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Amazon Fish Encyclopedia
Red Tail Catfish
Amazon
Redtail Catfish Information
The Redtail Catfish is one of the most iconic and sought-after species in the Amazon. With its massive size, striking red-orange tail, and relentless strength, it’s a favorite among anglers looking for a serious fight. Known locally as Pirarara (Pee-Rah-Rah-Rah), this bottom-feeder is a scavenger that devours anything in its path, making it an exciting catch for both novice and experienced fishermen.
The estimated potential yield of the Pirarara is nearly 900 tons, with the majority coming from four key fishery regions, which account for 93% of the total yield. These regions include the Brazilian-Colombian-Peruvian Border (42%), Central Amazon (21%), Lower Amazon (17%), and Peruvian Amazon (13%).
The Pirarara is an omnivorous species, primarily feeding on fleshy fruits in flooded forests, while also consuming crabs and fish, especially during the low water season. Unlike some other species, it is not typically found in large schools, and its migration patterns remain uncertain. Juvenile Pirarara have never been observed in blackwater or clearwater rivers, leading to the hypothesis that they may migrate from blackwater and clearwater tributaries to whitewater rivers for spawning.
Distribution of Redtail Catfish catch. Source: Barthem, R., Goulding, M. 2007. An unexpected ecosystem: the Amazon as revealed by fisheries. Missouri Botanical Garden Press.
The Redtail Catfish thrives in deep holes, under submerged trees, and along riverbanks in South America's Amazon and Orinoco river basins. It prefers slow-moving waters and muddy riverbeds, where it can ambush prey. During the rainy season, they venture into flooded forests, hunting for fallen fruits, fish, and small creatures swept into the waterways.
Redtail Catfish are opportunistic feeders, using their highly sensitive barbels (whiskers) to locate food in dark, murky waters. They are mostly nocturnal, feeding aggressively at night when the water is cooler and prey is more vulnerable.
Most active during night hours, using their sensitive whiskers to navigate and hunt in dark waters.
Fishing for Redtail Catfish is an exciting test of strength and skill. These giants put up a serious fight, often running deep and using their power to resist being landed.
While the Redtail Catfish is not considered endangered, responsible catch-and-release practices are encouraged. Due to their size and slow growth rate, overfishing can impact their populations. Many fishing operations now practice sustainable angling, ensuring future generations of anglers can enjoy catching these incredible fish.
Reduces injury and makes release easier
Minimize time out of water during handling
Support belly, avoid gills when lifting
Ensure fish is strong enough to swim away
The Redtail Catfish is one of the only catfish species that has remained unchanged for millions of years!
In local Amazonian folklore, it is believed that catching a Redtail brings good luck and prosperity.
Unlike most catfish, the Redtail actively hunts and chases its prey rather than waiting for food to come to it.
It can make a low-pitched grunting noise by grinding its pectoral fins, which many anglers have heard when landing one.
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