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Ctenopoma ashbysmithi

Ctenopoma ashbysmithi

Ctenopoma ashbysmithiAI-generated illustration

Ctenopoma ashbysmithi is a tiny freshwater catfish native to small streams; it is prized by hobbyists rather than anglers but can be caught with ultra‑light gear.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Anabantidae

Max Size

3.9 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year‑round, with peak activity during the rainy season (April‑June)

Best Time

Early morning and late evening (dawn/dusk)

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Ctenopoma ashbysmithi

  • Use ultra‑light 2‑4 lb test line and a nano‑spinning rod (12‑15 in).
  • Present the smallest live bait such as micro‑worms or newly hatched brine shrimp.
  • Float a tiny split‑shot sinker (1‑2 g) just above the bottom to keep the bait near the substrate.
  • Slow, gentle jigging or a light hand‑troll near overhanging vegetation often triggers a bite.

Top Fishing Locations for Ctenopoma ashbysmithi

intermediate70% Very Common

One of the most productive inland waters for Ctenopoma ashbysmithi, with abundant vegetation and slow‑moving channels that attract the species during the rainy season.

Best: May-October

Okavango Delta

Botswana
beginner55% Common

The delta's floodplains and oxbow lakes provide ideal habitats; anglers often target the species from the banks during the peak flood months.

Best: July-September

Upper Rio Negro (Amazon River)

Brazil
expert30% Occasional

Clear blackwater streams of the Upper Rio Negro host dense leaf litter where C. ashbysmithi hide, making it a prized catch for specialist fly anglers.

Best: December-February

Lake Tana

Ethiopia
intermediate65% Common

High‑altitude lake with rocky substrates and abundant algae; the species congregates near the lake’s many inlet streams during the early dry season.

Best: March-May

Sudd Wetlands

South Sudan
expert20% Uncommon

Vast papyrus swamps and shallow channels create perfect ambush spots; accessibility is limited, adding to its allure for dedicated anglers.

Best: April-June

Nile River (Murchison Falls)

Uganda
beginner80% Very Common

Turbulent stretches near the falls concentrate prey species, drawing C. ashbysmithi into fast‑flowing pockets; easy bank access makes it popular.

Best: September-November

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Ctenopoma ashbysmithi

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 12‑15 in, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro soft‑plastic grubs or tiny jig heads (1‑2 mm)
TechniqueLight jigging or drift‑fishing with a micro float

Best bait: Micro worms, newly hatched brine shrimp, or daphnia