Spotted sea catfish
Arius maculatus
Overview
The spotted sea catfish, also known as the spotted catfish, the sea barbel or the marine catfish, is a species of sea catfish in the family Ariidae. It was described by Carl Peter Thunberg in 1792, originally under the genus Silurus. It inhabits tropical marine, brackish and freshwater in the Indo-western Pacific region, including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. It dwells at a depth range of 50 to 100 m. It reaches a maximum total length of 80 cm (31 in), more commonly reaching a TL of 30 cm (12 in).
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Prawns
Peel the prawns for better scent release.
- Squid
Cut into strips for easier hookup.
- Bloodworms
Use multiple worms on a single hook.
- Pilchards
Chunked pilchards are very effective.
- Crabs
Soft shell crabs work well.
Artificial Lures
- Berkley Gulp! Alive! ShrimpSoft PlasticBuy
Chartreuse color often works best.
- Daiwa Samurai Minnow 90SPMinnowBuy
Slow retrieve with occasional twitch.
- Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow F1158CrankbaitBuy
Good for trolling or casting.
- Savage Gear Fat Tail SpinSpinnerBuy
Cast and retrieve near the bottom.
- Mustad Ultra Point Classic Jig Hook with Squid SkirtJigBuy
Try varying jigging action.
Techniques
Spotted sea catfish are often found near structures or drop-offs, so target these areas with your bait or lure; they respond best to scent and slow presentations.
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Where to Find Spotted sea catfish
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Spotted sea catfish?+
Popular baits for Spotted sea catfish include Prawns, Squid, Bloodworms, Pilchards, Crabs. Tip: Spotted sea catfish are often found near structures or drop-offs, so target these areas with your bait or lure; they respond best to scent and slow presentations.
Where can I catch Spotted sea catfish?+
Spotted sea catfish can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include จังหวัดราชบุรี, Thailand. WikiCatch lists 2 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Spotted sea catfish get?+
Spotted sea catfish (Arius maculatus) can reach up to 80.0000012 cm in length and 18.8297 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is NE.
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