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Fish Species
Fish Species
Images are from other sources in the web and are being used to show primarily the physical characteristics of these game fish.
Characiformes-
-Payara, or Pez Cachorro-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Characiformes
Family: Cynodontidae
Genus: Hydrolycus
Scientific name: Hydrolycus scomberoides
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
The Payara has a silvery elongated body, built for negotiating strong currents and speed. It is covered in very small scales, and displays a black marking around the operculum and the edge of the caudal fin. Its most noticeable features are its well-armed jaws, containing several long teeth and 2 distinctive fangs that can reach lengths of up to 4-6 inches! It uses these fangs to thrash their way around schools of fish, injuring and impaling them, to then devour them whole. This fish is aggressive and a brutal attacker of prey (or lures/flies). It is strictly piscivorous or ichthyophagous, meaning they feed on fish only. They have very bony jaws, and is at first quite difficult to succeed in a proper hook set. They inhabit fast moving water, strong currents, and whirling eddies near mouths of clear to slightly stained water rivers. Mostly caught in currents in open water, but can be found around adjacent structure as well.
Size/weight ranges-
Can reach up to 117cm long, but average lengths are closer to 40-50cm. They can range anywhere between 5lbs to 40lbs.
Tackle suggestions-
In order to land this game-fish, who’s struggle has been compared to the way a tarpon gives battle, you will need at least a medium-light, to medium-heavy gear. A sturdy rod is required to make a good hook set, and braided 65lb test line is recommended.
Fast action, shallow, medium diving and top-water lures are successful in sizes of 3-6inches. Bright colors such as silver, gold, white and red, or chartreuse work well.
-Machete or cachorra-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Characiformes
Family: Cynodontidae
Genus: Rhaphiodon
Scientific name: Rhaphiodon vulpinus
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
The machete is very similar in appearance to the payara. Its mouth is at a slightly lesser angle and the distinctive fangs are smaller. Overall, it is also a smaller species than the payara. However, it does not lack the aggressiveness and voracity, hitting lures just as hard for its size. It is also strictly piscivorous and inhabits similar areas of the river, only often times it is also caught in lakes and lagoons, especially along structure.
Size/weight ranges-
Can reach lengths of 60cm, but on average ranges between 30-45cm. They can weigh anywhere between 1lb to 8lbs.
-Pacu, pirapitinga or red-bellied pacu-
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Characiformes Family: Characidae
Genus: Piaractus, Colossoma
Piranhas can be silver with dark spots, dark gray with red eyes, white and silvery, and bluish gray in color with red bellies. However, they are most easily distinguished by their rows of razor sharp teeth, and menacing look in their eyes. For the most part they are schooling fish, gathering in large numbers. Most species are carnivorous, (some omnivorous) and can finish off an animal to the bone when conditions are right. They are mostly opportunists, taking advantage of an injured or struggling animal, helplessly bleeding in the river. They serve as the cleaners of the river, making quick work of any fleshed creature that happens to perish in the water. A ubiquitous fish in the Amazon basin, piranhas are an important source of protein for people living around these rivers, as well as for the wildlife.
is a fish very resistant to anoxic conditions. Virtually every form of structure on the river or lagoon shore will hold Benton. They hide around logs and fallen trees, at drop offs, steep banks, shallow sandy shores, around vegetation, etc. Their vicious and carnivorous nature makes them a relatively easy fish to entice, but also challenging to land. They will jump repeatedly and thrash their heads vigorously to try and free themselves.
Classification:
The dorado has been often referred to as the “tigre de rio” or jaguar of the river to be more accurate. They possess a bright golden coloration, accented by rows of tiny small back dots running along their powerful streamlined bodies. Their fins have a bright red coloration and the caudal fin has a black bar along the middle through the caudal peduncle. Their massive jaws are equipped with rows of razor sharp pointy teeth, living up quite accurately to its local nickname. 
Classification:
Size/weight ranges-
Tackle suggestions-
Classification:
Size/weight ranges-
Tackle suggestions-
Classification:
The red tail catfish is a powerful stocky fish. It possesses a hard bony head, and hard plates behind its head. They have large fan-shaped fins, and a strong tail. Usually, they are of a dark olive to grayish brown coloration dorsally, with small black dots all over. Ventrally they are white to ivory color, and have a dark belly the same color as their dorsal side. The tail is distinctively bright red, as well as the very tips of the rest of the fins. These fish are stocky brutes, having great strength, and they produce a loud grunt when stressed out. The general is an opportunistic feeder as much as it can be a roving predator, and is typically known for its very strong and abrupt runs.
Size/weight ranges-
Tackle suggestions-
Size/weight ranges-
Tackle suggestions-This catch will surely be the pinnacle of your Amazon angling experience, and as such, will require the most heavy and resistant tackle available. Extra-extra-heavy tackle, 150-200lb test braided line, leaders to match, large weights (depending on current strength), and heavy gauge big game 10-12/0+circle hooks are the norm for this species; anything less and you will find yourself defeated. These fish are not only incredibly strong and fast, but also utilize the current to their advantage, allowing them to strip off hundreds of feet of line in a short moment. These predators will hit any large baitfish, especially a large sabalo, or a large chupa or bagre catfish, and although dead bait works, live bait always works better to entice this beast of a cat. Casting your bait into the deepest hole or a fast flowing deep channel in the river is the first part. Then patience and attention to your rod, for you may be holding on for dear life in the most anticipated moment of your life.
