Fish of the Pantanal: 7 Types and How to Catch Each One

Fellow knifemaker, this post is for you who love fishing! That's because today's topic is the diversity of fish in the Pantanal, a region with incredible landscapes, in addition to a unique biome!

Pantanal fishing is very famous in Brazil and worldwide, as the region welcomes tourists who enjoy sport fishing. In fact, we've already talked about this here on the blog, in a post where we told you everything you need to know to fish in the Pantanal.

Did you know that there are more fish there than in all the rivers of Europe combined? That's right. Therefore, we will bring you 7 species of fish that you can find there!

Pantanal fish: types to find in the region

It is estimated that there are at least more than 250 different types of fish in the region. If you are considering a fishing trip, know that you will find everything — from smaller fish to the most difficult-to-catch big ones.

1. Piranha

One of the most feared fish in the Pantanal, the piranha, being carnivorous, represents a threat to fishermen due to its aggressiveness. So, if you are going to venture into the rivers there, be careful.

Known for having a shorter and flatter body, with small scales and a prominent lower jaw, piranhas also have very sharp teeth, capable of causing injury. It is not by chance that piranhas are famous for feeding on larger fish — and even other animals.

If you want to fish for this species, it is necessary to find quiet places. This is because they swim in groups, calmly, practically motionless, to ensure a strike on their prey. It is also worth mentioning that they prefer warm and deep waters.

2. Pintado

The pintado is another very famous Pantanal fish, considered noble, for having very tasty meat and few bones — making its consumption easier.

In the Pantanal, it is common to find species approximately 40 kg and 1.5 m. It is one of the fish that you will be able to catch in larger rivers, casting your baits deep, because they prefer calmer waters. The bait for fishing pintado can be artificial or natural.

Also read: how to choose a survival knife?

3. Pacu

A type of Pantanal fish that is also well known throughout Brazil. There are several species of Pacu in the region, but the most famous is the one whose appearance resembles an oval disc, measuring about 50 cm in length.

It is a fish that can weigh up to 8 kg — and that fights a lot when hooked. So, be prepared to give line and bet on different baits, such as small fruits, grains, organic debris, sausage, earthworms... and they usually stay on the surface, just waiting for something to fall into the water.

The Pacu is smart and will nibble on the bait before swallowing it completely, so our tip for fishing is to wait for the line to be pulled, then reel in. If you rush, you might scare the fish away.

Also read: Fishing tips: how to clean fish correctly?

4. Catfish

Another symbolic fish of the Pantanal! Catfish normally weigh around 2 kg, not exceeding 30 cm in length.

It is a species that has spines, so it is important to know this to handle it. You will find it in riverbeds and in muddier waters, where they like to stay.

It is a nocturnal fish that guides itself by touch and smell, very little by sight. So, when using bait, prefer natural ones with a strong odor.

5. Dorado

Known as the "king of the river," the dorado is one of the largest fish you can find in fresh water, reaching up to 1.60 m and weighing up to 20 kg. And, because it is so magnificent, it is the symbolic fish of the Pantanal.

As the name suggests, the Dorado has a yellowish color, dark stripes along its body, and a spot on its tail. It's the fish every angler wants to catch, but it's not simple: be prepared to fight, it doesn't give up easily.

Do you know how to find it more easily? By staying closer to currents, away from the banks. The best times to fish for dorado are early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

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6. Jaú

The jaú is a scaleless leather catfish! It is one of the largest freshwater fish that can reach over 1.5 m in length and weigh 100 kg!

To hook a jaú, the best option is with natural baits, as it mainly feeds on smaller fish. Oh, try going out at night, as it is a nocturnal and deep-dwelling fish.

7. Barbado

Pantanal barbel fish can measure up to 1.20 m and weigh around 3 to 5 kg! Their diet is basically made up of other fish, which is why they are only caught with natural baits, such as fish and shrimp.

It is also known to fight when hooked, making it a good challenge for those who enjoy fishing, especially due to its strength. The best times to fish for this species are at dawn or during the night.

If you're going out after sunset, learn how to protect yourself by choosing a good survival pocket knife.

So, did you enjoy learning a little more about the diversity of fish in the Pantanal? Do you have any stories about the fish in the Pantanal region? Let us know in the comments!

Taking advantage of the topic of fish, we recommend reading the post that provides tips for making your own sushi, be sure to check it out.

Keep following our blog and until the next post.