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Hoedeman's Hypopygus

Hypopygus hoedemani

Hoedeman's HypopygusAI-generated illustration

Hoedeman's Hypopygus (Hypopygus hoedemani) is a tiny electric knifefish native to slow‑moving freshwater rivers of the Amazon basin. Reaching only about 5.9 cm, it is prized more by aquarium hobbyists than sport anglers, but can be caught with ultra‑light gear. Its nocturnal habits and weak fight make it an easy target for micro‑fishing.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Hypopomidae

Max Size

5.9 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year‑round, with peak activity during the rainy season (Nov‑Mar)

Best Time

Nighttime (dusk to dawn)

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Hoedeman's Hypopygus

  • Use ultra‑light gear (2‑4 lb test line) and a 10‑12 in ultralight rod to feel any subtle takes.
  • Fish over quiet, shaded backwaters or near submerged roots where the fish hide.
  • Employ tiny live baits such as micro‑worms or daphnia, or use a micro soft‑plastic jig the size of a pinhead.
  • Fish at night with a faint headlamp; the low light triggers their nocturnal foraging.

Top Fishing Locations for Hoedeman's Hypopygus

Marañón River

Peru
intermediate65% Common

A fast‑flowing tributary of the Amazon known for its clear waters and abundant electric knifefish, including Hoedeman's Hypopygus during the rainy season.

Best: June-September

Upper Amazon (Iquitos)

Peru
beginner55% Common

The blackwater stretches near Iquitos host dense vegetation and low‑oxygen habitats favored by Hypopygus species.

Best: May-August

Rio Negro

Brazil
intermediate70% Very Common

One of the world's largest blackwater rivers, its slow‑moving, acidic waters provide ideal conditions for Hoedeman's Hypopygus.

Best: July-October

Mamirauá Sustainable Development Reserve

Brazil
expert40% Occasional

Remote floodplain forest with intricate channels; expert anglers seek this spot for trophy‑size electric knifefish.

Best: September-November

Lake Tefé

Brazil
beginner30% Occasional

A large lake in the Amazon basin where seasonal water level changes concentrate Hypopygus in shallow bays.

Best: April-June

Yasuni River

Ecuador
intermediate45% Occasional

Pristine tributary of the Napo River, renowned among specialist anglers for its diverse electric fish community.

Best: June-September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Hoedeman's Hypopygus

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 10‑12 in, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro soft‑plastic jig or tiny spinner blade
TechniqueNight‑time drift or slow hand‑troll over leaf‑laden habitats

Best bait: Live micro‑worms, daphnia, or small aquatic insects