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Peacock Bass ID Guide
Acute Angling Amazon Sportfishing—Science and Conservation section—Peacock Bass Species.
Rio Paru Peacock Bass
Note the unusually deep body of this large male specimen of the as- yet unidentified or undescribed Rio Paru peacock. This fish utilizes a wide range of habitats in fast water. Spawning pairs frequent quiet lagoons and off-river backwaters while hunting adults utilize even fast rapids. This peacock has similarities to C. thyrorus and C. vazzoleri, however, it shows some morphometric characters that differentiate it from those species. It appears to be most similar to, and may be C. jariina
ID Key:
| Bars and Markings | Colors | Size | Key Characters | Similar Species |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adults possess three blotchy, incomplete vertical bars Distinct dark markings on operculum. Juveniles marked with rows of horizontal white dots. | Body olive on dorsum, shading to gold on sides. Abdomen white. Lower fins yellowish with blue edges. | Juveniles: up to about 200mm (8 inches) Adults: from 200mm up to about 485mm (19 inches) |
Depth to length ratio: approx. 36% Lateral Line Scales: approx. 102 |
Appears to be most morphologically similar to C. jariina |
| Known Range | Behavior Notes | Habitat | Common Names | IGFA records |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Countries: Brazil. River Basins:Specimens are from the middle Rio Paru, above the principle waterfall, Cachoeiro Panama. |
Spawning fish are concentrated in lentic (still), back-water sections scattered along the main river. | The Rio Paru is a high gradient river adjacent to the Rio Jari. The population encountered here is deep-bodied and accesses even the faster waters. | None |
Fishing Tactics
Fish found in quiet backwaters are typically in various stages of spawning preparation or fry-guarding. Both pre-spawn and fry-guarding fish are readily taken on a variety of lures, including peacock rattle jigs, walking stick baits, swimming plugs and spoons. The large prop baits have not been shown to be effective here. When found in fast water, fish are generally feeding and are most readily taken with swimming baits such as Yo-zuri crystal minnows, smaller Rapalas (i.e.CD 11), etc. When in edge waters or bank structure, fish do not appear to be actively feeding but will opportunistically take baits appropriate to the access requirements; i.e, on sandbars or in still rocky structure, small surface plugs, especially Zara Spooks; in shallow quiet pools, small floating swimming plugs, such as 5" red-fin or jointed Rapala.
Although not as large as the giant lowlands peacocks (Cichla temensis), we have caught these fish up to 10 pounds. Because of their environment, they can present significant angling challenges. Spawners are often in very tight, small waters and can rapidly find their way into woody structure. Fast water feeders will readily use the current and their deep bodies to their advantage, augmenting their already powerful bodies.
Acute Angling organizes and operates trips to this fishery where, in addition to the peacock bass, anglers can encounter payara, exceptionally large pirapitinga, giant catfish (Jau, piraiba, pirarara, suribim), large pacu, large bicuda and other variety species.
Your Adventure Begins Here:
Contents
From 2003 Checklist
From 2006 Re-description
Unidentified Taxa
Additional Information
Find out about other Amazon fish groups:
When you Travel With Acute Angling, It's Much More Than Just Fishing
Imagine casting your line into the mysterious and beautiful black waters of the Brazilian Amazon. Then imagine the explosive strike of one of the biggest Peacock Bass you've ever seen. Then picture yourself fighting and landing the world's greatest freshwater gamefish and the trophy you've been dreaming of. Imagine doing this for days on end, without intrusive interruptions, or hurrying off because you've run out of time.
With Acute Angling, you can experience the ultimate in peacock bass fishing trips. For over fifteen years, Acute Angling has been providing the very best fishing excursions in South America.
We've done all the research so you don't have to. From start to finish, we are there every step of the way to make sure you have the best sportfishing experience of your lifetime. We are there fishing with you and we'll help with techniques, tackle tips, and a full array of extras not found with run-of-the-mill fishing travel agencies or other outfitters.
We've investigated and studied the regions we'll be taking you to, so our knowledge will help you have an unparalleled experience. Acute Angling handles your complete travel program…from air travel, to entry visa, to pre-trip preparation and even travel insurance. Combine that with our specialized tackle packages and you'll have nothing to worry about except catching trophy peacock bass. Let us handle the details.
Now, just imagine it one more time: Holding up that incredible peacock bass that YOU wrestled out of the wild jungle-framed waters. Taking the photo and then releasing the beautiful animal back to the wild. Doesn't that feel good?
Let Acute Angling take you on the fishing trip of a lifetime!
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