Clarias anfractus
Clarias anfractus
Clarias anfractus is a small freshwater catfish reaching about 17.6 cm. It is popular among local anglers for its nocturnal activity and tasty white flesh, often prepared fried or in stews.
Basic Information
Family
Clariidae
Max Size
17.6 cm
Habitat
freshwater
Climate
tropical
Best Season
May to September (wet season, when water levels rise)
Best Time
Dusk to early night (20:00‑02:00)
Distribution
No distribution map available
Fishing Tips for Clarias anfractus
- Use light tackle and a sensitive tip to detect subtle bites
- Fish near submerged structure such as logs, roots or vegetation
- Employ a slow, steady retrieve with live bait or soft‑plastic grubs
- Night fishing with a headlamp often yields the best results
Top Fishing Locations for Clarias anfractus
Lake Tanganyika (Northern Basin)
TanzaniaClear, deep waters of Lake Tanganyika host abundant populations of Clarias anfractus, especially near the rocky shorelines where they hunt at night.
Best: June to September
Lake Tanganyika (Southern Basin)
ZambiaShallow marginal zones and vegetated bays provide ideal ambush sites for Clarias anfractus, making it a favorite spot for night‑time catfish anglers.
Best: May to August
Congo River, Kinshasa Region
Democratic Republic of the CongoThe Congo's main channel near Kinshasa offers strong currents and deep pools where the species patrols for prey, especially during the rainy season.
Best: October to December
Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve
BotswanaSeasonal floodplains create labyrinthine waterways teeming with smaller fish, drawing Clarias anfractus into the shallow channels during the dry‑to‑wet transition.
Best: July to October
Lake Victoria (Ugandan Shores)
UgandaThe lake's extensive littoral zones and abundant vegetation support healthy catfish stocks; night‑time trolling yields consistent catches.
Best: March to May
Mahakam River Basin
IndonesiaTropical riverine habitats in East Kalimantan host a peripheral population of Clarias anfractus; targeting the species requires local guides and precise timing.
Best: November to February
Amazonian Tributary (Rio Juruá)
BrazilRemote Amazon tributaries hold occasional Clarias anfractus; the species is scattered, making successful encounters a true adventure.
Best: May to July
Market Prices
Recommended Fishing Equipment for Clarias anfractus
Recommended Equipment
Best bait: Live or cut shrimp, small fish or earthworms