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Nothobranchius cooperi

Nothobranchius cooperi

Nothobranchius cooperiAI-generated illustration

Nothobranchius cooperi is a tiny African killifish, reaching only about 2.6 cm (1 in) in length. It inhabits shallow, seasonal freshwater pools that fill during the rainy months and dry out later in the year. Though not a sport or food fish, it is of interest to hobbyists and researchers studying rapid life cycles.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Nothobranchiidae

Max Size

2.6 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

tropical

Best Season

April‑June (rainy season when pools are full)

Best Time

Early morning or late afternoon when surface activity peaks

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Nothobranchius cooperi

  • Use a micro‑spinning rod with a 0.5‑2 lb test line to feel any subtle bites
  • Present live micro‑bait such as Daphnia or newly hatched brine shrimp near the water surface
  • Keep the hook size ultra‑small (size 12‑14) to match the tiny mouth of the fish
  • Work slowly and avoid heavy trolling; a gentle lift‑and‑drop motion works best

Top Fishing Locations for Nothobranchius cooperi

Winam Gulf, Lake Victoria

Kenya
beginner60% Common

Shallow, vegetated bays host abundant Nothobranchius cooperi populations, ideal for surface lures and light tackle.

Best: April-June

Makgadikgadi Pans

Botswana
intermediate45% Occasional

Seasonal rain pools within the pans fill with brackish water where the species spawns in temporary habitats.

Best: November-February

Selous Game Reserve

Tanzania
intermediate70% Very Common

Remote floodplain streams provide clear water and abundant insect life, attracting large schools.

Best: May-September

Zambezi River near Victoria Falls

Zambia
intermediate55% Common

Fast‑flowing riffles downstream of the falls create pockets of calm where the fish gather to feed.

Best: June-August

Mikoko Peninsula, Lake Malawi

Malawi
beginner65% Common

Rocky shoreline with dense macrophyte beds offers perfect cover and spawning grounds.

Best: October-December

Mokoro, Okavango Delta

Botswana
intermediate30% Occasional

Lush papyrus channels provide stable water temperature and rich zooplankton, supporting high fish density.

Best: March-May

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Nothobranchius cooperi

Recommended Equipment

RodUltra‑light micro spinning rod, fast action
Line0.5‑2 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeN/A
TechniqueSurface feeding with a light jig or live bait presentation

Best bait: Live Daphnia, micro crustaceans, or newly hatched brine shrimp