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Smallmouthed salmon catfish

Cinetodus froggatti

Smallmouthed salmon catfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Smallmouthed salmon catfish (Cinetodus froggatti) is a medium‑sized, silvery‑gray catfish native to northern Australian rivers and estuaries. It frequents both fresh and brackish waters, often hiding among submerged roots and muddy bottoms, and is prized by anglers for its strong, steady fight and decent table quality.

Fight
Taste
Traumatogenic

Basic Information

Family

Ariidae

Max Size

48 cm

Habitat

freshwater, brackish

Climate

tropical

Best Season

October to March (warmer months when water temperature rises)

Best Time

Dawn and dusk, with a secondary peak during night hours

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Smallmouthed salmon catfish

  • Use live or freshly cut bait such as shrimp, small fish, or earthworms to attract catfish activity
  • Fish near structure like submerged roots, fallen logs, and drop‑offs where catfish ambush prey
  • Cast or drift a weighted jig or soft‑plastic bait along the bottom and retrieve slowly to let it sit on the substrate
  • Try night fishing with a lantern or headlamp; catfish often become more active after dark

Top Fishing Locations for Smallmouthed salmon catfish

Fly River Delta

Papua New Guinea
intermediate78% Very Common

The expansive delta of the Fly River hosts abundant floodplain habitats and abundant prey, making it a premier spot for targeting Smallmouthed salmon catfish during the dry season.

Best: May-September

Lower Sepik River

Papua New Guinea
intermediate65% Common

The lower reaches of the Sepik provide deep, slow‑moving channels where the catfish congregate under overhanging vegetation, attracting dedicated anglers.

Best: June-August

Daintree River

Australia
expert55% Common

Tropical rainforests line the Daintree River, creating rich nutrient inputs that support healthy catfish populations, though remote access raises the challenge level.

Best: December-February

East Alligator River, Arnhem Land

Australia
intermediate70% Very Common

Protected wetlands of Arnhem Land host strong catfish runs, with guide‑available tours that make the fish relatively easy to target.

Best: April-June

Wenlock River, Cape York

Australia
intermediate62% Common

The clear, flowing waters of the Wenlock are known for consistent catfish activity and are a bucket‑list destination for enthusiasts.

Best: August-October

Mataniko River, Guadalcanal

Solomon Islands
beginner45% Occasional

Remote riverine stretches on Guadalcanal have become a hidden gem for catfish hunters, with limited but growing local guide services.

Best: September-November

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Smallmouthed salmon catfish

Recommended Equipment

RodMedium‑action spinning rod, 6‑7 ft length
Line6‑10 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSoft‑plastic swimbaits, small bucktail jigs, or spinnerbaits (N/A if using live bait)
TechniqueBottom‑dragging or slow‑retrieved jigging near structure

Best bait: Live shrimp, small baitfish, or cut earthworms