Black Pacu

Black pacu are native to South America’s major river systems, including the Amazon and Orinoco Rivers. They inhabit slow-moving rivers, floodplains, lakes, and flooded forests, particularly in areas with abundant vegetation and overhanging trees that drop fruits and seeds into the water. The best time to target black pacu is during the dry season, from June to November, when water levels are lower, and fish are concentrated in accessible areas. During the wet season, they disperse into the flooded forests, making them harder to locate. Prime fishing destinations include the Amazon River in BrazilBrazil and Peru, the Rupununi River in Guyana, and parts of Venezuela and Colombia. Black pacus are often imported as aquarium fish as they are small, and are sometimes sold as piranhas. When they overgrow their aquariums, some careless owners release them into rivers and lakes, and they say you shouldn’t be surprised if you hook a black pacu in Florida. Some fishing resorts in Thailand also have them.

The black pacu (Colossoma macropomum), also known as the​​ Tambaqui, is a fascinating freshwater fish native to the Amazon and Orinoco River basins in South America. A member of the same family as the infamous piranha, the black pacu stands out with its much larger size and peaceful, plant-based diet. Black pacu is a deep-bodied fish with a distinctive rounded shape. It has dark scales that, unusually for aquatic animals, can be darker below than above. They have small eyes set close to the corners of their mouth. The mouth is bigger than it looks like when it’s closed, and equipped with teeth that resemble human teeth in shape, and powerful jaws that the black pacu use for cracking hard nuts and seeds. Black pacu are among the largest characins, capable of growing over 1 meter (3 feet) in length and weighing more than 30 kilograms (66 pounds). These fish are primarily herbivores, feeding on fruits, seeds, nuts, and aquatic plants, although they will occasionally eat small fish or invertebrates. They spawn pretty much all year round, with the juveniles floating along with vegetation downstream. Renowned for their strong fight and endurance, black pacu are a favorite among sport fishers. Their strong jaws can easily bite through many a line and leader, adding to the challenge of the catch. They are also highly valued as a food fish in their native range due to their firm, flavorful meat, which is a staple in Amazonian cuisine.

Catching black pacu requires both patience and ingenuity, as their diet and habitat differ significantly from other large freshwater species. Bait fishing is the most effective method, with natural baits such as fruits, nuts, corn, or dough balls imitating their preferred food. Presenting these baits near overhanging vegetation or around submerged structures where Pacu are likely to feed can greatly improve your chances. Medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting tackle is recommended, as these fish are powerful fighters that will test your gear. Use strong hooks and abrasion-resistant lines, as their strong jaws and sharp teeth can easily damage weaker equipment. For anglers seeking an added challenge, fly fishing for black pacu with fruit-shaped flies or poppers can be both effective and rewarding. Patience is key, as these fish often nibble cautiously before committing to a strike. Once hooked, they offer a thrilling fight with strong, steady runs and impressive stamina. With their unique diet, immense size, and spirited fight, as well as the challenge they present to anglers, the black pacu is a bucket-list species for anglers exploring South America’s freshwater systems, offering an unforgettable fishing experience and a glimpse into the remarkable biodiversity of the Amazon.