe?
Yes. Afloat Fishing & Adventure has operated safely for more than 12 years.
How many days is a typical Amazon fishing trip?
7 days, with 6 full fishing days.
Can beginners fish the Amazon?
Yes — many first-time anglers land trophy fish with professional guidance.
