Fishing is a process that simply cannot be described in a few simple and concise phrases. It is a state of mind, a way of life, a rhythm that is ingrained in the subconscious and programs consciousness. It’s one thing if fishing is just a hobby, something an angler devotes a few hours to every couple of weeks. It’s entirely different when fishing becomes a part of life, where the angler constantly improves their technique, learns new things, discovers innovative styles and types of fishing, and travels not only to maintain spiritual balance and explore the unknown but also to search for and catch interesting new fish species in unique locations.
Yuriy Kostyantynovych has visited numerous places, bodies of water, and rivers, and among his trophies were various species of peaceful fish and predators. Now, we will tell you about the most exotic expeditions and the most interesting trophies encountered during these journeys.
BRAZIL AMAZON RIVER
The Amazon… It’s not just a river—it’s the river, the largest by length, basin area, and water volume. It flows through South America. The length of the Amazon is still being studied and calculated, a topic that remains a matter of debate within the scientific community. According to different measurements, the river’s length is as follows: from the source of the Marañón River—about 6,400 km, from the source of the Apacheta River—6,992 km, and from the source of the Ucayali River—about 7,100 km.
The Amazon, with its longest source, along with the Nile, contends for the title of the world’s longest river. The river and its basins are rich in flora and fauna. In this vast area, you can find over a million different species of plants and animals, which is why this region can rightly be called the world’s genetic repository.
Scientists estimate that for every 10 square kilometers of tropical forest, there are 1,500 species of flowers, 750 species of trees, 125 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, 150 species of fish, and countless invertebrates. Some of these species have not even been studied or identified. The primary goal of Yuriy Dyachenko’s travels while in South America was, of course, to catch peacock bass. The giant peacock bass is the largest of the entire family, living in the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in South America. It is also known as the speckled bass. The forehead of this fish protrudes slightly forward, unlike the appearance of its relatives. It comes in various color variations, from golden-olive to golden-brown. The gills have small black spots, and there are three parallel stripes along the sides that shorten as they approach the tail fin.
All spots on an adult fish become more distinct and noticeable. The giant bass, also known as the peacock bass, is a very serious and aggressive opponent. The older and larger it gets, the stronger and more resilient it becomes. The bass is capable of leaping high out of the water and will do anything to stay free. As Yuriy Kostyantynovych has repeatedly noted, the peacock bass is one of the most exciting trophies in sport fishing.
