Colombia, located in the northwest corner of South America, is a country of remarkable geographic and ecological diversity. Bordered by Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, and Panama, with coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, it offers a unique mix of freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities for the adventurous angler.
Vast lowland jungles, rolling savannahs, and the eastern reaches of the Andes Mountains shape the country’s interior, and one of the most captivating areas for fishing lies deep within the Colombian Amazon, where river systems like the Tomo and Orinoco weave through pristine rainforests. These waters are home to an extraordinary variety of fish species, including trophy Peacock Bass, aggressive Payara, Black Pacu, and monster Catfish such as the Redtail and Piraiba.
For those looking to explore Colombia’s saltwater side, the bluewater fishing off the Caribbean coast is well worth discovering. The waters around Antigua, in particular, are known for their seasonal runs of Dorado, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo, and even Marlin. With warm, clear water and consistent action, it’s a great option for anglers wanting to combine jungle adventure with time on the open sea. Whether casting poppers near reef edges or trolling offshore, Colombia’s saltwater scene offers a dynamic complement to its inland river systems.
The Akuani Floating Camp is nestled in the heart of the untamed jungle in Colombia's pristine wilderness, and it provides an unrivalled fly and lure fishing experience for trophy Peacock Bass, fierce Payara, Pacu and a range of different Catfish. Every cast promises a memorable encounter in some of South America's most biodiverse and unspoiled waters.
Fishing in Colombia offers a rare combination of wild jungle rivers and rich offshore waters, making it a truly diverse destination for travelling anglers. Deep in the Colombian Amazon, remote rivers like the Tomo deliver a unique fly fishing experience in one of the world’s most untouched environments. Sight-casting to aggressive Peacock Bass in clear, tree-lined channels is a thrilling challenge, with explosive strikes and powerful runs being the norm.
On the coast, Colombia’s Caribbean waters, especially around areas like Anigua, provide excellent bluewater fishing opportunities. Here, anglers can experience topwater popper and jig fishing over reefs and in open water, targeting fast-moving pelagic species in a warm, tropical setting.
Colombia’s jungle rivers are home to a wide range of powerful freshwater species that offer both variety and excitement for visiting anglers. Peacock Bass are the standout target—known for their vivid colours, aggressive takes, and explosive topwater strikes; they’re a favourite among fly fishers. Sharing the same waters, you’ll also find Payara, often called Vampire Fish, instantly recognisable by their long fangs and fierce, fast strikes. Black Pacu provide a different kind of challenge, with their deep bodies and intense, sustained fights, while Redtail and Piraiba Catfish represent the true heavyweights of the river, capable of testing both your strength and your gear.
Along the Caribbean coast, the saltwater action is equally rewarding. The offshore waters around areas like Anigua are home to fast-moving pelagics, including Dorado, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo, Sailfish, and even Marlin during the peak season. Closer to shore, the reefs produce consistent action from hard-fighting Jacks and Snapper, making Colombia a destination where both jungle and bluewater fishing come together in one unforgettable trip.
For jungle river fishing, the ideal window typically runs from late December to early April, when water levels drop, and fish become more concentrated and aggressive. For saltwater trips along the Caribbean coast, the months of December to May offer the most stable weather and productive fishing conditions. However, species like Tuna and Wahoo can often be found year-round.
For jungle fly fishing, an 8 to 10-weight rod with floating and intermediate lines is ideal for targeting Peacock Bass and other species. Large, durable flies, such as streamers, baitfish patterns, and poppers, are essential.
For bluewater fishing, heavy-duty spinning or jigging gear is recommended. Poppers, stickbaits, and metal jigs are all effective, depending on the target species and conditions. A good selection of leaders, strong hooks, and spare lines is also advisable due to the strength and toothy nature of many species.
Colombia is well connected by international flights, with Bogotá serving as the main entry point. From there, internal flights can take you to the coastal regions or inland towns near jungle fishing camps. Most remote fishing destinations, like the Tomo River, require a combination of domestic flights, ground transfers, and boat travel, which are all arranged, so you don’t have to worry.