This giant catfish can be caught in two color phases; petroleum green or lighter (muturo), and can also be of bright yellow coloration, when they are referred to as “amarillo”. Some display very faint dark spots along the body, and others are solid color. They have huge gaping mouths and accommodate large plates of tiny sharp teeth used to secure prey, as is the norm for most large Amazonian catfishes. Heavier than longer, these fish are stocky, and can achieve huge sizes. They are carnivorous, attacking prey such as smaller catfishes and sabalo baitfish, or boga. They are found in rivers and dwell in the deep holes formed by large eddies or deep holes around rocks and boulders. They are found in stained and clear water rivers.
Size/weight ranges-
Classification:
Genus: Sorubim
Classification:
Size/weight ranges-
Size/weight ranges-
Size/weight ranges-
Tackle suggestions-
The corvina displays a beautiful arrangement of silvery small scales. They resemble a croaker or freshwater drum. They have a large mouth lined with sharp teeth. This species occupies very diverse habitats. Improved osmo-regulatory abilities enable this species to tolerate higher salinities and therefore can carry out its biological cycle in freshwater (as well as in brackish water). Juveniles feed on larvae of crustaceans, aquatic insects and copepods. Adults are almost strictly piscivorous (preying on fish). They are captured mainly during the rainy season. During dry season they can be found around overhanging trees, drop offs and sometimes shallow sandy bottoms. Often times they can be heard “croaking”, a sound amplified by the hull of the boats. They are a highly prized food fish, and also put on a good fight for the lucky angler.
Size/weight ranges-
These are very laterally flattened fish, same body shape as the pacu, which allows this fish to put up a good fight. They have a protruding jaw and will suck in their prey, making them exceptional hitters on top water lures. Their pectoral fins, dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are all enlarged. This body type is typical of an ambush predator. They are varied in coloration, but range from black to very dark brown or green. The ventral area and extremities are highlighted in a bright orange hue. Usually they display a black and orange outlined spot near the base of the caudal peduncle on both sides, referred to as an ocellum. They have large eyes and a matching acute vision. It can reach short bursts of incredibly fast and accurate attacks, on the unsuspecting prey or well-presented lure/fly. This species inhabits shallow and calm mud-bottomed and sand-bottomed streams and lagoons/ponds. They feed on small fish, crayfish, worms and some insect larvae. Every so often they may even get a chance at a small reptile or amphibian. They typically suspend right below the surface of shallows along the banks of the river/lagoon, waiting to ambush their prey
The tucunare is golden/yellow and/or greenish in color, sometimes displaying black bars down its sides, brightly colored fins and an ocellum (dark spot surrounded by gold ring) by the base of the caudal fin that gives it its English name, peacock bass. During the periods leading up to and during the reproductive season, males develop a large hump on the head. They have a large protruding mouth, with which they swallow prey whole (strictly carnivorous). They are ambush predators and will hide among structure and vegetation, often times in groups of 2-30 individuals. When their fry hatch, they are kept within the male parent’s mouth, when the developed hump of males comes into play, and serves as nutritive reserves of lipids (fats) for the fasting male. They are very territorial and protect their young with extreme aggression, even attacking intruders (lures and flies) just to get them to go away. They are by far the most popular game fish of the Amazon, and although not as big as their Brazilian cousins, are found in healthy populations and more importantly unmatched numbers here in the Bolivian Amazon.
Tackle suggestions-
Classification:
This is the largest species of scaled freshwater fish in the world. The arapaima has very large and rough scales covering its body. The body tapers towards the head, ending in a narrow ossified skull. The dorsal and anal fins are located posteriorly, sitting far back on the body with the caudal fin. They have an overall greenish/gray to olivaceous coloration dorsally, and possess, on the ventral and posterior parts of the body, bright red highlights on their huge scales. They are members of the order osteoglossiformes, or ossified-tongued fish (bony tongue). They use their bony plates at the roof of their mouths to crush their prey before swallowing them whole. Pirarucu or paiche, are massive fish, designed to be ambush predators, and have the ability to survive in highly anoxic waters (low-oxygen). They can obtain oxygen not only from the water through use of their gills, but also from the air inhaled into their modified swim bladder. They are strictly carnivorous, and are able to secure prey such as small mammals, reptiles and birds that are unfortunate enough to be caught close to the water.
Classification:
This species puts up a good fight initially, but its shape and ability to use suction is the real reason for its challenging fight. Medium heavy to extra heavy rods are recommended, as well as a powerful bait casting or spinning reel. 100lbs test line or greater is needed, as well as matching steel leaders in the 90lbs+ test range. Heavy gauge circle hooks are a must. This fish will pursue live or cut bait, and will commonly take it without warning and sit motionless, chewing and swallowing it without taking off. It will then move away slowly, generally by that time having swallowed your entire rig all the way in. They tend to dive quickly and do everything in their power to suck onto the bottom substrate, making it extremely difficult to pull them out. It is important to not let them drop to the bottom and get stuck, forcing you to keep the fish coming and steering it away from the bottom with relentless effort. This is much easier said than done, since to catch this fish you will need to cast straight to the bottom of eddies or drop offs, with a heavy weight to keep it there when needed. Needless to say, it is strongly encouraged that you leave the handling of this fish to us, considering its potential for an EXTREMELY painful sting.
Scientific name: Piaractus brachypomus, Piaractus mesopotamicus, Colossoma brachypomum
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-When mature, these fish can range from a silvery gray, to yellowish ventrally, and a dark gray to dark silvery dorsal region. C. brachypomum will have the distinctive red in the belly. They are large and oval shaped, able to negotiate strong currents. Being an omnivore, it possesses strong robust teeth and jaws, used to crack nuts from falling fruit. These fish are present around overhanging fruiting trees, and deep pools and eddies. They will go slightly carnivorous during the dry season, chasing baitfish, insects and taking advantage of any carrion that becomes available.
