WikiCatch
Giant river-catfish
Sperata seenghala
Overview
Sperata seenghala, the Giant river-catfish, is a species of bagrid catfish. It is known locally as Guizza, Guizza ayer, Auri, Ari, Pogal, Singhara and Seenghala, among other names. It is found in southern Asia in the countries of Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal and Bangladesh with reports of occurrence in Myanmar, Thailand and Yunnan, China. It can reach a length of 150 cm, though lengths up to 40 cm are more usual. It is commercially fished for human consumption as well as being a popular gamefish with a reputation for being a good fighter when hooked. It is carnivorous in diet. It can be distinguished from other Sperata species by its spatulate, blunt snout, relatively short barbels and mouth that is only 1/3 as wide as the head is long.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Live Rohu
Effective when fished near structure.
- Live Tilapia
A readily available and attractive bait.
- Earthworms (Nightcrawlers)
Good all-around bait, use multiple worms.
- Small Frogs
Particularly effective in shallow areas.
- Chicken Liver
Strong scent attracts catfish.
Artificial Lures
- Rapala Original Floater 13CrankbaitBuy
Cast and retrieve slowly near submerged logs.
- Mepps Aglia Longcast #4SpinnerBuy
Flashy retrieve in murky water is effective.
- Zoom Brush HogSoft PlasticBuy
Texas-rigged, dragged along the bottom.
- Daiwa Tournament Ballistic JigJigBuy
Hop along the bottom near drop-offs.
- Kastmaster Spoon 1ozSpoonBuy
Cast far, retrieve with a wobble.
Techniques
Use a strong rod and reel with heavy line as Giant River Catfish are powerful fighters, and target areas with cover like submerged trees or rocks.
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Where to Find Giant river-catfish
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Giant river-catfish?+
Popular baits for Giant river-catfish include Live Rohu, Live Tilapia, Earthworms (Nightcrawlers), Small Frogs, Chicken Liver. Tip: Use a strong rod and reel with heavy line as Giant River Catfish are powerful fighters, and target areas with cover like submerged trees or rocks.
Where can I catch Giant river-catfish?+
Giant river-catfish can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Goa, India. WikiCatch lists 1 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Giant river-catfish get?+
Giant river-catfish (Sperata seenghala) can reach up to 150 cm in length and 20 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.
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