Rio São Francisco

Bahia / Minas Gerais, Brazil · Freshwater · Intermediate

Brazil's great inland river, running north through the semi-arid sertão. Big surubim catfish and dourado, with peacock bass established in the reservoirs along its length.

Getting there & access

The Minas Gerais state forestry institute (IEF-MG) says the piracema closed season on its rivers, including the Sao Francisco basin, runs from 1 November to 28 February. In that period fishing is prohibited except amateur fishing for non-native species and hybrids, and native fish caught by accident must be released. A current amateur fishing licence is required to carry fishing gear and catch. This describes the Minas Gerais side only; the Bahia bank is governed by Bahia rules. Check the current state and federal rules for the stretch you fish.

Access information source

Species

  • surubim catfish
  • dourado
  • tucunaré

Best times to fish

  • Dry season (Jun-Oct)
  • Dawn and dusk
  • Below the dams

Recommended gear

Essential

  • Medium-heavy baitcast outfit
  • Large plugs, jigs and live bait
  • Heavy leader
  • Sun protection

Optional

  • Boat and local guide
  • Insect repellent
  • Cool box

Regulations and requirements

  • Federal licença de pesca amadora required
  • Piracema closure runs roughly November to February on this river
  • Minimum sizes apply to surubim and dourado — check state rules

Rules change regularly — always confirm with the relevant fisheries authority before you fish.

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