Goiás has landscapes that are among the greatest spectacles on earth, a welcoming people, and is located right in the middle of Brazil, close to several destinations. The state is also popular among tourists who love sportfishing. Check it out!

Serra da Mesa

Located between mountains and ridges, the Serra da Mesa Lake is one of the largest artificial lakes in the world, perfect for recreational fishing, ecotourism, and water tourism. Serra da Mesa has become one of the best places for sportfishing for the “tucunaré” (peacock bass). The region is very popular among anglers using artificial lures.

Fun fact: the lake waters are alkaline, which makes the spread of mosquitoes and horseflies difficult, making the experience even more enjoyable. Fishing is the big attraction in the cities of Minaçu, Niquelândia and Uruaçu. In Minaçu, the activities include the Cana Brava Lake, where the “Praia do Sol” (Sun Beach) is located. The lakeshore can be reached through several points of the city and is perfect for leisure and fun during the day or night. In Uruaçu, tourists will find the Serra da Mesa Memorial, created to preserve part of the region’s history, in addition to promoting environmental education. There, visitors can also find the Praia Generosa (Generosa Beach), where they can enjoy tucunaré and tilapia ceviche at the local restaurants. Last but not least, the city of Niquelândia has specialized in nautical tourism and sportfishing, mainly for being home to the “tucunaré-azul” (blue peacock bass), while also offering amazing boat rides. It is also home to the Lago Azul (Blue Lake), which has an estimated depth of 300 meters and is an extremely popular place for snorkeling. In the region, visitors can also experience the pilgrimage of Nossa Senhora d’Abadia do Muquém as part of the local religious tourim and the Josephina’s gastronomic festival, which offers a menu with centennial recipes.

Paranaíba Lakes

A landscape of clear waters as far as the eye can see is what you get at the Paranaíba Lakes. Três Ranchos, São Simão and Catalão are municipalities rich in various forms of water tourism, precisely because of the lakes formed from the Paranaíba River. This feature made the region suitable for fishing, leisure activities, tours, and nautical tourism. Good for swimming and practicing sports, the Lago Azul (Blue Lake), which is home to a beach that extends for more than one kilometer, attracts tourists to São Simão. The city also contains the Itaguaçu Falls and the rapids of the Claro River. If you decide to go on a hike in the mountains, our tip is to admire the city from the Mirante do Cristo (Christ’s Viewpoint). In addition, the city of Catalão contains the Serra do Facão hydroelectric power plant, on the São Marcos River, with a flooded area of about 200 km², which makes the place ideal for sportfishing. There, tourists can also experience the “congadas” – a festivity that is part of a traditional folkloric and religious manifestation in Catalão, celebrated since 1876.

Corumbá Lake

Corumbá is well known for being an excellent spot for nautical tourism. Abadiânia, Alexânia and Luziânia are municipalities washed by the lake, which makes them ideal destinations for boat, motorboat and Jet Ski rides, besides being a great option to relax and enjoy the natural scenery. Due to the diversity of large fish in these waters, the lake is part of the Goiás Sport Fishing Circuit, which has achieved national recognition. Located in the oldest region of Goiás, where the history of the state began, these towns combine history, tradition, and stunning nature.

Abadiânia stands out for its architecture, spirituality, and for being the gateway to the Corumbá Lake. In Luziânia, the Fazendinha JK (JK Farm), where Juscelino Kubitschek, the ex-president of Brazil lived his last years, is popular among tourists. The Santa Luzia marmalade, a dessert recognized as one of Goiás’ cultural heritage items, is also a must-try when visiting the city. In addition, the local water park offers one of the biggest artificial beaches in Brazil. On the other hand, the city of Alexânia is another great destination for water tourism, while also offering the unique handicraft peaces produced in the Olhos d’Água district. To complete the list of local attractions, there are also farm hotels and resorts, as well as the local outlet mall, which has increased shopping tourism in the region.

Araguaia

Known as the freshwater beach of Goiás, the Araguaia River is an important tourist destination for the mid-year vacations, since the Araguaia Season lasts from June to September. It is during this time of year that the waters recede, favoring anglers and creating sandy beaches where nature lovers set up camp.

The Araguaia, which is more than two thousand kilometers long, passes through four Brazilian states and is home to rare species of fish, wild animals, and preserved vegetation.

Aruanã, Nova Crixás and São Miguel do Araguaia are municipalities washed by the river and are ideal for fishing. The combination of sun and beach attracts a large number of people to the region. Located in São Miguel do Araguaia, Luiz Alves is one of the best fishing destinations in Brazil because of the presence of the “piraíba” (kumakuma) – the freshwater giant – in its natural lakes. It is considered a true paradise for anglers. Campsites, hotels, lovely inns, and hotel boats are available for tourists in the region. During the vacation season, the place offers canoeing, camping, sports events, and shows for those who visit the region.

The city of Bandeirantes, located in the district of Nova Crixás, has white sand beaches and is the perfect destination for those who practice amateur fishing. Simple but charming, it attracts several tourists and offers an environmental diversity that is favorable to ecological and nautical tourism, as well as camping and hiking.

In Aruanã, the highlight goes to fishing, beaches and camping activities, which can range from simple to luxurious. River bathing, boat rides, and lots of nature are also part of the local attractions. During the Aruanã Season, which takes place annually, there are festivities on the beaches, musical shows and large events, in addition to the local camping sites. While visiting the region, you should definitely include a tour to the Karajá villages, where local indigenous people handcraft bracelets and necklaces made of beads, straw baskets and clay objects, especially the Ritxoco doll, considered a Brazilian Cultural Heritage item. The pieces are made by women who live in the region, in light ceramic, and painted with natural ingredients.

The sunset on the Araguaia River is of indescribable beauty, containing a wide variety of hues that color the sky and the water. Those who have had the chance to watch it can definitely say it is among the greatest spectacles on Earth!

Now that you know more about fishing tourism in the state of Goiás, all you need to do is plan your trip, pack your fishing gear, and come visit Brazil!