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Pangasius mahakamensis

Pangasius mahakamensis

Pangasius mahakamensisAI-generated illustration

Pangasius mahakamensis is a small catfish native to the Mahakam River system in Indonesia, found in fresh and slightly brackish waters. It grows to about 18 cm and is popular among local anglers for its tasty, white flesh and abundant numbers.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Pangasiidae

Max Size

18.2 cm

Habitat

freshwater, brackish

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Warm/ rainy months (April‑September in its native range)

Best Time

Dawn and dusk, with night fishing also productive

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Pangasius mahakamensis

  • Use a light 1‑2 oz sinker to keep the bait near the bottom without spooking the fish
  • Fish over sandy or muddy bottoms near submerged vegetation where the catfish hide
  • Present live or freshly cut bait slowly to trigger a strike
  • Check local regulations as this species may be subject to size or bag limits

Top Fishing Locations for Pangasius mahakamensis

Mahakam River – Samarinda Stretch

Indonesia
beginner72% Very Common

The lower Mahakam River near Samarinda offers abundant Pangasius mahakamensis in deep channels and eddies, making it a premier spot for targeting this catfish.

Best: June-September

Upper Mahakam Tributary – Long Iyang

Indonesia
intermediate55% Common

Remote upper reaches of the Mahakam near the village of Long Iyang provide clear water and strong currents where larger specimens hide among boulders.

Best: May-October

Kayan River Delta – Tanjung Selor

Indonesia
intermediate42% Occasional

The brackish delta of the Kayan River offers seasonal migrations of Pangasius mahakamensis, especially during the rainy flush.

Best: July-December

Barito River – Banjarmasin Basin

Indonesia
expert31% Occasional

In the lower Barito near Banjarmasin the species is less common but can be found in deep pools and backwaters during high water.

Best: June-October

Batang Kuantan River – Pahang

Malaysia
expert17% Uncommon

Introduced populations thrive in the fast‑flowing sections of Batang Kuantan; anglers must navigate challenging rapids to reach the catfish holding areas.

Best: April-September

Tonle Sap Lake – Near Phnom Penh

Cambodia
intermediate6% Rare

Occasional stocking projects have placed Pangasius mahakamensis in Tonle Sap; catches are rare but prized by adventurous anglers.

Best: May-October

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Pangasius mahakamensis

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft‑plastic shrimp or minnow imitation; N/A if using live bait
TechniqueBottom fishing with a slip sinker and small jig

Best bait: Live shrimp, small worms, or mosquito larvae