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Clarias nigromarmoratus

Clarias nigromarmoratus

Clarias nigromarmoratus© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Clarias nigromarmoratus, commonly known as the black‑marbled walking catfish, is a small, nocturnal catfish native to freshwater rivers and swamps of Southeast Asia. It grows to about 17.6 cm (6.9 in) and is prized by local anglers for its aggressive bite and tasty flesh.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Clariidae

Max Size

17.6 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Warm rainy season (May–October) when water levels rise and insects are abundant

Best Time

Nighttime, especially around dusk and pre‑dawn hours

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Clarias nigromarmoratus

  • Use light tackle and a sensitive tip rod to feel subtle bites
  • Fish near submerged structures, roots, and dense vegetation where they hide
  • Bottom‑bounce soft‑plastic worms or live bait like small minnows close to the substrate
  • Fish during low light conditions; nightlights can attract them to the surface

Top Fishing Locations for Clarias nigromarmoratus

Sarawak River

Malaysia
intermediate68% Common

Renowned for abundant black‑marbled catfish in the lower reaches near Kuching; clear waters and abundant cover make it a prime target for anglers.

Best: Nov‑Feb

Kapuas River

Indonesia
beginner75% Very Common

The longest river in Indonesia, its deep pools and floodplains host dense populations of Clarias nigromarmoratus, especially during the dry season.

Best: May‑Oct

Mekong Delta (An Giang Province)

Vietnam
intermediate60% Common

Riverine channels and oxbow lakes in the Mekong Delta provide ideal habitats; local guides know the hot spots where catfish congregate.

Best: Dec‑Mar

Chao Phraya River (Bangkok outskirts)

Thailand
beginner55% Common

Well‑known among Thai anglers for night‑time catfish fishing; accessible from the capital with numerous charter services.

Best: Oct‑Jan

Mahakam River (East Kalimantan)

Indonesia
expert42% Occasional

Remote stretches of the Mahakam host large, wary black‑marbled catfish; requires a guide and a 4‑wheel drive to reach.

Best: Jun‑Sep

Danum Valley Conservation Area

Malaysia
expert25% Uncommon

Bucket‑list destination deep in Borneo’s rainforest; pristine tributaries harbor trophy‑size catfish but are hard to access.

Best: Nov‑Feb

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Clarias nigromarmoratus

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 5–6 ft, fast action
Line2–6 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSoft‑plastic grubs, small jigs, or live bait rigs
TechniqueBottom fishing with slow jigging or drift; night fishing works best

Best bait: Live earthworms, small minnows, or shrimp