Size/weight ranges-
Classification:
Size/weight ranges-
They can measure up to 50cm and weigh anywhere between 6-25lbs.
Tackle suggestions-
Medium to medium heavy tackle is needed to land these fish. They are very good fighters, using their shape to their advantage, putting up a tremendous fight. Minimum of 80lb test braided line is needed, and a big-game 6-8/0 circle hook. Pacu will take native nuts (totai, motacu, etc.) and local fruits (bibosi figs, etc.) as well as some dough baits. Live or dead (but whole) sardine also works depending on the season. In both cases, a nice floater placed about 1.5-2mts from your bait improves chances of a hit. They will go after small to medium sized rattletraps, crank baits, and shallow diving baits as well as flies (streamers and fig fruit) during the dry season, when fruiting trees are scarce.
-Tambaqui, or black pacu-
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Characiformes
Family: Characidae
Genus: Colossoma
Size/weight ranges-
Scientific name: Colossoma macropomum
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
The tambaqui is dark in coloration, ranging from black to dark gray. They have a wavy line along the lateral line area, usually separating 2 different tones of color (darker and lighter). Body size and head are much larger than the pacu or red-bellied pacu, and feed on the same fruits and seeds throughout the river and flooded jungles. For this reason, they frequent water close to fruiting trees and also in large swirls/eddies in deep water. Tambaqui are omnivores, also resorting to some carnivorous behavior during the dry season.
These fish can be up to 60cm in length and weigh a whopping 30-40kgs (66-88lbs).
Tackle suggestions-
Heavy to extra-heavy tackle is needed for these brutes. At least 100lb test braided line so that you don’t break off easily, and a 6-8/0 big-game circle hook. They make multiple runs, and have incredible stamina, so a pair of gloves and a comfortable fishing belt might come in handy. For bait, native nuts (totai, motacu, etc.) and local fruits (bibosi figs, etc.) as well as some dough baits seem to work the best. Live or dead (but whole) sardines also work. In both cases, a nice floater placed about 1.5-2mts from your bait improves chances of a hit. Lures and flies are the same as for the pacu, and red-bellied pacu.
-Pirañas or palometas-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Characiformes
Family: Characidae
Genus: Serrasalmus, Pristobrycon, Pygocentrus and Pygopristis
Scientific names: Serrasalmus maculatus, S. marginatus, S. eigenmanni, S. rhombeus, P. nattereri.
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
Piranhas can be silver with dark spots, dark gray with red eyes, white and silvery, and bluish gray in color with red bellies. However, they are most easily distinguished by their rows of razor sharp teeth, and menacing look in their eyes. For the most part they are schooling fish, gathering in large numbers. Most species are carnivorous, (some omnivorous) and can finish off an animal to the bone when conditions are right. They are mostly opportunists, taking advantage of an injured or struggling animal, helplessly bleeding in the river. They serve as the cleaners of the river, making quick work of any fleshed creature that happens to perish in the water. A ubiquitous fish in the Amazon basin, piranhas are an important source of protein for people living around these rivers, as well as for the wildlife.
Size/weight ranges-
Some species can reach up to 40cm in length, and weigh from about 2-6.5lbs.
Tackle suggestions-
Light to medium tackle is perfect for these species, which still put up a tremendous fight for their size, making relentless runs and head thrashes. Braided line between 20-65lb is ideal for these fish, and of course, a wire leader. They are found throughout the rivers and lakes, and are mainly caught with a small hook, and meat. Small and large lures will also land these fish, who may be brought in on a lure their size or bigger! Mainly silvery, gold, red, and white color patterns work best, but most other color patterns work well for this voracious species. However, hard baits are advised, since their teeth make quick work of most any other lures.
-Yatorana-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Characiformes, Family: Characidae
Genus: Holobrycon
Scientific name: Holobrycon pesu
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
The yatorana is a schooling fish, but can be found individually along the river shores. It is similar to the dorado in feeding behavior and habitat requirements, which is why they often share the same waters. The yatorana is a piscivore, feeding on small invertebrates and baitfish. It is a silvery fish, with an olivaceous tinge dorsally and a shade of black on the ventral posterior end of the body. The extremities of the fins are all a pale reddish color. These fish are built for speed and fast water, so they will be found in fast flows and rapids, eddies and around structure on the shoreline. These are very acrobatic fish, jumping and clearing water repeatedly before being landed.
Size/weight ranges-
This species can reach lengths of up to 50cm and up to 5kg (11lbs).
Tackle suggestions-
These fish are very fun on light and medium tackle. As always, 65lb test braided line and a steel leader to match is required. These fish chase lures similar to the ones for payara, dorado, and peacocks, only slightly smaller. Usually they are found in eddies and fast flows, especially around rocky structure, creating a perfect hideout for these medium sized predators. Fallen trees and other structure along fast flowing current are also considered good spots to cast to. Being a species of schooling fish, hooking on one usually means more action to come. They also go after live bait, such as sardines, sabalina, and other minnow-like baitfish.
