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African bonytongue

Heterotis niloticus

African bonytongue© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The African bonytongue (Heterotis niloticus) is a large freshwater fish native to rivers, lakes and reservoirs across sub‑Saharan Africa. It is prized for its firm, white flesh and is a popular table fish throughout the region. Though it can grow to impressive lengths, it puts up a relatively modest fight, making it suitable for most anglers.

Fight
Taste
Potential pest

Basic Information

Family

Arapaimidae

Max Size

100 cm

Max Weight

10.2 kg

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Wet season (May‑October) when water levels rise and fish move into floodplains

Best Time

Early morning and night, when the fish are most active

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for African bonytongue

  • Use live or fresh bait such as small fish, shrimp or earthworms; bonytongue are strong olfactory feeders
  • Fish near submerged trees, logs or rock piles where they hide during daylight
  • Try slow‑retrieved soft‑plastic or surface lures during low light periods
  • Employ a steady bottom‑drag or drift technique in deeper channels and increase retrieve speed when you feel a bite

Top Fishing Locations for African bonytongue

Lake Volta

Ghana
beginner75% Very Common

One of the world's largest reservoirs, teeming with African bonytongue throughout its vast freshwater expanse.

Best: November–February

River Niger (Bamako Stretch)

Mali
intermediate55% Common

The Niger's middle reaches near Bamako host abundant bonytongue populations, especially in slower backwaters and oxbow lakes.

Best: June–August

Upper Nile River (Jinja)

Uganda
intermediate65% Common

Clear stretches of the Upper Nile around Jinja are renowned for strong bonytongue numbers during the post‑rainy season.

Best: September–December

Lake Kainji

Nigeria
beginner70% Very Common

Formed by the Kainji Dam, this lake offers deep, slow‑moving waters where bonytongue congregate near submerged structures.

Best: March–May

Lake Chad

Chad
expert40% Occasional

Despite fluctuating levels, the lake's remaining habitats still support pockets of bonytongue, making it a challenging but rewarding target.

Best: October–January

Gambia River

The Gambia
beginner60% Common

The lower reaches of the Gambia River provide calm, vegetated zones where bonytongue are commonly found during the early rainy season.

Best: May–July

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for African bonytongue

Recommended Equipment

RodMedium‑heavy spinning or baitcasting rod, moderate to fast action
Line8‑15 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSoft‑plastic swimbaits, crankbaits, or surface poppers; N/A if using live bait
TechniqueBottom fishing or slow drifting with live bait, especially at dawn or after dark

Best bait: Live small fish, shrimp, earthworms, or cut bait