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Red devil

Amphilophus labiatus

Red devil© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Red devil (Amphilophus labiatus) is a vibrant, medium‑sized cichlid native to Central American freshwater habitats. Anglers target it for sport rather than food, as it puts up a modest fight and is prized for its striking colors.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Cichlidae

Max Size

28.3 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

tropical

Best Season

May‑September (warm months)

Best Time

Early morning or late afternoon

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Red devil

  • Use light tackle; a 2‑4 lb test line is sufficient.
  • Target areas with cover such as submerged logs, rocks, or dense vegetation where the fish hide.
  • Present small live baits (e.g., earthworms, mosquito larvae) or tiny soft‑plastic jigs near the bottom.
  • Cast and allow the bait to drift slowly, then give a gentle twitch to trigger a bite.

Top Fishing Locations for Red devil

Lake Apoyo

Nicaragua
beginner88% Very Common

Crystal-clear crater lake famed for its native red devil population; easy access from the town of San Juan de Oriente and abundant baitfish support high catch rates.

Best: December-February

Lake Xiloá

Nicaragua
beginner85% Very Common

Large volcanic lake with rocky outcrops where red devils patrol the shallow littoral zones; popular day‑trip destination for local anglers.

Best: January-March

Lake Nicaragua (Southern Basin)

Nicaragua
intermediate62% Common

Vast freshwater lake where introduced red devils thrive near the sandbars of the southern basin; requires moderate boat handling skills.

Best: March-May

Lake Managua (Lake Xolotlán)

Nicaragua
beginner68% Common

Urban‑adjacent lake with several rocky reefs; red devils are abundant but water quality varies, demanding careful gear selection.

Best: February-April

Lake Arenal

Costa Rica
intermediate22% Uncommon

High‑altitude reservoir where red devils have been introduced for sport; accessible via paved road but requires a short hike to the best rocky coves.

Best: June-August

Lake Victoria (Western Shore)

Kenya
expert9% Rare

Large African lake where a small, self‑sustaining red devil population exists near the western shoreline; remote and requires extensive planning.

Best: October-December

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Red devil

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft‑plastic jig or micro spoon
TechniqueCast‑and‑retrieve near structure with a slow retrieve

Best bait: Live earthworms or mosquito larvae