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Cyphocharax ivo

Cyphocharax ivo

Cyphocharax ivoAI-generated illustration

Cyphocharax ivo is a tiny freshwater catfish native to South American rivers. Reaching only about 5.2 cm, it is often overlooked but popular among hobbyist anglers seeking small‑mouth species for catch‑and‑release. Its slender body and nocturnal habits make it a good indicator of healthy water conditions.

Fight
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Basic Information

Family

Curimatidae

Max Size

5.2 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year‑round, with peak activity during the warm rainy season (May‑October)

Best Time

Dawn and dusk, when the fish move to feed near the surface

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Cyphocharax ivo

  • Use ultra‑light gear – 2‑4 lb test line and a 4‑6 ft ultralight spinning rod
  • Tie on size 6‑8 mm split‑shot and a tiny hook (size 10‑12)
  • Live bait such as mosquito larvae, tiny shrimp, or daphnia works best
  • Cast slowly into shaded vegetation or near submerged roots and retrieve with a gentle stop‑and‑go motion

Top Fishing Locations for Cyphocharax ivo

Amazon River – Near Manaus

Brazil
intermediate75% Very Common

Main channel of the Amazon where Cyphocharax ivo congregates around submerged woody debris during the low-water season.

Best: June-August

Rio Negro – Anavilhanas Archipelago

Brazil
beginner68% Common

Blackwater tributary with abundant leaf litter; ideal for targeting Cyphocharax ivo at night.

Best: July-September

Ucayali River – Near Pucallpa

Peru
intermediate70% Very Common

Upper Amazon tributary with strong currents; fish are active during the rising water period.

Best: April-June

Putumayo River – Near Leticia

Colombia
expert55% Common

Border river with diverse habitats; Cyphocharax ivo found around submerged roots in mid‑river channels.

Best: May-July

Maranhao Coastal Lagoon – Baía de São Marcos

Brazil
beginner40% Occasional

Brackish lagoon where seasonal influx of Amazon waters brings Cyphocharax ivo; requires tide‑aware timing.

Best: September-November

Lake Maracaibo Tributary – Río Catatumbo

Venezuela
intermediate30% Occasional

Freshwater tributary feeding the lake; known for occasional schools of Cyphocharax ivo during the dry season.

Best: March-May

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Cyphocharax ivo

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, fast action, 4‑6 ft
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro jig or tiny soft plastic grubs, 1‑2 mm
TechniqueLight jigging or quiet drift with live bait near cover

Best bait: Live mosquito larvae, tiny shrimp, daphnia or other microscopic aquatic insects