The Amazon Basin is the world's largest freshwater river system. It contains 10 percent of the world's fresh water and without question 20% of the world's toughest freshwater gamefish. The Amazon River starts high in the Andes mountains and flows to join the Negro River near Manaus to create the mingling of the waters. These two great systems combine to become a river that is 200 miles across in places and that runs all the way to the Atlantic Ocean to the city of Belem. It is the greatest riverine and rainforest ecosystems anywhere on the planet. It is a spectacle of nature in dire need of protection and appreciation by all. It is an experience not to be missed.

Brazil is the largest country in South America, and it contains most of the Amazon Rainforest. Manaus is the capital of the state of Amazonas and is the hub for peacock bass fishermen traveling to the Amazon. It is a city built upon the wealth of the forest. Its riches have faded since the days of the rubber barons, but the history architecture remains. It is well worth a day visiting the opera house and markets of the city.