Kayak Fishing the Amazon: The Dangers and Rewards
12-minute read
Bending Branches Pro Team member Anderson Guedes kayak fishes in his native Brazil and produces video content sharing both the rewards and the dangers of the environment there.
Most of our fishing readers are in North America. So we thought you’d be fascinated to see what kayak fishing is like in the Southern Hemisphere—specifically in the Amazon River basin.
Anderson graciously gave us some time to answer these questions and share some of his video and photo content. Here’s our interview with Anderson Guedes:
BENDING BRANCHES: Tell us a little bit about your kayak fishing background.
ANDERSON: Fishing for me is more than just a hobby—it’s a part of who I am. I started as a child, around three or four years old, in Mato Grosso do Sul, surrounded by the vastness of the Pantanal. That place is incredibly rich—much like the Amazon, but with a different vibe, you know? The forests, animals, and even the fish have their own unique character there.
Later, at 16, I moved to Denmark, and that's where I learned fly fishing—targeting trout and salmon, a completely new experience. When I returned at 19, I ended up in Porto Velho, Rondônia, and I've been here for 20 years now, immersed in the Amazon.
About six years ago, when I started kayak fishing, I also decided to film and share these adventures on social media. Since then, this project has grown in ways I never imagined! Today, we’re a reference for fishing in Brazil and well-known in several countries. Just search for Anderson Guedes on social media, and you’ll find plenty of adventures, stories, and excitement from the rivers of this immense Amazon.
And honestly, I can’t help but feel emotional about how lucky we are in Brazil. The Pantanal and the Amazon are two incredible treasures for anyone who loves to fish—each in its own way, but both are unmatched.
The Amazon, well, don’t even get me started! It’s so much bigger and more diverse than what people see out there. Those who live here know: our richness is something you can only understand by experiencing it.
That’s it. Every river, every lake, every fish that fights on the line reminds me of how special this land is. And I feel privileged to be able to live and share this with so many people who also love fishing and nature.
BRANCHES: What kinds of dangerous wildlife are common in the Amazon where you fish?
ANDERSON: Here, nature reigns supreme, and encountering dangerous animals is an intrinsic part of the experience. The dangers are present both on land and in the water, each with its unique and fascinating characteristics:
The Large Terrestrial Predators
Jaguars are the sovereigns of the jungle. More than just fantastic, they are the apex predator of the Amazon: silent, powerful, and opportunistic. Their ecological role is vital for the balance of the ecosystem.
An encounter with them is a rare and dangerous privilege, as proven by the episode in which I was attacked by a jaguar, resulting in injuries that required 1,118 stitches and the death of the animal by knife in self-defense. Here’s a link to the article about that encounter.
Caimans and alligators are a constant and abundant presence. The highlight is the impressive black caiman (Melanosuchus niger), the largest crocodilian in the Americas, capable of reaching up to 6 meters in length. They are masters of camouflage, often seen basking on riverbanks or watching motionlessly from the water, always observing.
Dangers in the Water: A World Apart
The water is not only the habitat of the fish we seek but also of formidable creatures.
Predatory Fish:
Piranhas are famous and somewhat unfairly feared. Their bites are indeed powerful but attacks on humans are rare. They’re usually associated with specific conditions, such as low-oxygen water or blood in the water, which trigger feeding frenzies.
Piraíba (Brachyplatystoma filamentosum) are known as the Goliath catfish. This colossal catfish is one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, capable of exceeding 2.5 meters and 200 kg. The danger lies not in intentional attacks, but in its tremendous brute force during the fight on the fishing line, capable of throwing a fisherman out of the boat or causing serious accidents with equipment.
Specialized Fish (the unusual dangers):
Candiru (Vandellia cirrhosa) are perhaps one of the most infamous fish in the Amazon. The candiru is a small parasitic catfish, almost transparent and about 2-3 cm long. The legend that it feeds on human tissue or "swims up urine streams" is a widely exaggerated myth.
The real danger, although extremely rare, lies in its biology: it is a hematophage (feeds on blood) that naturally navigates towards the gills of larger fish. In absolutely exceptional situations, it can enter and lodge itself in human orifices (urethra, vagina, anus), attracted possibly by a flow of water or other stimuli, not specifically by urine.
