Top 5 Hand-Tied Flies for Peacock Bass (Tucunaré) in South America
Fly fishing for peacock bass, also known as pavón or tucunaré, is one of the most thrilling experiences the South American jungle has to offer. Their explosive strikes, raw power, and aggressive hunting style turn every outing into a true adventure.
But not just any fly will do. To face this freshwater predator, you need patterns that are tough, durable, and realistic enough to trigger strikes from these giants.
In this article, you’ll discover the Top 5 hand-tied flies for peacock bass, all tested and proven in the rivers of the Orinoco and the Amazon, across Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, and the Guianas.
Why Choose Hand-Tied Flies for Peacock Bass?
Our handmade flies are not only stronger, tied with experience, but they also mimic local forage fish more accurately. Plus:
- They match the colors and prey of the Amazon and Orinoco.
- They can withstand the brutal hits and runs of peacock bass.
- They move naturally in clear, murky, or deep water.
At Orinoco Flies, we’ve spent more than 20 years fishing and tying flies specifically for peacock bass. Every pattern we recommend has been tested in real fishing conditions before making it into your fly box.
Top 5 Hand-Tied Flies for Peacock Bass
1. Slinky Red Tail, Olive Ararí
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Designed to imitate Amazonian and Orinoco basin baitfish with a flashy red tail. A match the hatch streamer fly that has proven to be a must in your box.
- Advantage: Durability, attractive + vibrant colors.
- Best use: Wide channels, creek mouths and lagoons.
2. Hp Small Peacock Bass Baitfish Fly
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Mimics a juvenile peacock bass — a natural and irresistible snack for the bigger ones, who never have a problem eating their own.
- Advantage: Realistic profile with lifelike movement.
- Best use: Pressured waters, lagoons, and flooded jungle creeks.
3. Diver – Gent Gray Baitfish
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A near-secret surface fly. Its subtle action makes it irresistible. Peacock bass can get picky and sometimes loud is not what they want.
- Advantage: Mimics an injured fish rising and diving.
- Best use: Lagoons and sandy beaches at sunrise or sunset.
4. Hp Muddler Blackened Baitfish
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A classic and versatile pattern. Can be any preyfish, Its natural silhouette makes it deadly.
- Advantage: Moves water, easily detected and/or seen by fish.
- Best use: Cloudy days, murky waters, or deep pools.
5. Slinky Black Tailed Minnow
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Proof that small details matter. The black tail — common among natural prey — seals the deal, over and over again.
- Advantage: Natural look and proven effectiveness on trophy bass.
- Best use: Works anytime, anywhere.
Tips to Maximize Your Catches
- Retrieve speed: Peacock bass love aggressive strips. Keep a steady “boom boom boom” rhythm — and if in doubt, speed it up!
- Recommended gear: Fast-action rods #8–#10.
- Lines: Sink tip 300–350 grains 6 ips for depth; floating lines for poppers and streamers.
- Leaders & tippets: Straight 40–50 lb for brute strength, or technical rigs with 20 lb tippets + 40–60 lb shock tippet.
- Colors: Dark for contrast, silver or gold for flash, naturals for realism, and bold tones when needed.
Final Thoughts
Fly fishing for peacock bass isn’t just a technique — it’s living the jungle at its wildest. Choosing the right fly can make the difference between a slow day and an unforgettable adventure.
At Orinoco Flies, every fly is tied by hand and tested in the same rivers that hold these powerful predators. Explore our catalog of streamers for peacock bass and get your flies shipped anywhere in the world
FAQs About Peacock Bass Flies
1. What’s the best fly for peacock bass in the Amazon or the Orinoco?
There isn’t a single “best” fly, since it depends on water conditions and fish behavior. However, patterns like the Slinky Red Tail and the Hp Small Peacock Bass Baitfish are highly effective in most South American fishing scenarios.
2. Which colors work best for tucunaré flies?
Dark tones (black and olive) create strong contrast in murky waters, while bright colors like red, chartreuse, and/or yellow stand out in clear, sunny conditions. Natural patterns with black-tail details — like the Slinky Black Tailed Minnow — are often deadly.
3. What gear do I need for peacock bass fly fishing?
We recommend a fast-action rod in #8–#10, sink tip lines of 300–350 grains for depth, and floating lines for poppers or divers. Leaders should be strong (40–50 lb) to handle the violent runs and strikes of peacock bass. Because a big peacock pulls very hard towards cover, usually snags, you must stop it and turn it’s head before he reaches the maze.
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