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Cephalocassis melanochir

Cephalocassis melanochir

Cephalocassis melanochir© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Cephalocassis melanochir, commonly called the black‑fin sea catfish, is a small catfish reaching about 30 cm that inhabits coastal mangroves, brackish estuaries and occasionally fresh‑water rivers. It is popular among local anglers for its abundance and easy catch, though it is not a major sport or table fish.

Fight
Taste
Traumatogenic

Basic Information

Family

Ariidae

Max Size

30 cm

Habitat

marine, freshwater, brackish

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Warm months (April to September) in tropical regions

Best Time

Dusk to early night

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Cephalocassis melanochir

  • Use a light line and small hook to match the fish’s size.
  • Fish near mangrove channels and estuary mouths where the water is brackish.
  • Present live bait near the bottom and allow it to drift with the current.
  • Fish during high tide when the species moves into shallow feeding areas.

Top Fishing Locations for Cephalocassis melanochir

Mekong River (Vientiane stretch)

Laos
intermediate45% Occasional

The Mekong's lower reaches near Vientiane host abundant populations of Cephalocassis melanochir, especially in slower backwaters and tributary mouths.

Best: Nov - Mar

Chao Phraya River (Bangkok estuary)

Thailand
beginner65% Common

In the brackish estuary where the Chao Phraya meets the Gulf of Thailand, this catfish is plentiful and easily targeted from shore or small boats.

Best: Feb - May

Batang River (West Kalimantan)

Indonesia
expert30% Occasional

A remote river system on Borneo’s western side; the clear, flowing waters and abundant mudflats make it a prime but less‑visited spot for the species.

Best: Jun - Sep

Kapuas River Delta

Indonesia
intermediate50% Common

The expansive delta of the Kapuas offers extensive brackish channels where Cephalocassis melanochir congregate during the rainy season.

Best: May - Aug

Mahakam River (East Kalimantan)

Indonesia
expert25% Uncommon

Known for its rich fish biodiversity, the Mahakam’s lower reaches provide deep, slow‑moving sections ideal for targeting this catfish.

Best: Jul - Oct

Salween River (Mae Hong Son region)

Thailand
intermediate35% Occasional

High‑altitude tributaries of the Salween hold pockets of suitable habitat; reaching them requires a trek, but the payoff is sizable numbers of the species.

Best: Nov - Feb

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Cephalocassis melanochir

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 5–6 ft, fast action
Line4–6 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft‑plastic or rubber jig, 1‑2 inches
TechniqueBottom or drift fishing over muddy or sandy bottoms near mangrove roots

Best bait: Live shrimp, worms, or small crustaceans