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Labeobarbus boulengeri

Labeobarbus boulengeri

Labeobarbus boulengeri© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Labeobarbus boulengeri is a small cyprinid native to African freshwater rivers, reaching up to 16 cm in length. It is popular with local anglers for its abundance rather than sport, offering a modest fight and decent table fare.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Cyprinidae

Max Size

16 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Rainy season (April‑June) when water levels rise and the fish are most active

Best Time

Early morning and late afternoon

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Labeobarbus boulengeri

  • Use a light 2‑4 lb line to avoid spooking the fish
  • Fish near submerged rocks and slower‑moving pools where they feed
  • Present tiny baits or micro‑lures slowly to mimic natural prey
  • Retrieve gently; a subtle lift can trigger a strike

Top Fishing Locations for Labeobarbus boulengeri

Lake Tanganyika – Bujumbura Shore

Burundi
intermediate70% Very Common

The deep, clear waters along the Burundi shoreline host abundant Labeobarbus boulengeri populations feeding on insects and small fish near rocky outcrops.

Best: May-October

Congo River – Kinshasa Rapids

Democratic Republic of the Congo
expert60% Common

Strong currents and turbulent rapids create ideal habitats for Labeobarbus boulengeri, which congregate in eddies and backwaters near the capital.

Best: November-February

Zambezi River – Victoria Falls (Livingstone)

Zambia
expert45% Occasional

The turbulent stretch below Victoria Falls concentrates baitfish, attracting Labeobarbus boulengeri that hunt in the fast‑flowing sections.

Best: June-September

Lake Victoria – Mwanza Bay

Tanzania
beginner65% Common

Warm, shallow bays near Mwanza are rich in plankton and provide perfect feeding grounds for Labeobarbus boulengeri during the dry season.

Best: March-May, October-December

Upper Nile – Juba River Confluence

South Sudan
intermediate55% Common

The confluence area creates calm pools and sandbars where Labeobarbus boulengeri gather to spawn, offering reliable catches for patient anglers.

Best: December-February

Kafue River – Lower Kafue (near Lusaka)

Zambia
intermediate40% Occasional

A mix of slow‑moving channels and hidden riffles make the lower Kafue a productive hotspot for Labeobarbus boulengeri during the rainy season.

Best: May-September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Labeobarbus boulengeri

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft‑plastic grubs or tiny spinnerbaits
TechniqueLight float fishing or gentle bottom jigging

Best bait: Live earthworms or small aquatic insects