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Ctenopoma togoensis

Ctenopoma togoensis

Ctenopoma togoensisAI-generated illustration

Ctenopoma togoensis is a small freshwater climbing gourami native to West African rivers. Reaching about 12 cm, it is popular among aquarium hobbyists but is seldom targeted by anglers, offering a modest challenge for those fishing in shallow streams.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Anabantidae

Max Size

12 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

tropical

Best Season

April to September (wet season, when water levels rise)

Best Time

Early morning and late evening

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Ctenopoma togoensis

  • Use ultra‑light tackle; a 4‑6 ft ultralight rod with 2‑4 lb test line works best.
  • Present live bait such as small worms or insect larvae near submerged vegetation.
  • Cast or drop a tiny soft‑plastic jig or micro‑spinnerbait (1‑2 cm) and retrieve slowly.
  • Fish in shallow, calm water sections where the fish hide among roots and plants.

Top Fishing Locations for Ctenopoma togoensis

Niger River Delta - Bamako Reach

Mali
beginner75% Very Common

Wide slow‑moving sections with dense vegetation ideal for Ctenopoma togoensis

Best: June-September

Lake Volta - Upper Reservoir

Ghana
intermediate55% Common

Large lake with abundant swampy margins where the species thrives

Best: March-May

Oti River - Bagré Dam Vicinity

Burkina Faso
intermediate45% Occasional

River stretch with rocky outcrops and quiet pools favored by the fish

Best: April-July

Sanaga River - Lower Basin

Cameroon
expert30% Occasional

Tropical rainforest tributary with slow pools and dense cover, a stronghold for the species

Best: July-October

Gambia River - Upper Gambia near Basse

The Gambia
beginner65% Common

Muddy backwaters with high Ctenopoma density during the wet season

Best: May-August

Niger River - Grand Niamey Floodplain

Niger
intermediate40% Occasional

Seasonal floodplain with abundant vegetation providing ideal habitat

Best: July-October

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Ctenopoma togoensis

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 4‑6 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro soft plastic grub, tiny spinner, or no lure (live bait)
TechniqueLight jigging or slow drift with live bait near vegetation

Best bait: Small live worms or insect larvae