Species guide
How to catch Clown knifefish
Chitala
freshwatergame fishNotopteridae
The Clown knifefish is a distinctive freshwater predator known for its long, knife-shaped body and unique swimming style. It inhabits varied freshwater environments across Asia and can grow quite large. This species is prized by anglers for its fighting ability and size.
Where they live
Found in rivers, ponds, reservoirs, canals, and wetlands throughout Asia, the Clown knifefish prefers freshwater habitats with abundant cover and prey.
Typical size
Up to about 122 cm
What they eat
- small fishes
- aquatic insects
- shrimps
- mollusks
Best baits
- live baitfish
- shrimp
- worms
- insect larvae
Best lures
- soft plastic swimbaits
- jigs
- topwater plugs
- paddle tail lures
How to fish for them
- casting near cover
- bottom fishing
- trolling
- using live bait
Track every Clown knifefish you catch.
Bobbr turns each catch into a species collection, quests, and streaks. We're building it now — join the iOS waitlist for $19 lifetime founding access.
Claim founding access