The 2024 season at Kendjam is underway so we thought it timely to look at the unforgettable angling experience on offer here in the heart of the Amazon. This fly fishing holiday in Brazil really is so much more than just an angling expedition. Add fascinating indigenous culture, fabulous wildlife, birdlife, and scenery and you’ll have a truly memorable experience.
Kendjam is located in one of the most hidden areas of the Brazilian Amazon – the Mekragnoti Indigenous Territory. This clear water fishery is renowned for its spectacular sight fishing opportunities for species like peacock bass, payara, pacú, and wolfish. Most fishing is done on foot, with anglers transported between fishing spots by locally built boats. The granite riverbed ensures good water clarity for sight fishing, even after heavy rain, and makes wading comfortable and safe. This trip is ideal for adventurous anglers seeking a remarkable fishing and cultural experience.
In addition to exceptional dry fly and sight fishing, what sets this trip apart is the Kendjam hosts, the Kayapo tribe – an indigenous community living in 5 million hectares of untouched Amazon forest.
Space for the 2024 season is filling fast so if you are keen to experience this amazing spot for yourself do not hesitate to contact Olly Thompson or Alex Jardine or call our office on +44(0)1980 847 389.
The Fishing
Anglers at Kendjam move between beats in 25-30’ aluminum canoes powered by long-tailed outboards. Each pair of anglers will have one guide and a Kayapo boatman. The river’s beats offer both wade and boat fishing, and sight fishing in coves and braids is particularly rewarding.
The 810-mile Iriri River, the 15th longest in the Amazon, originates near Bolivia and flows north to the Xingu River. Unlike many Amazon tributaries, the Iriri cuts a direct path through granite, featuring clear blue-green water and peach-colored beaches. Wildlife is abundant, and the nearest settlement is 15 days downriver, deep in a pristine ecosystem.
The Xingu basin, home to over 450 fish species (25 endemic), includes the Iriri with at least 10-12 fly-fishable species. Five standout species are:
Xingu Peacock Bass (Cichla melaniae): Endemic to the Xingu, these 3-6 pound bass prefer fast water and are strong fighters, ideal for 6 to 7-weight rods, making up about 60% of your catch.
Wolf Fish (Hoplias lacerdae): Averaging 10-15 pounds, these aggressive, toothy fish lie in wait to ambush prey. They provide a unique challenge, often requiring repeated attempts to hook.
Pacu-borracha (Tometes sp. Valenciennes): Found in fast-water environments, these 2-4 pound fish fight like steelhead and are best fished with a 6 to 7-weight rod and floating line.
Matrinxa (Brycon Amazonicus): These trout-like fish, 2-5 pounds, are wary and provide great sport on a 6-weight rod with rubber-legged dries. They jump wildly when hooked.
Bicuda (Boulengerella maculata): Freshwater barracuda, nearly three feet long, are fierce fighters found in larger pools. They are difficult to hook and land, offering a thrilling challenge.
Kendjam Higlights
Prime fly fishing – The clear waters of the Iriri River are teeming with peacock bass, pacu, matrinxã, bicuda, the mighty wolffish and more. The catch-and-release policy ensures thrilling sport while preserving the river’s vibrant ecosystem.
Wildlife encounters – Beyond fishing, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Amazonian wildlife. Spot colourful macaws, elusive jaguars, and playful river otters during your stay.
Cultural immersion – Engage with the local Kayapó community, learning about their deep connections to the land and their sustainable practices that protect their ancestral home.
The Lodge
The Kendjam camp operates from June through August, accommodating 8 anglers in deluxe double occupancy hardwood cabins built on large wooden decks overlooking a remote beach 40 km downstream from the village of Kendjam. The cabins feature comfortable bedding, ceiling fans, showers, toilets, and a dining tent, as well as a solar charging station. These may be the best-appointed accommodations within a 700-mile radius. Additionally, a simple camping-style spike camp 25 km downriver opens up several more fishing beats, with anglers having the option to spend two nights there.
Travelling to Kendjam
Arrive in Manaus (MAO) on a Friday, where a Kendjam representative will meet you and transfer you to the Caesar Business Hotel for check-in and an overnight stay (included in the package). The next morning, board a private air charter to the lodge. On departure day, you will leave the lodge via private air charter in the morning, arriving back in Manaus by early afternoon. You can then fly home that evening or opt to overnight in Manaus again.
This video gives a wonderful overview of the fly fishing experience at Kendjam.
The season runs from mid-June to mid-September and the lodge accommodates just eight anglers a week. Space for the 2024 season is filling fast so if you are keen to experience this amazing spot for yourself do not hesitate to contact Peter McLeod or Alex Jardine or call our office on +44(0)1980 847 389.