Arapaima
(Arapaima gigas)

Other common names:
Giant arapima.
Pirarucu.
Wararapaima.

Identification:
Forward part of upper body with large olive green scales.
Near the tail, the scales have a reddish tint with a bright red edge.
Very wide back and a sloping flat head with a overshot lower jaw.
Long and low dorsal and anal fins, near the tail.

Typical location:
Drifting near the surface in calm water.
Resting on sandy bottom with submerged plants.

Fishing methods:
Casting minnow lures.
Live or dead prawns, mullet, herring, telapia, catfish or fish fillet.

Fighting characteristics:
Extremely powerful fighter with a fast strike followed by a endless hard pull.
Despite its size, a very athletic fish, which can jump clear of the water.

Thai Fishing Guide's recommended hot spots for catching Arapaima: