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Cyphocharax aspilos

Cyphocharax aspilos

Cyphocharax aspilosAI-generated illustration

Cyphocharax aspilos is a small, slender freshwater catfish native to South American rivers. It is popular among hobbyists for its translucent body and active schooling behavior, though it is not a major target for sport fishing.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Curimatidae

Max Size

18 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Late spring to early summer (rainy season) when water levels rise and fish are most active.

Best Time

Early morning and late afternoon/dusk.

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Cyphocharax aspilos

  • Use ultra‑light tackle; a 2‑3 lb test line is sufficient.
  • Present a tiny live bait such as mosquito larvae or a small daphnia, or use a micro jig tipped with a single feather.
  • Fish near submerged vegetation, overhanging roots, or gentle currents where schools gather.
  • Keep a slow, erratic retrieve to mimic natural prey and avoid spooking the fish.

Top Fishing Locations for Cyphocharax aspilos

Rio Negro (Manaus Region)

Brazil
intermediate65% Common

Prime stretch of the Rio Negro near Manaus where Cyphocharax aspilos congregates in deep channel pools during the dry season.

Best: June - August

Madre de Dios River

Peru
expert55% Common

Remote tributary of the Amazon near Puerto Maldonado, known for large specimens of Cyphocharax aspilos in fast‑flowing sections.

Best: November - February

Orinoco River (Puerto Ayacucho)

Venezuela
intermediate70% Very Common

Upper Orinoco reaches provide structured habitats ideal for targeting this catfish during early rainy season.

Best: March - May

Napo River (Coca)

Ecuador
beginner45% Occasional

Accessible stretch of the Napo near Coca, offering shallow riffles where beginners can locate Cyphocharax aspilos.

Best: July - September

Xingu River (Altamira)

Brazil
expert30% Occasional

World‑renowned Xingu corridor with complex rock formations; expert anglers pursue the species during peak flow.

Best: August - October

Lake Maracaibo (Western Basin)

Venezuela
beginner20% Uncommon

Occasional sightings in the western basin; accessible for day trips but low encounter rates.

Best: December - February

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Cyphocharax aspilos

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line2‑3 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro jigs or tiny soft plastics; bright or natural colors work
TechniqueLight spin or float fishing with a small hook, targeting surface or mid‑water schools

Best bait: Live mosquito larvae, daphnia, or small aquatic insects (N/A if unavailable)