WikiCatch
Arapaima

Arapaima

Arapaima gigas

Family
Arapaimidae
Max Length
450 cm
Max Weight
200 kg
IUCN Status
DD
Water Type
freshwater
Fishing Spots
38

Overview

Arapaima gigas, also known simply as Arapaima, pirarucu, or paiche, is a species of arapaima native to the basin of the Amazon River. Once believed to be the sole species in the genus, it is among the largest freshwater fish.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Live Tilapia

    Arapaima's favorite, present live on a large circle hook.

  • Pacu

    Smaller pacu make excellent bait, good size for Arapaima.

  • Sardines

    Oily and smelly, can be used whole or cut.

  • Tambaqui

    Another local fish; good size for enticing Arapaima.

  • Piranha

    Arapaima eat Piranha. Fish on large single hook

Artificial Lures

  • Rapala Super Shad RapCrankbait

    Large profile, mimics common prey, works well trolled.

    Buy
  • Yo-Zuri Hydro PopperPopper

    Loud topwater action attracts attention in murky waters.

    Buy
  • Zoom Horny ToadSoft Plastic

    Buzz it on the surface, good for weedy areas.

    Buy
  • Storm Wildeye Swim Shad 06Swimbait

    Realistic action, great for targeting large fish.

    Buy
  • Daredevle Spoon 5"Spoon

    Classic lure, erratic action attracts strikes.

    Buy

Techniques

Use heavy tackle (80-100lb test) and strong hooks because Arapaima are incredibly powerful fish; target areas near submerged logs and vegetation.

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Where to Find Arapaima

São Paulo, Brazil6 spotsAmazonas, Brazil5 spotsMinas Gerais, Brazil3 spotsParaná, Brazil2 spotsTocantins, Brazil2 spotsRio de Janeiro, Brazil2 spotsจังหวัดลพบุรี, Thailand1 spotsPará, Brazil1 spotsHuila, Colombia1 spotsSanta Cruz, Bolivia1 spots
📍 Find spots near me🗺️ Explore on the full map

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Arapaima?+

Popular baits for Arapaima include Live Tilapia, Pacu, Sardines, Tambaqui, Piranha. Tip: Use heavy tackle (80-100lb test) and strong hooks because Arapaima are incredibly powerful fish; target areas near submerged logs and vegetation.

Where can I catch Arapaima?+

Arapaima can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include São Paulo, Brazil; Amazonas, Brazil; Minas Gerais, Brazil. WikiCatch lists 38 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Arapaima get?+

Arapaima (Arapaima gigas) can reach up to 450 cm in length and 200 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is DD.

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