-Benton, Trairao or wolfish-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Characiformes
Family: Erythrinidae
Genus: Hoplias
Scientific name: Hoplias malabaricus, Hoplias lacerdae
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
Benton are a ubiquitous species of fish in the Amazonian waters. These fish are piscivorous and will also eat small invertebrates and vertebrates that happen to fall helplessly in the water. They have huge gaping mouths, armed with very sharp and pointy teeth. These are covered by a membrane or sheath, and the slime secreted by it increases the painful experience when bitten by one. These fish are elongated and essentially cylindrical in shape. They are speckled dorsally and have a black band running down the center of their bodies. Benton can be of a number of different color morphs, essentially the same patterning just different tones of black, green and grey. They are white or cream colored ventrally. The fins are fan-like and large and the paddle-like caudal fin is the largest. This fish is built as an ambush predator, and behaves as such, living strictly in slow moving to even stagnant water. It
is a fish very resistant to anoxic conditions. Virtually every form of structure on the river or lagoon shore will hold Benton. They hide around logs and fallen trees, at drop offs, steep banks, shallow sandy shores, around vegetation, etc. Their vicious and carnivorous nature makes them a relatively easy fish to entice, but also challenging to land. They will jump repeatedly and thrash their heads vigorously to try and free themselves.
Size/weight ranges-
Some members of this group can reach lengths of 65cm and weigh up to 6kg (13.2lbs). Averages are 35-45cm and 2-4kg.
Tackle suggestions-
The Benton will put your gear to the test. Spinning or bait-casting medium to medium-light tackle is most sporting for this species. Due to the heavy structure of their habitat, and the fact that they are hard fighters with very sharp teeth, it is essential to use steel leaders and at least 65lb test braided line. These predators will attack all kinds of lures and live/dead bait. Top water and shallow diving swim baits work exceptionally. Red and white, silver, and clown colors are most effective. Rooster tails and spinner baits also do the trick. Often times, these fish will inhale your lure or bait as soon as it hits the water, so it is important to be ready for a good hook set at all times. One of the more entertaining ways to catch this fish, is throwing small poppers or top water frogs and watch the water explode as they attack your lure!
-Dorado or Golden Dorado-
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Characiformes, Family: Characidae
Genus: Salminus
Scientific Name: Salminus maxillosus
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
The dorado has been often referred to as the “tigre de rio” or jaguar of the river to be more accurate. They possess a bright golden coloration, accented by rows of tiny small back dots running along their powerful streamlined bodies. Their fins have a bright red coloration and the caudal fin has a black bar along the middle through the caudal peduncle. Their massive jaws are equipped with rows of razor sharp pointy teeth, living up quite accurately to its local nickname. 
Size/weight ranges-
Dorado can reach upwards of 100cm in length and weigh as much as 45lbs (20.5kgs), more commonly in the 15-25lbs range.
Tackle suggestions-
This fish is a fighter, and requires medium to medium-heavy gear. Minimum of 65lb braided line is recommended, and at least a 45lb test steel leader. They are powerful strikers, and very acrobatic, which make them difficult to land. Sharp hooks and a good hook-set are essential. Silver or golden spoons and spinner work great. Tuvira and simbau (live bait) work very well in turbid, stained water. Colorful hard baits such as crank baits and swim baits work well in clearer water, best in silver/blue, red/white, clown, minnow, and other attractive colors/ patterns. Strong hooks are required, as they frequently bend and break them. As with most Amazonian fish, caution is recommended when handling them, their powerful jaws can give a painful and serious bite. Best places to cast into are eddies and down-current of rocks and other structure in fast moving water. Also, deeper pools right after a set of rapids. River mouths and creek mouths are also great spots to cast for large specimens awaiting their prey. Aggressive and slashing retrieves work well to attract the voracious attention of this beast of a game fish. Bolivia boasts some of the best and healthiest population of this species.
-Boga or piavucu-
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Characiformes
Family: Anostomidae
Genus: Leporinus
Scientific name: Leporinus macrocephalus, Leporinus elongatus
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
Boga can be of a silvery/yellowish golden color, and have black markings along both sides of the body. They have downward facing mouths, and teeth that look like human dentition. The ends of fins are highlighted in yellow/gold. They are found in deep holes, large deep eddies, and sometimes shallow sandy bottoms. Boga look very similar to sabalo, a common and highly important baitfish in the rivers of Bolivia, and are many times confused. Boga will feed on small crustaceans, aquatic insects, and carrion, while sabalo are planktivorous (feeding on plankton, copepods and other microscopic crustaceans in the water column).
Size/weight ranges-
Can reach up to 40cm in length, and weights of up to 8lbs (~4kgs)
Tackle suggestions-
Clupeiformes-
-Sardinon or Sardinata, baby tarpon-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Clupeiformes, Family: Pristigasteridae Genus: Pellona
Scientific name: Pellona castelnaeana
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
This species is related to the tarpon, herring and other Clupeids. It has the same upwards-facing mouth as the tarpon, and same body shape. Its body is mainly golden colored throughout the body and various iridescent silvers and blues on the back portion. Mature specimens have a bright red coloration on the extremities of fins and black markings on the caudal fin. It can travel in schools in the open water and in eddies or gather around the shoreline structure as individuals.
Size/weight ranges-
This species can reach 60cm in length and weigh up to 8kg (17lbs).
Tackle suggestions-
Medium-light to medium tackle is perfect for the sardinon. A minimum of 30lb test braided line is recommended. They will take lures and flies similar to the ones used for machete and peacocks. Casting into whirling currents and mouths of rivers are productive, as well as shoreline structure such as fallen trees and among vegetation.
Siluriformes-
-Surubi or striped catfish/tiger shovelnose catfish and simicuyo catfish-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Siluriformes, Family: Pimelodidae
Genus: Pseudoplatystoma
Scientific name: Pseudoplatystoma corruscans, P. fasciatum, P. magdaleniatum, P. tigrinum
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
This has to be one of the most beautifully patterned catfish in the world. Species of Pseudoplatystoma have black markings as either vertical lines, a maze of lines, or spots. They are on the dorsal side of the body, which is typically a bluish gray, and sometimes darker gray coloration. The ventral side of the body is white, sometimes showing some accents of pinkish red on the extreme of the lower body fins. Their rostrum is elongated, in a shovel like shape, with the eyes located on the upper side. They are very “shark-looking”, and actually are voracious roving predators.
