Species guide
How to catch South American catfish
Rhamdia quelen
The South American catfish is a freshwater species notable for its elongated body and distinctive barbels used to detect prey on the bottom. It primarily feeds on insects and small aquatic organisms, hunting mostly near the substrate without disturbing it. This catfish can grow up to 61 cm in length and weigh about 4 kg.
Where they live
Found in shallow freshwater habitats across North and South America, typically ranging from the surface down to 3 meters deep. Prefers environments where it can hunt along the bottom using its sensitive barbels.
Typical size
Up to about 61 cm
What they eat
- insects
- insect larvae
- small benthic zooplankton
- small fish
Best baits
- worms
- insect larvae
- small pieces of fish
- maggots
Best lures
- soft plastic worms
- jigs
- small crankbaits
How to fish for them
- bottom fishing
- drift fishing
- light tackle angling
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