Arapaima gigas
An introduced Amazonian giant that has become a star attraction at Southeast Asian fishing parks, especially in Thailand. Arapaima are air-breathing behemoths that roll on the surface, eat baits and lures, and give raw, powerful fights. Catching one is a bucket-list experience at managed lakes.
Arapaima are targeted at managed lakes with dead or live baits and large lures, often after spotting them roll to gulp air. Present a bait near patrolling fish on very strong tackle, set hard into their bony mouth, and prepare for a slow, heavy, spectacular fight. Handling requires venue staff and proper equipment.
Guide data is editorial and general — conditions, regulations, and fish behavior vary by water. Photo: Wikipedia — Arapaima.
Use these field marks and context clues to separate arapaima from similar fish before logging or keeping one.
Match a rig to Arapaima with the Setup Builder, or browse all setups.
Where used, position quietly near active fish and present baits.
Bank fishing at venues, presenting baits to rolling and patrolling fish.
An introduced giant found at managed fishing lakes across the region, cruising open water and margins and surfacing to breathe.
Arapaima have a huge elongate body, bony head, and red-scaled tail; nothing else at the venue reaches their size and surface-rolling habit.
Size limits, bag limits, seasons, and gear rules change every year and differ by country and province (and often by individual water). Always verify with the official source before keeping fish.
