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For much more information about these big cats, see our new and expanded
Angler's Guide to Amazon Catfish
The giant piraiba is a fast and powerful adversary
on rod and reel.
Catfish Diversity
It's estimated that over 2800 species of fish occur in the
Amazon. The order Siluriformes (catfish) is the second most
diverse and probably the most spectacular group of Amazon species.
With 15 families, including about 1300 species, the Amazon accounts for
almost half of all the catfish species in the world. Anglers pursue
giant species of the Family Pimelodidae.
Red-Tailed Catfish grow large (Phractocephalus
hemioliopterus)
And are a favorite of Amazon peacock bass
anglers.
Although, big cats can tolerate handling, like this weighing,
they must be carefully released in calm waters after a long battle.
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There are countless species of
catfish throughout the Amazon basin (actually, about 1300). They range
in size from the diabolical candirú (Pygidiidae), a tiny
parasitic catfish that lodges itself in the urethral openings of other
fish or animals (or occasionally, even humans) to the monstrous piraiba
(Brachyplatystoma filamentosum), which has been reported to grow
over 9-feet long and weigh in excess of 450-pounds).
Among the most pursued of the giants (above) is
the brutish jau (Zungaro zungaro ). A heavy bodied linebacker
of a fish, the jau is surprisingly mobile (it is a common migrator) and
agile (wait till you've got one on the end of your rod). These bareknuckle
fighters have been estimated to exceed 200 lbs. and will wear the arms
off of even the most determined anglers. They are experts at utilizing
current and will lead anglers on a merry chase through rapids and waterfalls
before giving you the satisfaction of bringing them to the boat.
The aforementioned piraiba is bigger yet.
Longer, slimmer and more acrobatic than the jau, they have been known to
jump; a very un-catfishlike behavior. Imagine 7-foot of catfish launching
itself into the air! These creatures are not easy to bring to the
boat.
Pirarara (Phractocephalus hemeliopteris) is
an extremely husky catfish characterized by its striking black, white and
red coloration. Its bony head and forequarters allows
it to dominate river bottoms with no fear of predation. Although
not an athletic performer on rod and reel, it is a tough bulldog-like fighter
that doesn't quit until it's exhausted enough to have to leave the bottom.
The question is , will you have enough stamina to fight it out.
Cut or whole bait, fished deep on a 14/0 circle
hook is deadly for all three of these giant species. A stout offshore
rod/reel combo spooled with heavy braid is recommended. These monsters
can literally tow a 16-foot boat upstream!
There are even several Amazonian catfish that
have been known to take a fly, including several species collectively
called bagre rayado (Pseudoplatystoma sp.). It is important
to note that these catfish are nothing like our local 'cats' which tend
to be bottom-feeding and rather lethargic. Many of the larger species
of Amazonian catfish are migratory, extremely active and aggressive predators
that live in fast water and actively feed with the other previously-mentioned
gamefish. Pound for pound, these 'cats' are as strong - if not stronger
- than any fish you'll encounter on a rod and reel.
For much more information about these big cats, see our new and expanded
Angler's Guide to Amazon Catfish
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The jau is a strong and determined fighter that uses
the current.
The golden catfish, Dourado, (Brachyplatystom arouseauxii),
Sorubim display bright markings.
Even baby piraiba are impressive.
 Jau have enormous mouths.
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For more information about
available fishing trips for peacock bass, payara or other exotic species, contact
us , Toll-free, at;
Paul Reiss:
- 866 832-2987 - E-Mail Paul Reiss - or:
Garry Reiss:
- 866 431-1668 - E-Mail Garry Reiss
We are pleased
to be able to arrange trips to the right place at the right time, anywhere
in the world, with the most reputable, professional outfitters. References
are available upon request.
Copyright © 2008 Paul Reiss
All Rights Reserved
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