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Other Large Cichlids
Oscar - Astronatus ocellatus
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Oscars
Several other "game" species of Cichlid are native to the Amazon
basin. The oscar (Astronatus ocellatus), known in Brazil
as 'cara acu' and as 'palometa in Spanish speaking countries, has become
common throughout the south Florida canal system, thanks to aquarist releases.
It is a very common native of Bolivia and is found in varying numbers in
central Amazonian black water. Oscars use their their flattened
round bodies to good advantage, generating surprising force for their size
as a rod and reel adversary. |
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Jacunda or Pike Cichlid
Jacundá (pike cichlid or mataguaro), are common in Amazonian
Brazil, Venezuela and Columbia. This smaller close cousin of
the peacock bass is represented in peacock waters by several species in
the genus Crenicichla. Although Crenicichla species
vary widely in coloration and markings, they are remarkably similar in
form and habit within central Amazonian waters. Although like oscars,
jacundá don't get terribly large (under 5-pounds) they'll sometimes
aggressively take many of the same black bass-sized lures and flies used
for peacocks.
Jacunda relate strongly to structure and strike very powerfully for
their size. They fight with strong, short runs and an intense, bulldog-like
style. On an ultralight casting/spinning rod or 5 - weight
fly-rod and floating line, both jacunda and oscars are great fun to catch. |
Jacunda - Crenicichla Sp  
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"Cara" - Smaller Cichlid Species
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Although not in a sport fishing
league with their larger cousins, a great variety of smaller species, collectively
called "cara" in Brazil, can be taken on rod and reel. Found most
often in sheltered lagoons, creeks and channels, these panfish sized species
are widespread, pugnacious and lots of fun on light tackle.
Although they have long been well- represented
in aquaria, the smaller cichlids of Amazonia are among the least known.
Genera are constantly being revised by both aquarists and scientists, while
every newly surveyed river system yields new species. The result
is a confusion of names, both local and scientific. Among the many
genera that may be encountered by anglers, especially with light fly rods,
are; Aequidens; Bujurquina; Chaetobranchus; Cichlasoma; Geophagus; Laetacara;
and Uaru. For those interested, even more genera can be viewed with
breadcrumbs in clear water by day or with a spotlight at night, including;
Heros; Mesonauta (festivum); Pterophyllum (angelfish); and Symphysodon
(discus); |
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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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