Pirarucú – Amazon’s Giant Arapaima

Producer: Todd Moen

“Pirarucú is native term for arapaima, the ancient, air breathing, giant fish of Amazonian rivers and lakes. One of the largest freshwater fish in the world, the pirarucú can grow up to 10 feet long and can weigh up to 485 pounds. The pirarucú has been a very special fish for people in this region, and I was treated to an exceptional introduction to the fly fishing quest for this amazing and unique species. As a camera operator, I was challenged by the extremely hot temperatures and humidity, as well as by the abundance of wildlife, including insects, reptiles and predatory fish, who were ready to eat me if I was too lazy.”