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Orinoco sailfin catfish

Orinoco sailfin catfish

Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus

Family
Loricariidae
Max Length
50 cm
Max Weight
4 kg
IUCN Status
NE
Water Type
freshwater
Fishing Spots
10

Overview

Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus is one of several tropical fish commonly known as Orinoco sailfin catfish, plecostomus. It belongs to the armored catfish family (Loricariidae). Named for its sail-like dorsal fin, the part of its scientific name multiradiatus means "many-rayed" and refers to the rays of the dorsal fin. P. multiradiatus is one of a number of species commonly referred to as the common pleco by aquarists.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Nightcrawlers

    Effective, widely available, and easy to use.

  • Red Wigglers

    Smaller than nightcrawlers, good for smaller fish.

  • Mealworms

    Cheap, easy to keep, and attract fish.

  • Small Shrimp

    A good alternative to worms in some areas.

Artificial Lures

  • Strike King Red Eye ShadCrankbait

    Lipless crankbait, works well in open water.

    Buy
  • Rapala Shad Rap 05Crankbait

    Good for imitating baitfish.

    Buy
  • Zoom Trick WormSoft Plastic

    Texas or Carolina rigged near vegetation.

    Buy
  • Mepps Aglia #3Spinner

    Classic spinner, attracts many fish.

    Buy
  • Johnson Silver MinnowSpoon

    Weedless spoon effective in heavy cover.

    Buy

Techniques

Fish near the bottom where Orinoco sailfin catfish typically feed, especially in areas with vegetation or structure.

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Where to Find Orinoco sailfin catfish

Florida, United States5 spotsParaná, Brazil2 spotsSão Paulo, Brazil1 spotsIllinois, United States1 spots
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Orinoco sailfin catfish?+

Popular baits for Orinoco sailfin catfish include Nightcrawlers, Red Wigglers, Mealworms, Small Shrimp, Strike King Red Eye Shad. Tip: Fish near the bottom where Orinoco sailfin catfish typically feed, especially in areas with vegetation or structure.

Where can I catch Orinoco sailfin catfish?+

Orinoco sailfin catfish can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Florida, United States; Paraná, Brazil; São Paulo, Brazil. WikiCatch lists 10 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Orinoco sailfin catfish get?+

Orinoco sailfin catfish (Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus) can reach up to 50 cm in length and 4.0435 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is NE.

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