Size/weight ranges-
In Bolivia, this species of catfish can reach up to 40kgs (88lbs) and 1.5 meters in length, although more commonly caught in the 10-30kg range.
Tackle suggestions-
This game fish is known for its long and ferocious runs. It is a specialist at tangling up in structure. With that said, it is important to have medium-heavy to heavy equipment, with good drag and reel speed capabilities. The rod needs to be on the stiff side, and very resistant. 100-150lb test braided line is recommended with at least a 90-100lb test steel leader. The strain put on equipment is exceptional, having to negotiate abrasive structure, force of current and fish, as well as their teeth. It is mostly recommended to bring the fish in quickly so as to limit its chances to run into heavy structure and break off. These fish are mostly found in deep pools, eddies, river mouths and in low water levels can be caught in shallow sandy bottoms near river beaches. It is possible to catch them with swim baits, in red/white and realistic patterns, but mostly takes to live or cut bait.
-General, coronel or red-tailed catfish-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Siluriformes, Family: Pimelodidae Genus: Phractocephalus
Scientific name: Phractocephalus hemioliopterus
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
The red tail catfish is a powerful stocky fish. It possesses a hard bony head, and hard plates behind its head. They have large fan-shaped fins, and a strong tail. Usually, they are of a dark olive to grayish brown coloration dorsally, with small black dots all over. Ventrally they are white to ivory color, and have a dark belly the same color as their dorsal side. The tail is distinctively bright red, as well as the very tips of the rest of the fins. These fish are stocky brutes, having great strength, and they produce a loud grunt when stressed out. The general is an opportunistic feeder as much as it can be a roving predator, and is typically known for its very strong and abrupt runs.
Size/weight ranges-
This species can reach 1.5mts in length and upwards of 45kgs (99lbs)
Tackle suggestions-
It is important to have heavy to extra-heavy gear for this species, as they will easily put your rod and drag to the ultimate test. Large gauge circle hooks, a stiff rod, 150lb test braided line, 90-100lb steel leaders, and a large weight is needed to pursue these big boys. These Amazonian bullies prefer live and cut bait, and are most commonly found in deep holes, river and creek mouths, sudden drop offs, and steep deep banks. When pursuing these fish, it is critical to remain alert, as the explosive run may take your rod off your hands! They are experts at breaking off in heavy structure, so a quick retrieve is best to secure your trophy for pictures.
Bagre dorado, dourada or gilded catfish-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Siluriformes
Family: Pimelodidae
Genus: Brachyplatystoma
Scientific name: Brachyplatystoma rousseauxii, B. flavicans
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
This is a member of the large catfishes of the Amazon basin. It has an overall golden yellow color, darker and somewhat olive shaded dorsally. The tail is deeply to moderately forked. Behavior is similar to the piraiba and muturo, dwelling in the deep holes and eddies of rivers, as well as their fast flowing deep channels. They are considered roving predators, and are very active in capturing larger baitfish and small catfish species. They are powerful swimmers and put up a long and challenging fight. The bagre dorado is usually found in stained water rivers of the Amazon River tributaries.
Size/weight ranges-
Known to reach 1.5meters in length and over 50kgs (110lbs).
Same tackle as used for muturo, piraiba and red tailed catfish. Extra heavy tackle, 150lb test braided line minimum, steel leaders to match and heavy gauged circle hooks. They will take live or dead bait, such as the sabalo and boga, but also the simbau and chupa catfishes. To pursue this highly sought after fish, you must cast your line in the deepest pools and eddies, adjacent to the faster current. These fish put up a tremendous fight and are very challenging to land, as they will use the current to their advantage. Bringing them in as fast as possible is recommended, as they take to structure quickly and are prone to breaking off.
-Piraiba or freshwater bacalao-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Siluriformes, Family: Pimelodidae
Genus: Brachyplatystoma
Scientific name: Brachyplatystoma filamentosum
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
This is the largest freshwater “scale-less” fish in the Western hemisphere. It has a very streamlined body, almost shark-like in appearance. They are gray to bluish dorsally, and white ventrally. They have long barbels sometimes reaching up to or past their dorsal and/or caudal fins. Piraiba have a moderate to deeply forked caudal fin. This is clearly a powerful roving predator, carnivorous, able to chase down and devour large prey in strong currents, sometimes even taking the occasional unfortunate monkey or wading bird trying to cross a waterway. These fish dwell in the deep, fast flowing water, clear and stained. Deep eddies and deep muddy or sandy bottoms harbor this predator, as well as the deeper fast flowing channels in the larger of the Amazon River tributaries.
Size/weight ranges-
This Amazon giant can reach lengths of 2.85mts and weigh up to 250kgs! More common are the juveniles that reach averages of 20-35kgs, still proving to be more than challenging adversaries.
Tackle suggestions-This catch will surely be the pinnacle of your Amazon angling experience, and as such, will require the most heavy and resistant tackle available. Extra-extra-heavy tackle, 150-200lb test braided line, leaders to match, large weights (depending on current strength), and heavy gauge big game 10-12/0+circle hooks are the norm for this species; anything less and you will find yourself defeated. These fish are not only incredibly strong and fast, but also utilize the current to their advantage, allowing them to strip off hundreds of feet of line in a short moment. These predators will hit any large baitfish, especially a large sabalo, or a large chupa or bagre catfish, and although dead bait works, live bait always works better to entice this beast of a cat. Casting your bait into the deepest hole or a fast flowing deep channel in the river is the first part. Then patience and attention to your rod, for you may be holding on for dear life in the most anticipated moment of your life.
