WikiCatch
Spotted tilapia

Spotted tilapia

Pelmatolapia mariae

Family
Cichlidae
Max Length
32 cm
Max Weight
1.4 kg
IUCN Status
LC
Water Type
freshwater, mixed
Fishing Spots
141

Overview

The spotted tilapia, also known as the spotted mangrove cichlid or black mangrove cichlid, is a species of fish of the cichlid family. It is native to fresh and brackish water in West and Central Africa, but has been introduced to other regions where it is considered invasive.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Earthworms

    Very effective, especially for smaller fish.

  • Mealworms

    Easy to handle and readily accepted.

  • Maggots

    Can be used in conjunction with groundbait.

  • Crickets

    Good choice near vegetation.

  • Grasshoppers

    Effective during warmer months.

Artificial Lures

  • Mepps Aglia #2Spinner

    Silver blade works well in clear water.

    Buy
  • Rapala Original Floater 07Crankbait

    Trolled slowly near weed beds.

    Buy
  • Zoom Trick WormSoft Plastic

    Texas-rigged, slow retrieves work great.

    Buy
  • Blue Fox Vibrax #3Spinner

    Retrieve with varying speed.

    Buy
  • Strike King Mr. Crappie Slab HammerJig

    Can be tipped with live bait for extra appeal.

    Buy

Techniques

Spotted tilapia are often found near structure; focus your fishing efforts around submerged trees, rocks, and weed beds. Using polarized sunglasses will help you spot potential holding areas.

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Where to Find Spotted tilapia

Florida, United States106 spotsQueensland, Australia5 spotsAlabama, United States3 spotsTexas, United States2 spotsIllinois, United States2 spotsIndiana, United States2 spotsGeorgia, United States2 spotsArizona, United States1 spotsNew South Wales, Australia1 spotsSouth Carolina, United States1 spots
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Spotted tilapia?+

Popular baits for Spotted tilapia include Earthworms, Mealworms, Maggots, Crickets, Grasshoppers. Tip: Spotted tilapia are often found near structure; focus your fishing efforts around submerged trees, rocks, and weed beds. Using polarized sunglasses will help you spot potential holding areas.

Where can I catch Spotted tilapia?+

Spotted tilapia can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Florida, United States; Queensland, Australia; Alabama, United States. WikiCatch lists 141 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Spotted tilapia get?+

Spotted tilapia (Pelmatolapia mariae) can reach up to 32.3000014 cm in length and 1.4 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.

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