If you follow my blogs, you already know that there are 15 different types of Peacock Bass all over Brazil. Also, you should know that Peacock Bass is not a "Bass" per se; they are part of the Cichlidae family (thus, more closely related to the Tilapias). Outside of Brazil, you may find a few Peacock Bass species, including in the USA and in Asia.
From all 15 species, the Peacock Bass Temensis (Açu) is by far the most popular, and the lifetime dream of every angler. People from all over the world will travel to the Brazilian Amazon to catch an Açu. Even among the Brazilians, fishing lovers will book a trip to the Amazon every one or two years to go after these beautiful beasts. The Açu is not only colorful and furious, but also the largest on all Peacock Bass species; it can reach 30 lbs and 30+ inches.
Foto: Angler Diovanne "GG"
Having said that, the second most popular Peacock Bass in Brazil, and pretty much a stranger in other places of the world, is the Peacock Bass Azul (Blue). Its popularity in Brazil has little to do with how widespread it is across all regions of Brazil, and lots to do with how fun it is to catch them without the need of the heavy tackle used for the Açus. The Azul (Cichla "Piquiti") is beautiful in its own ways, sporting several black stripes (5 to 7) on its sides and with lots of shades of olive-green and blue all over it, but mainly on the dorsal, fins and tail. Some of them have a very dark face, which we call "cara preta" in Portuguese; adding to its character. The "Azul" can reach up to 16lb and 20+ inches, depending where you go.
One fun characteristic of the Azul is that it never gives up on a chase. Some fish will chase a bait once or twice before giving up, the Azul is way more persistent and may chase the bait until it finally gets it, sometimes only a few feet away from you.
Now, that you have been properly introduced to this blue beast, the little brother of the Açu, perhaps you think about it when travelling to Brazil. The Azul is found in many locations in Brazil, but there are some places where they are so wild that they will run with the line on their backs and leave you with your mouth open. Contact us for more information.