-Muturo, jau, amarillo or giant catfish-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Siluriformes, Family: Pimelodidae
Genus: Zungaro
Scientific name: Zungaro zungaro
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
This giant catfish can be caught in two color phases; petroleum green or lighter (muturo), and can also be of bright yellow coloration, when they are referred to as “amarillo”. Some display very faint dark spots along the body, and others are solid color. They have huge gaping mouths and accommodate large plates of tiny sharp teeth used to secure prey, as is the norm for most large Amazonian catfishes. Heavier than longer, these fish are stocky, and can achieve huge sizes. They are carnivorous, attacking prey such as smaller catfishes and sabalo baitfish, or boga. They are found in rivers and dwell in the deep holes formed by large eddies or deep holes around rocks and boulders. They are found in stained and clear water rivers.
Size/weight ranges-
This giant can weigh up to 100kg and a reach lengths of up to 2 meters.
Tackle suggestions-
These fish are very strong, and can get you tired and working up a good sweat really quickly. You will need extra-heavy gear, a large capacity, strong drag bait casting reel or spinning reel, at least 150lb test braided line, and at least 100lbs test steel leaders. A strong 8-10/0-circle hook is best, with a large weight (weight depending on speed of current), chunk of sabalo, boga or small live simbau or chupa catfish. Casting into the deep holes, around rocks or fast moving water, can be productive for this species. Deep eddies are also a great place to encounter these brutes. 
-Blanquillo or flat-whiskered catfish-
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Siluriformes, Family: Pimelodidae
Genus: Pinirampus
Scientific name: Pinirampus pirinampu
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
This catfish is a medium sized game fish that provides a lot of entertainment on medium tackle. Usually they are found in schools of 5-20 individuals, and once hooked on one, many more will follow. They are hard fighters and at times will break water to thrash their heads in efforts to unhook themselves. Blanquillo are white ventrally and grayish blue dorsally, and actually look very similar to a piraiba, only much smaller. Their barbels are very long and flattened, hence their common English name, flat-whiskered catfish. They are carnivorous, and will take any cut fish, meat, or live bait as well. They take off on strong runs and will fight similar to a small surubi. Their habitat includes the same areas that other catfish such as surubi, paleta and muturo, deep pools and around deep structure, where they look to pick up scraps or the occasional weakened baitfish.
Size/weight ranges-
Blanquillo can reach 50cm in length and weight up to 8kg (17.6lbs)
Tackle suggestions-
Medium tackle is suggested for this fish, since it is a hard fighter and frequents areas littered with structure. Minimum of 65lb test braided line, 4-6/0 circle hooks, and a strong 30lb steel leader is recommended. Sabalo, boga or any cut fish as well as meat will work as bait, and a live baitfish will also produce a quick response.
-Paleta or duck-billed catfish-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Siluriformes, Family: Pimelodidae
Genus: Sorubim
Scientific name: Sorubim lima
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
These catfish are of small to medium size, and have a distinguishing “duck-bill” with long barbels. They are a slender catfish, greenish to brownish dorsally, white ventrally and a solid black bar running along the body all the way to the caudal fin. The edges of the caudal and anal fins have a reddish coloration. They inhabit stained water rivers, around structure and deep pools, and eddies. Once hooked on one, your opportunities of hooking on more are increased, since they often travel in numbers. They are carnivorous and also scavenging fish and other food items from the river bottom or shallows.
Size/weight ranges-
Paleta can reach 50cm, and weigh up to 7kg (15.4lbs)
Tackle suggestions-
Medium to medium light tackle is great for this fish. Any cut baitfish, or live baitfish may produce a bite. At least 65lb test braided line, and a 4-6/0-circle hook. These fish are normally caught together with the other medium sized catfish species such as blanquillo, boca de novia, and pira.
-Armado or tachaca, armored catfish-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Siluriformes
Family: Doradidae
Genus: Pterodoras
Scientific name: Pterodoras sp.
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
This catfish looks like a chainsaw with whiskers. It can be of a yellowish brown to greenish dark color, and some may show small faint dark speckles all over the body. This fish has very rough skin, and shows a belt of thorny scales running along both sides of the body. The pectoral fins are very pronounced, and have a “chainsaw look” to them as well. The pectoral fins can close with great force, making it a tricky and dangerous catfish to handle. This fish truly shows the culmination of defensive adaptations in a river system teeming with predators. They inhabit deep pools, eddies, and around structure in stained to clear water. They are mostly scavengers but on occasion do take advantage of weakened baitfish.
Size/weight ranges-
They can reach 60cm in length and weigh up to 9kg (20lbs).
Tackle suggestions-
Medium to medium-heavy gear is needed for this species. Given the nature of their habitat and their rough bodies, at least 80lb test braided line and 45lb leaders are needed to land this fish. They fight hard, and run right into structure in attempts to break loose. 6-8/0 circle hooks and a chunk of baitfish, meat work well. A small live catfish is very enticing for them too. Casting in the usual areas frequented by catfish, such as deep pools, eddies and submerged structure, are most productive.
-Pira or jundia-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Siluriformes
Family: Pimelodidae
Genus: Leiarius
Scientific name: Leiarius marmoratus
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
The pira, or jundia, is a medium sized catfish of the amazon. They have dark olive to brown upper bodies, marbled and outlined in gold, and it is shaded or white ventrally. The dorsal fin is pronounced and has an elongated adipose fin. It is also referred to as the leopard catfish. They frequent eddies and structure along the river shores, as well as deep pools. Traveling in schools of several individuals, they can provide plenty of entertainment to anglers. They are carnivorous and detritus feeders, feeding on baitfish and scavenging on weak or dead fish. They are quite feisty, diving and taking runs repeatedly. They are a very sought after fish, in part due to their particular palatability.
