Arapaima

About this species

One of the world's largest freshwater fish, an air-breathing Amazonian giant clad in huge red-edged scales. It surfaces to gulp air in oxygen-poor floodplain lakes, hunting fish and invertebrates. Large flies and lures near the surface, on very heavy tackle, are used where legal.

Season

Depth

0 – 10 m

Habitat Spots

Fishing Methods

Bait & Rig

Large topwater lures or heavy fly lines worked near the surface in oxbow lakes and floodplain lagoons on very heavy tackle, where legally permitted.

Edibility & Taste

Excellent white flesh, a vital protein source for Amazonian communities; now farmed and sustainable aquaculture fish is recommended over wild-caught specimens.

Similar Species

No close look-alikes in its range; the enormous red-edged scales, distinctly elongated body, and air-gulping behavior at the surface are unmistakable.

Record Weight

200 kg