Freshwater Fishing in Guyana

With such a robust landscape of rivers and forests, it’s not surprising that Guyana is one of the globe’s best places for freshwater fishing. The South American country is especially known for the Arapaima — the world’s largest freshwater fish. But overall, there are close to 500 species of fish, many of them on the list of the bucket list of avid anglers.

How to plan a fishing trip in Guyana:

• Best Season: Since Guyana has two main seasons (wet and dry), the water level in the rivers changes drastically. Monsoon rains mean May to October is largely inaccessible for fishing, making the latter part of the year perfect for anglers to visit. The fishing season normally runs until February. February to May isn’t ideal, but you can still trawl about and find some good places along the rivers.

• Stay: Eco-lodges and community run accommodation in villages close to rivers are the best choice for anglers. Un-fussy but comfortable, they’re perfect for recuperating after a long day on the river, places to relax, enjoy local food and share your stories. You can also find working ranches that welcome visitors alongside rivers. Karanambu Lodge is one such option. Some of the other places to consider are Surama Eco Lodge along the Burro Burro River, Rewa Eco Lodge, the community-run accommodation in Rockstone, and even the Arrowpoint Resort for recreational fishing.

• Hiring Guides and Equipment: Georgetown, the national capital, offers several shops where you can hire fishing equipment. If you’ve chosen to fish with a guide (recommended) or as part of a tour, they are likely to supply the equipment. Wilderness Explorers and Rupununi Trails are the most seasoned organizations when it comes to sport fishing. Both companies are pioneers of outdoor activities in Guyana and know the best fishing holes. The two companies also offer the most adventurous journeys, including jungle river camping. Local Amerindian guides help you with their in-depth knowledge of the fish and navigating the waters. Book ahead to bag a spot on their tours. These can also be customized for your group.