Size/weight ranges-
Can reach lengths of 50cm and weigh up to 10kg (22lbs).
Tackle suggestions-
Medium to medium heavy gear is needed. These fish can put up a strong fight and run into structure in efforts to free themselves. At least 80lb test braided line and a 6-8/0-circle hook is recommended. 35-40lb steel leaders are also a must. Eddies, deep holes, and structure along the rivers edge can be productive when targeting this fish. Cut bait and live bait work well for this species.
-Boca de novia, palmito-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Siluriformes
Family: Auchenipteridae
Genus: Ageneiosus
Scientific name: Ageneiosus sp.
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
Medium sized game fish. This catfish is peculiar, since it doesn’t conspicuously show its barbels, or whiskers. They have wide “lips” and large gaping mouths. They commonly have greenish/gold coloration dorsally, and yellow to white ventrally. They have a tendency to secrete slime when handled, and makes for an interesting hook removal. Their dorsal fin spine is longer than the pectoral fin spines. These fish inhabit the same river structure as blanquillo, pira, and surubi. Deep holes, drop offs, submerged trees and large eddies. They are generally caught while attempting to capture a surubi.
Size/weight ranges-
They can reach 50cm in length and weights up to 8lbs (3.6kgs).
Tackle suggestions-
Medium tackle is ideal for these fish, and a minimum of 65lb braided line to prevent break offs when they tangle in structure. When hooked, this fish will jump repeatedly, fighting more like a dorado or peacock. However, it is a scale-less fish, a type of catfish, which has very unpronounced barbels. They are quite voracious and will take your bait rather quickly, but also tire after a short struggle. Deep holes and eddies usually hold good numbers of this fish.
Perciformes-
-Corvina or freshwater silver croaker-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes)
Order: Perciformes (Perch-likes)
Family: Sciaenidae (Drums or croakers)
Genus: Plagioscion
Scientific name: Plagioscion squamosissimus
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
The corvina displays a beautiful arrangement of silvery small scales. They resemble a croaker or freshwater drum. They have a large mouth lined with sharp teeth. This species occupies very diverse habitats. Improved osmo-regulatory abilities enable this species to tolerate higher salinities and therefore can carry out its biological cycle in freshwater (as well as in brackish water). Juveniles feed on larvae of crustaceans, aquatic insects and copepods. Adults are almost strictly piscivorous (preying on fish). They are captured mainly during the rainy season. During dry season they can be found around overhanging trees, drop offs and sometimes shallow sandy bottoms. Often times they can be heard “croaking”, a sound amplified by the hull of the boats. They are a highly prized food fish, and also put on a good fight for the lucky angler.
Size/weight ranges-
Corvina can reach sizes up to 60cm, but more commonly average 30-40cm in length. They can weigh between 2lbs to 25lbs, and an average of 8lbs.
Tackle suggestions-
Medium light to medium tackle used. Braided 30-65lb-test line is best. Being strictly a piscivorous fish, this species is mostly caught on live bait (sardinas, or sabalina) or cut bait (cut sabalo, or cut boga and sardine). As always, a 6-7/0-circle hook is suggested to minimize potential injury. However, it is possible to catch it with lures. Small and medium sized crank baits and swim-baits can produce a strike. Generally, they are caught in relatively clear to lightly stained water, around structure or in eddies, and river mouths.
-Palometa real or oscar-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Perciformes
Family: Cichlidae
Genus: Astronotus
Scientific name: Astronotus ocellatus
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
These are very laterally flattened fish, same body shape as the pacu, which allows this fish to put up a good fight. They have a protruding jaw and will suck in their prey, making them exceptional hitters on top water lures. Their pectoral fins, dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are all enlarged. This body type is typical of an ambush predator. They are varied in coloration, but range from black to very dark brown or green. The ventral area and extremities are highlighted in a bright orange hue. Usually they display a black and orange outlined spot near the base of the caudal peduncle on both sides, referred to as an ocellum. They have large eyes and a matching acute vision. It can reach short bursts of incredibly fast and accurate attacks, on the unsuspecting prey or well-presented lure/fly. This species inhabits shallow and calm mud-bottomed and sand-bottomed streams and lagoons/ponds. They feed on small fish, crayfish, worms and some insect larvae. Every so often they may even get a chance at a small reptile or amphibian. They typically suspend right below the surface of shallows along the banks of the river/lagoon, waiting to ambush their prey
Size/weight ranges-
Can reach up to 6lbs (2.7kgs) and up to 40cm long, averaging out at 25cm long and 2-4lbs.
Tackle suggestions-
Medium light tackle is perfect for these fish. Braided 30lbs line is essential since they typically dive right into vegetation. Poppers, hard swim-baits and virtually any top water lures attract their attention. Lures that are on the smaller size seem to work best. Spoons also produce strikes. They attack spinner-baits, rooster-tails and Rapala jointed shads. This species will inhabit the same areas as the peacock bass and wolfish, which allows the angler to have a mixed bag of great fighting, highly predatory fish.
