WikiCatch
Clown knifefish
Chitala ornata
Overview
The clown featherback, also known as the clown knifefish and spotted knifefish, is a nocturnal species of tropical fish with a long, knife-like body. This knifefish is native to freshwater habitats in Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, Laos, Macau, Thailand, and Vietnam, but it has also been introduced to regions outside its native range. It is one of the world's most invasive species. It is often seen in aquaculture and the aquarium trade, where it is frequently confused with Chitala chitala; the latter species is very rare in the aquarium trade. The clown featherback reaches 1 m (3.3 ft) in length, outgrowing all but the largest aquaria, yet it is popular.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Live Small Fish (e.g., Goldfish, Guppies)
Highly effective, especially for larger specimens.
- Earthworms
A readily available and versatile option.
- Shrimp
Freshwater shrimp work well.
- Crickets
Easy to acquire and use.
Artificial Lures
- Rapala Original Floater 07CrankbaitBuy
Mimics injured baitfish effectively.
- Mepps Aglia #3SpinnerBuy
Flash and vibration attract attention.
- Zoom Trick WormSoft PlasticBuy
Texas rigged or weightless.
- Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow F1145-CLCLJerkbaitBuy
Erratic action can trigger strikes.
- Johnson Silver MinnowSpoonBuy
Weedless spoon great in cover.
Techniques
Fish near submerged structures or vegetation, as clown knifefish often ambush prey from cover. Vary your retrieve speed until you find what triggers the most strikes.
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Where to Find Clown knifefish
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Clown knifefish?+
Popular baits for Clown knifefish include Live Small Fish (e.g., Goldfish, Guppies), Earthworms, Shrimp, Crickets, Rapala Original Floater 07. Tip: Fish near submerged structures or vegetation, as clown knifefish often ambush prey from cover. Vary your retrieve speed until you find what triggers the most strikes.
Where can I catch Clown knifefish?+
Clown knifefish can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Florida, United States; Texas, United States; Metro Manila, Philippines. WikiCatch lists 53 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Clown knifefish get?+
Clown knifefish (Chitala ornata) can reach up to 100 cm in length and 5 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.
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