Redtail Catfish
Phractocephalus hemioliopterus
Local / Portuguese name
Pirarara
Scientific name
Phractocephalus hemioliopterus
Typical size
Can exceed 100 lbs.
Habitat
Deep river channels, holes, and slower stretches throughout the Amazon basin.
More Detail
Unmistakable with its dark back, cream flanks, and vivid orange-red tail, the Redtail Catfish is as visually striking as it is powerful. A bottom-dwelling brawler, it tests heavy tackle and stamina in equal measure, and its size and coloration make it one of the most recognizable trophies an Amazon angler can bring boatside.
We don't book trips
Ready to fish the Redtail Catfish
We don't run trips. Our partner Infinity Angling holds the exact water, the dates and the operator — they'll build it for you.