-Tucunare or peacock bass-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Perciformes
Family: Cichlidae
Genus: Cichla
Scientific name: Cichla ocellaris, Cichla monoculus
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
The tucunare is golden/yellow and/or greenish in color, sometimes displaying black bars down its sides, brightly colored fins and an ocellum (dark spot surrounded by gold ring) by the base of the caudal fin that gives it its English name, peacock bass. During the periods leading up to and during the reproductive season, males develop a large hump on the head. They have a large protruding mouth, with which they swallow prey whole (strictly carnivorous). They are ambush predators and will hide among structure and vegetation, often times in groups of 2-30 individuals. When their fry hatch, they are kept within the male parent’s mouth, when the developed hump of males comes into play, and serves as nutritive reserves of lipids (fats) for the fasting male. They are very territorial and protect their young with extreme aggression, even attacking intruders (lures and flies) just to get them to go away. They are by far the most popular game fish of the Amazon, and although not as big as their Brazilian cousins, are found in healthy populations and more importantly unmatched numbers here in the Bolivian Amazon.
Size/weight ranges-
Our species of peacock bass can get up to 50cm in length and at a maximum of 6kg in weight.
Tackle suggestions-
Medium-light to medium tackle is suggested for these powerful fish. 65lb test braided line is recommended, since they are specialists at diving down and getting tangled into plants and structure. Shallow and medium diving swim baits all work great, as well as top water lures and flies. Chartreuse, red, gold, orange, neon yellow, red/white, blue, and silver color patterns work best. Poppers, jerk-baits, spinners, rooster-tails, spoons, and Rapalas work great. Experimenting with all the popular kinds of lures and finding the perfect style and color combination is very satisfying. Casting your lure/fly into or around any structure such as vegetation, submerged trees, rocks, drop offs, sand bars, and sandy shores will produce hits.
Osteoglossiformes-
-Arapaima, pirarucu, or paiche-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii, Order: Osteoglossiformes
Family: Osteoglossidae
Genus: Arapaima
Scientific name: Arapaima gigas
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
This is the largest species of scaled freshwater fish in the world. The arapaima has very large and rough scales covering its body. The body tapers towards the head, ending in a narrow ossified skull. The dorsal and anal fins are located posteriorly, sitting far back on the body with the caudal fin. They have an overall greenish/gray to olivaceous coloration dorsally, and possess, on the ventral and posterior parts of the body, bright red highlights on their huge scales. They are members of the order osteoglossiformes, or ossified-tongued fish (bony tongue). They use their bony plates at the roof of their mouths to crush their prey before swallowing them whole. Pirarucu or paiche, are massive fish, designed to be ambush predators, and have the ability to survive in highly anoxic waters (low-oxygen). They can obtain oxygen not only from the water through use of their gills, but also from the air inhaled into their modified swim bladder. They are strictly carnivorous, and are able to secure prey such as small mammals, reptiles and birds that are unfortunate enough to be caught close to the water.
Size/weight ranges-
Can range from 50cm to 2.5meters, and weigh up to 200 kg (440lbs)
Tackle suggestions-
This species requires you to pull out the heavy artillery. Big game extra-heavy rods, large reels with powerful drag systems, minimum of 150-200lbs test braided line, steel leaders to match, large gauge big game circle hooks, and a large buoy or float. Placing this float about 3ft from the hook positions the bait right where it needs to be, just under the surface of the water. For bait, a live or dead fish such as a sabalo or a boga is best, although some larger minnow-like characins work good as well. In order to catch one, you first need to find one, and that is best done with the utmost stealth. A dugout canoe and a paddle is the best way to scout the surface for any disturbance caused by a breathing arapaima. Once spotted, your approach should be very calm and quiet, casting in the close proximity of where you saw the fish break the surface. In this fashion, you can increase your chances of hooking onto one of these Amazon goliaths.
Rajiformes-
-Raya or freshwater stingray-
Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata
Class: Chondrichthyes, Order: Rajiformes
Family: Potamotrygonidae
Genus: Potamotrygon
Scientific name: Potamotrygon motoro
Facts:
Morphology/behavior-
The freshwater stingray is highly variable in color, so it can be of a number of different color morphs. Mostly it is greenish, gray or brown, with yellow to golden spots dorsally, and white ventrally. It is a dorso-ventrally flattened fish, which is strictly adapted to fresh water environments. Its dorsal side is covered in rough skin, and thorny protrusions along with one or two spines attached to the base of the tail. The eyes are located high up on the head portion of the body, allowing it to bury itself out of sight under mud or sand, and still have the ability to see prey or predators approaching. It feeds on mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish, crushing them with their teeth resembling bony plates inside their mouths. They inhabit calm waters that may be clear or stained, but more commonly in muddy rather than sandy bottoms.
Size/weight ranges-
This species can reach weights of up to 60kgs (132lbs) and almost 1.3mts in diameter.
Tackle suggestions-
This species puts up a good fight initially, but its shape and ability to use suction is the real reason for its challenging fight. Medium heavy to extra heavy rods are recommended, as well as a powerful bait casting or spinning reel. 100lbs test line or greater is needed, as well as matching steel leaders in the 90lbs+ test range. Heavy gauge circle hooks are a must. This fish will pursue live or cut bait, and will commonly take it without warning and sit motionless, chewing and swallowing it without taking off. It will then move away slowly, generally by that time having swallowed your entire rig all the way in. They tend to dive quickly and do everything in their power to suck onto the bottom substrate, making it extremely difficult to pull them out. It is important to not let them drop to the bottom and get stuck, forcing you to keep the fish coming and steering it away from the bottom with relentless effort. This is much easier said than done, since to catch this fish you will need to cast straight to the bottom of eddies or drop offs, with a heavy weight to keep it there when needed. Needless to say, it is strongly encouraged that you leave the handling of this fish to us, considering its potential for an EXTREMELY painful sting.