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African glass catfish

Pareutropius debauwi

African glass catfishAI-generated illustration

The African glass catfish (Pareutropius debauwi) is a small, translucent freshwater catfish native to West and Central African rivers. It grows to about 12.6 cm (5 in) and is prized by aquarium hobbyists rather than sport anglers, but can be caught using light, stealthy tactics. Its delicate flesh is edible but of low culinary value.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Schilbeidae

Max Size

12.6 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year‑round, with higher activity during the rainy season (May–October)

Best Time

Dusk to dawn, especially night when the catfish are most active

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for African glass catfish

  • Use a light ultralight spinning rod (2‑3 ft) with 2‑4 lb test line to feel subtle bites
  • Fish near submerged vegetation, overhanging roots, or quiet backwater channels where catfish hide
  • Present tiny live baits such as bloodworms, mosquito larvae, or small shrimp on a size 6‑8 hook
  • Employ a slow, gentle jig‑and‑pause technique or a small soft‑plastic grub dragged along the bottom

Top Fishing Locations for African glass catfish

Niger River – Bamako Floodplain

Mali
beginner78% Very Common

Wide floodplain with abundant vegetation; African glass catfish thrive among submerged roots and leaf litter.

Best: Nov-Feb

Cross River – Calabar Region

Nigeria
intermediate65% Common

Slow‑moving sections with plenty of leaf litter and overhanging trees make this a classic spot for glass catfish.

Best: Oct-Jan

Lake Volta – Upper Reservoir (Lake Kpong)

Ghana
beginner72% Very Common

Freshwater lake with submerged trees and woody debris; ideal habitat for the species during the dry season.

Best: Sep-Dec

Ogooué River – Near Lambaréné

Gabon
expert55% Common

Remote river stretch with clear water, abundant insects and plenty of hiding places for glass catfish.

Best: Oct-Feb

Congo River – Kinshasa–Brazzaville Border

Democratic Republic of the Congo
intermediate68% Common

Large channel with deep pools and rocky outcrops where glass catfish congregate during peak flow.

Best: Nov-Jan

Sangha River – Bilinga Rapids

Cameroon
expert45% Occasional

Rapids with a mix of rock and submerged vegetation; less frequented but yields high catches when targeted.

Best: Oct-Jan

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for African glass catfish

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 2‑3 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft‑plastic grubs or micro jigs (size 0‑1)
TechniqueBottom fishing with a light jig‑and‑pause or drift presentation

Best bait: Live bloodworms, mosquito larvae, small shrimp, or other tiny live invertebrates