Barba-Chata

The Schooling Catfish of the Amazon Depths

Jaú - Zungaro zungaro

The Amazon’s Heaviest Deep-Water Predator

Among the many whiskered giants of the Amazon, the Barba-Chata stands out for its schooling behavior, elongated form, and willingness to strike both bait and lures. Also known as the piranambu or “barbado,” this catfish roams deep river channels and congregates in large groups—making for fast-paced action when a school is located. While not the largest catfish in the basin, it’s a favorite for light to medium tackle anglers due to its abundance, spirited fight, and year-round catchability.

Barba-Chata are opportunistic feeders with an aggressive, carnivorous appetite. They often travel in large shoals and can be caught in impressive numbers when the conditions are right. Despite their schooling nature, individuals can reach significant size, with specimens over 30 inches and 15 pounds not uncommon in prime waters. They’re especially active during the dry season and transitional periods when fish are concentrated in deeper areas.

Interesting Facts & Notes

  • The species name pirinampu comes from indigenous Tupi-Guarani, likely referring to its barbels ("barbas").

  • Known to school in the hundreds, especially in deeper river channels during seasonal migrations.

  • Though often caught in high numbers, this species is highly resilient and not considered vulnerable.

  • The elongated body and spotted patterning give it a unique profile among Amazon catfish.

Where to Catch

Barba-Chata are caught on several of Acute Angling’s Amazon fishing adventures that target deep-channel catfish or multi-species opportunities. These include:

Quick Facts

Attribute Description
Scientific Name Pinirampus pirinampu
Common Names Barba-Chata, Barbado, Piranambu
Size Range Commonly 5–15 lbs; up to 20 lbs or more
Region Amazon, Paraná, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Tocantins-Araguaia basins
Habitat Deep river channels, confluences, and large pools
Behavior Highly social; forms large schools and migrates seasonally
Coloration Silver-gray body with spotted sides and long barbels
Aggression Moderate – strikes bait readily, sometimes in feeding frenzies
Feeding Habits Carnivorous; feeds on fish, insects, and invertebrates
Gamefish Status Popular target due to abundance and strong fight
Edibility Considered good eating; commonly consumed by local fishermen
Barba-Chata

Physical Appearance

The Barba-Chata has a long, cylindrical body with a flattened head and prominent whiskers. Its most recognizable features are its long dorsal and pectoral fins and its extended barbels, which help it detect prey in deep or murky water. The silver-gray body often features dark spots or a mottled pattern along the sides. Individuals may exhibit pinkish hues along the fins or belly, especially when freshly caught.

How to Identify Barba-Chata

  • Barba-Chata / Barbado – Silver catfish with long, thin whiskers and a torpedo-shaped body

  • Piranambu – Another name for the same species, often used in the southern Amazon

  • Spotted catfish – Refers to the dark mottling sometimes seen on its sides

Fishing Tactics: How to Catch Barba-Chata

Recommended Techniques

  • Bottom Fishing: Drop fresh-cut bait (fish or shrimp) into deep channels or eddies and wait for the group to move through. Once one is caught, stay put—schools often linger.

  • Jigging: Metal jigs worked near the bottom can provoke reaction strikes when the fish are schooling.

  • Still Fishing: Especially productive with natural baits like worms or fish strips.

Suggested Gear

  • Rod and Reel: Medium-heavy spinning or baitcasting setup

  • Line: 40–60 lb braided main line with mono or fluorocarbon leader

  • Hooks: 8/0–10/0 circle hooks or strong J hooks

  • Weight: 1–3 oz sinkers depending on current and depth

Related Reading

Barba-Chata

Ready to Catch a Barba-Chata?

Join an Amazon catfishing adventure with Acute Angling and experience the thrill of catching these aggressive, schooling catfish in the heart of the rainforest.

Contact us today:

📞 (866) 832-2987

📧 [email protected]

References

  • Zeinad, A. K. & Prado, R. A. (2012). Peixes fluviais do Brasil: espécies esportivas.

  • Lundberg, J.G. & Littmann, M.W. (2003). Brachyplatystoma systematics and distribution.

  • Britski, H.A. et al. (2007). Peixes do Pantanal.

  • Santos, G.M. et al. (2006). Peixes comerciais do médio Amazonas.

  • Ferreira, E.J.G. et al. (1998). Biologia e ecologia de peixes da Amazônia.

  • Vazzoler, A.E.A. (1992). Biologia da reprodução de peixes tropicais.

(866) 832-2987