Kendjam Fishing Report 2026 Season | A Clear Beginning

The 2026 season is officially underway.

Hidden deep within the Kayapó Indigenous Territory, the Iriri River welcomed its first anglers with exactly what makes Kendjam unlike anywhere else in the Amazon: crystal-clear water flowing over ancient granite formations, endless jungle, remarkable wildlife and an extraordinary diversity of gamefish.

Before the first cast, the river was already putting on a show.

Blue-and-yellow macaws crossed overhead. Giant river otters patrolled the channels. Fresh tapir and jaguar tracks appeared along the riverbanks each morning, reminders that this is still one of the wildest landscapes left in South America.

Then came the fishing.

From the opening day, anglers experienced the visual fly fishing that has become Kendjam's signature. Peacock bass could be spotted moving through shallow channels and along structure before charging a perfectly presented fly with explosive aggression.

The Iriri once again demonstrated why diversity is its greatest strength.

Matrinxã delivered relentless action with explosive takes. Bicuda launched airborne attacks on fast-moving streamers. Wolf fish lived up to their reputation with crushing strikes and powerful fights around submerged structures. Pacu demanded precision and strong presentations, while impressive payara added another level of excitement to an already spectacular week.

One angler achieved something truly special, landing 11 different species during the expedition—nearly all of them trophy-quality fish. It was a remarkable demonstration of the Kendjam biodiversity and one of those accomplishments that can only happen in a river like Iriri.

By the end of the week, the group had landed an outstanding 472 fish, including exceptional specimens across several of the river's iconic species:

Peacock Bass: 62 cm
Payara: 86 cm
Wolf Fish: 84 cm
Matrinxã: 53 cm
Pacu: 43 cm
Silver Pacu: 37 cm

Perhaps the greatest highlight, however, was the condition of the fish themselves.

The peacock bass were in exceptional shape, displaying the intense yellow, emerald and jet-black coloration for which the Iriri has become famous. Aggressive, healthy and immensely powerful, they provided the kind of visual, heart-stopping encounters that define Kendjam.

None of this would be possible without the Kayapó people.

For generations, they have protected these rivers and the surrounding forest, preserving an ecosystem where fish populations continue to thrive and biodiversity remains extraordinary. Fishing Kendjam is not simply about catching fish—it's about experiencing a river that is still governed by nature's own rhythms and cared for by the people who know it best.

If Week One is any indication, the 2026 season is shaping up to be something very special.

The Iriri is alive, the fish are active, and another unforgettable season has begun.

GUIDES & STAFF
Kendjam Lodge, 2026

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Conservation is about more than protecting rivers—it's about creating opportunities for the people who have protected them for generations.

Through scientific research, Indigenous education, and community-led initiatives, the Pinawaca Foundation is helping build a sustainable future for the Amazon.

Follow our journey at @pinawacafoundation.