Loading map...
♥ Donate

Climbing perch

Anabas testudineus

Climbing perch© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The climbing perch (Anabas testudineus) is a hardy freshwater and brackish‑water fish found across South and Southeast Asia. Growing up to about 25 cm, it is prized locally for its mild flesh and its remarkable ability to survive out of water, making it a common target for small‑scale anglers.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Anabantidae

Max Size

25 cm

Habitat

freshwater, brackish

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Warm months (April‑October) and during the monsoon when water levels rise

Best Time

Early morning and night hours when insects are active

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Climbing perch

  • Use ultra‑light tackle – a 1.5‑2 m spinning rod with 2‑6 lb test line for the best sensitivity.
  • Present live bait such as mosquito larvae, earthworms, or small minnows near surface vegetation.
  • Fish near the edges of ponds or among submerged roots where the perch hides; a slow jig or a small soft‑plastic grub works well.
  • If using a hand line, keep the line slack and let the perch take the bait, then give a gentle but firm pull to set the hook.

Top Fishing Locations for Climbing perch

Kumarakom Backwaters

India
beginner75% Very Common

Extensive backwater network in Kerala teeming with climbing perch; easy access from Kochi and simple bait work makes it ideal for beginners.

Best: Oct-Feb

Mekong Delta – Cai Rang Floating Market Area

Vietnam
intermediate65% Common

River channels around the famous floating market host abundant climbing perch; local guides improve odds.

Best: Dec-Apr

Khao Sok National Park Lake

Thailand
intermediate55% Common

A pristine lake surrounded by limestone cliffs; dense vegetation provides perfect habitat for the species.

Best: Nov-Feb

Lake Toba

Indonesia
beginner70% Very Common

Largest volcanic lake in the world with clear waters; climbing perch thrive near the shoreline vegetation.

Best: Jun-Aug

Mahaweli River – Polonnaruwa Section

Sri Lanka
beginner60% Common

Major river stretch with slow‑moving waters and abundant surface vegetation; popular among local anglers.

Best: Mar-May

Kapuas River, West Kalimantan

Indonesia
expert45% Occasional

Remote stretch of Borneo’s longest river; pristine habitat but requires logistical planning and advanced skills.

Best: May-Sep

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Climbing perch

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 1.5‑2 m, ultralight to light action
Line2‑6 lb (0.9‑2.7 kg) test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeTiny soft‑plastic grub or micro jig, 1‑2 cm
TechniqueLight spin or hand‑line with a slow retrieve near surface vegetation

Best bait: Live mosquito larvae, earthworms, small shrimp or minnows