WikiCatch
Small-scaled pacu
Piaractus mesopotamicus
Overview
Piaractus mesopotamicus, pirapitinga, the small-scaled pacu, Paraná River pacu or simply pacu, is a species of freshwater ray-finned fish belonging to the family Serrasalmidae, which includes the piranhas, pacus and related fishes. These fishes are endemic to the drainage basin of the Paraguay River in South America.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Earthworms
A readily available and effective bait.
- Corn kernels
Use canned or fresh corn on a hook.
- Fruit Pieces
Small pieces of fruit like banana or guava.
- Pasta Dough Balls
Easy to prepare and stays on hook well.
- Grasshoppers
Good for surface feeding pacu.
Artificial Lures
- Rapala Original Floater 09CrankbaitBuy
Mimics small fish, works well when trolled.
- Mepps Aglia #3SpinnerBuy
Silver or gold, attracts with flash and vibration.
- Strike King KVD Squarebill 1.5CrankbaitBuy
Good for bouncing off structure in shallow water.
- Zoom Trick WormSoft PlasticBuy
Wacky rigged or Texas rigged, effective near vegetation.
- Heddon Zara SpookTopwaterBuy
Walk-the-dog action can trigger strikes.
Techniques
Present your bait or lure near submerged vegetation or fallen trees, as pacu often seek shelter and food in these areas. Use a strong line and hook due to their powerful jaws.
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Where to Find Small-scaled pacu
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Small-scaled pacu?+
Popular baits for Small-scaled pacu include Earthworms, Corn kernels, Fruit Pieces, Pasta Dough Balls, Grasshoppers. Tip: Present your bait or lure near submerged vegetation or fallen trees, as pacu often seek shelter and food in these areas. Use a strong line and hook due to their powerful jaws.
Where can I catch Small-scaled pacu?+
Small-scaled pacu can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include São Paulo, Brazil; Minas Gerais, Brazil; Paraná, Brazil. WikiCatch lists 520 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Small-scaled pacu get?+
Small-scaled pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus) can reach up to 40.50000011920929 cm in length and 20 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is NE.
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