Removal, due to its rear-facing opercular spines, is complex and requires surgical intervention, making it a unique and psychologically terrifying danger.
Electric eel (Poraquê - Electrophorus electricus): The poraquê, which means "the one who paralyzes" in Tupi-Guarani, is one of the most extraordinary creatures in the river.
Despite the common name, it is actually a type of knifefish, not a true eel. Its true power lies in specialized organs that make up 80% of its body and can generate electric shocks of up to 860 volts – enough to stun a horse. It uses these discharges to hunt (electrocution), defend itself, and navigate (electrolocation).
The danger for fishermen is tangible: stepping on a poraquê in shallow waters or handling it with bare hands can result in an extremely painful shock that causes temporary respiratory arrest, loss of muscle control, and, in rare cases, drowning due to incapacitation.
Snakes
Anacondas (Eunectes murinus) are the heaviest snake in the world. Their presence is constant, but they are generally not aggressive towards humans. They prefer flooded environments (floodplains and streams) where they camouflage perfectly.
Jararacas and other vipers: Venomous snakes like the jararaca are a much more real and everyday danger than anacondas. Their camouflage is perfect among the leaves on the forest floor, making it essential to pay maximum attention to where you step when going ashore into the jungle.
Insects and Other Arthropods
Beyond disease-vector mosquitoes (dengue, malaria, yellow fever), the jungle is home to a multitude of other dangerous little inhabitants:
Ants: The bullet ant (Paraponera clavata) has a sting considered the most painful in the world among insects, according to the Schmidt Sting Pain Index. It’s described as a pure, intense and throbbing pain that can last for hours.
Spiders: The Brazilian wandering spider (Phoneutria spp.) is one of the most venomous spiders in the world, known for its aggressive defensive posture. Tarantulas, despite being large and frightening, generally have venom of low toxicity to humans, equivalent to a bee sting.
Scorpions, Wasps, and Hornets: The latter build hanging nests in trees and can attack in groups if they feel threatened, representing a real danger of multiple painful stings and allergic reactions.
In summary, the Amazon is an ecosystem of brutal beauty and power, where respect for the environment and knowledge of its inhabitants are the key to a safe and unforgettable experience.
BRANCHES: Even so, it’s worth it for you to kayak fish there?
ANDERSON: Absolutely. Kayaking is undoubtedly the best way to fully connect with this environment. You become completely immersed in nature, so close to the water that you can hear and observe every detail around you: the birds singing, the movement of fish swimming. It’s a complete sensory experience.
In a traditional motorboat, there’s always engine noise, vibration, or movement that scares the fish and breaks the magic of the place. In a kayak, there’s a silence that allows you to enter this world discreetly and harmoniously.
It reminds me of when I was fly fishing in Denmark, my first experience with artificial bait. We walked along the banks of a calm stream, observing everything: the insects, the vegetation, the life pulsating there. That closeness to the smallest details—the flowers, the animals, the sounds of the forest—is what turns fishing not just into an activity, but into a true immersion in nature.
And that’s exactly why I prefer kayaking. It’s not just about catching fish, but about being part of that ecosystem, even if only for a few hours.
BRANCHES: What’s the best way to protect yourself while you fish so you can still enjoy it?
ANDERSON: Protection begins with total awareness of your senses. In the Amazon, beauty conceals dangers, but even the smell of the wind or the sudden silence of animals can serve as a warning. Constant observation is the first layer of defense, from watching your step when disembarking to listening for unusual sounds in the water or the forest.
When navigating or dragging your kayak through flooded areas or the jungle, take extra care with the ground and vegetation: snakes, spiders, and even ants may be nearby. Wearing closed-toe, sturdy footwear and gloves when handling logs or vegetation is essential.
Basic knowledge of medicinal plants and natural resources can be a game-changer in unexpected situations. Knowing how to identify a tree that provides shelter or an herb with anti-inflammatory properties can be crucial in isolated scenarios.
