WikiCatch
Electric catfish
Malapterurus electricus
Overview
Malapterurus electricus is a thickset fish with six mouth barbels and a single fin on its back, just anterior to the rounded tail fin. It is brownish or grayish, irregularly spotted with black, and attains a length and weight of about 1.2 metres and 23 kilograms (51 lb) M. electricus is capable of generating and controlling the discharge of up to 450 volts of electricity. It uses its power to defend itself and to capture prey.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Earthworms
Nightcrawlers or garden worms, very effective.
- Chicken Liver
Strong scent attracts catfish from a distance.
- Small Fish
Use local species as live bait.
- Shrimp
Fresh or frozen shrimp works well.
- Insects
Grasshoppers or crickets can be productive.
Artificial Lures
- Rapala Shad Rap SR05CrankbaitBuy
Mimics small baitfish, use in clear water.
- Mepps Aglia Longcast #3SpinnerBuy
Flashy and vibrates, attracts attention.
- Berkley PowerBait Power WormSoft PlasticBuy
Scented worm, effective Texas or Carolina rigged.
- Strike King Red Eye ShadLipless CrankbaitBuy
Vibrates aggressively, use near cover.
- Bass Pro Shops XPS Rattling JigJigBuy
Add a trailer for extra attraction.
Techniques
Fish near structure like submerged logs or rocks, as electric catfish often hide there; use a slow retrieve to give them time to locate the bait.
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Where to Find Electric catfish
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Electric catfish?+
Popular baits for Electric catfish include Earthworms, Chicken Liver, Small Fish, Shrimp, Insects. Tip: Fish near structure like submerged logs or rocks, as electric catfish often hide there; use a slow retrieve to give them time to locate the bait.
Where can I catch Electric catfish?+
Electric catfish can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Koulikoro, Mali. WikiCatch lists 1 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Electric catfish get?+
Electric catfish (Malapterurus electricus) can reach up to 122.000003 cm in length and 20 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.
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