Finally, respect wildlife behavior. Do not approach animals, even if they appear calm. And avoid fishing in areas with recent signs of predators, such as jaguar tracks or wasp nests. This way, you not only protect yourself but also deepen your connection with nature, turning caution into part of the adventure.
BRANCHES: Do you usually fish with others or alone?
ANDERSON: It really depends on the location and the level of risk involved. Generally, I prefer fishing alone in areas I know well. But if I realize a spot is particularly dangerous, I go alone precisely to avoid exposing others to unnecessary risks. Some environments demand extreme caution: you need to observe every move, watch your step, and remain fully aware of your surroundings.
I’ve been in situations where I brought along less experienced people, and that can become complicated. On top of focusing on fishing, I also have to worry about their safety.
That’s why I never go out without safety equipment and a basic first aid kit. In many of these remote areas, there’s no way to call for help, so you have to be prepared to act on your own if something happens.
That said, when I fish at lodges or resorts specialized in sport fishing, it’s a different story. These places have support infrastructure, trained staff, and radio or phone communication. In those situations, I feel more comfortable bringing others, even if they have less experience. The environment is controlled, but still lets you enjoy the thrill of fishing.
In the end, it all comes down to balance: knowing your limits, respecting nature, and never underestimating the dangers, whether you’re fishing alone or in a group.
BRANCHES: Do you use similar baits there in Brazil to what kayak anglers use up here in North America?
ANDERSON: Yes, we use some similar lures here, but with important adaptations for our reality. Established international brands like Rapala—well-known among North American anglers—are used here, but we need to reinforce them. Brazilian fish are extremely strong and aggressive, so we replace the original hooks with sturdier models. We often even use locally made materials to prevent them from bending or breaking during the strike.
Interestingly, many anglers from the United States who come to fish here end up using Brazilian national lures, specially designed for our species and fishing conditions. These lures generally feature action, colors and durability tailored to our rivers and fish, making them more effective in Brazilian waters.
As for equipment—rods, spinning reels, and baitcasting reels—most are imported. In my case, I’m a sponsored athlete by Shimano and part of the Shimano Pro Staff Brazil team, so I use top-tier equipment mostly manufactured in Japan. But I also use accessories and gear from other origins, such as Europe and the US. In the end, we put together a truly international kit, but always with a Brazilian touch in the choice of lures and fishing style.
BRANCHES: What do kayak anglers outside of Brazil need to know if they want to travel to fish in your area?
ANDERSON: If you plan to kayak fish here, you need to understand that the Amazon is not an ordinary destination—it’s a wild and unpredictable environment. Here are some essential points:
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Logistics and Local Guides—Do not come without prior contact with specialized guides or outfitters. Remote areas require in-depth knowledge of the rivers, currents, flood and dry seasons, and fishing spots. A local guide not only improves your chances of success but can also prevent dangerous situations.
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Adapted Equipment—Bring sturdy rods and reels, but be prepared to use reinforced lures and hooks here in Brazil. Fish like peacock bass, piraíba, and jaú require above-average gear. And never underestimate the importance of a complete first aid kit and satellite communication device.
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Safety First—Jaguars, caimans, and snakes are part of the ecosystem. Keep your distance, avoid fishing alone in isolated areas and always stay alert. Murky waters can hide dangers such as stingrays or even anacondas.
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Weather and Environmental Conditions—Be prepared for intense heat, high humidity, and sudden torrential rains. Light but protective clothing, insect repellent, and constant hydration are essential.
- Cultural and Environmental Respect—Many fishing areas are Indigenous lands or traditional communities. Respect local rules, do not leave trash behind and practice sustainable fishing. Release any fish you won’t consume.
Coming here is more than a fishing trip—it’s an expedition. Those who come prepared take home not only great catches but also an unforgettable experience of connecting with nature in its purest form.
If you need recommendations for guides or areas, I can help!
Our thanks to Anderson for his time and for sharing his wealth of experience and knowledge with our kayak fishing community! All photos and videos courtesy of Anderson Guedes.
To take him up on his offer to help with recommendations, connect with him on YouTube and Instagram.
What paddling questions can our friendly Customer Service team help you with? Contact us at 715-755-3405 or bbinfo@bendingbranches.com, or choose our online chat option.
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