Piraíba - Brachyplatystoma filamentosum & B. capapretum

The River Monster of the Amazon

Piraíba - Brachyplatystoma filamentosum & B. capapretum

The River Monster of the Amazon

The piraíba is the largest catfish in the Amazon basin—and one of the largest freshwater fish in the world. A true giant of the deep, this migratory predator can reach lengths of nearly 10 feet and weigh over 400 pounds. These massive fish are known for their brute strength, extreme stamina, and deep, slow power, making them a holy grail for serious catfish anglers.

Two species share the “piraíba” name: Brachyplatystoma filamentosum, the more widespread and commonly encountered variety, and B. capapretum, its darker-colored relative known as the “blacktail piraíba.” Although similar in behavior, the two species differ slightly in appearance and distribution. Both can be caught in deep, swift channels of the Amazon's major river systems—especially during the dry season when water levels are low and fish concentrate in known feeding zones.

Interesting Facts & Notes

  • The piraíba can weigh over 440 lbs, with verified world records of 341 and 341.5 lbs in Brazil.

  • Juveniles are often called filhotes or piratinga, and are sometimes confused with other large catfish.

  • Piraíba are true long-distance migrators, traveling thousands of kilometers from headwaters to estuaries.

  • The species’ name means “thread-finned,” referencing the long trailing filaments of the caudal fin.

  • B. capapretum, described in 2005, is primarily found in the middle to upper Rio Negro and is characterized by darker coloration and a more streamlined body.

Piraiba

Where to Catch

You can target piraíba on the following Acute Angling trips:

  • Xingu River — Deep holes and strong channel currents ideal for monster catfish.

  • Rio Aripuanã — Multi-species hotspot with excellent piraíba potential.

Quick Facts

Attribute Description
Scientific Name Brachyplatystoma filamentosum, B. capapretum
Common Names Piraíba, Filhote, Piratinga, Blacktail Piraíba
Size Range Commonly 100–250 lbs; up to 400+ lbs
Region Amazon Basin (Rio Madeira, Rio Negro, Tocantins, Solimões, Aripuanã, Xingu)
Habitat Deep river channels, confluences, and fast-moving mainstem pools
Behavior Migratory predator; long-distance seasonal movement
Coloration Gray to silver body; blacktail species has darker tones and fins
Aggression Low to moderate – relies on ambush and opportunism
Feeding Habits Piscivore – preys on large baitfish and catfish
Gamefish Status Legendary – considered the most powerful catfish in the Amazon
Edibility Occasionally eaten by locals, but rarely targeted for food due to rarity and conservation awareness

Physical Appearance

Adult piraíba are thick-bodied and powerfully built, with broad heads and long, paddle-like tails. Their caudal fins often feature long trailing filaments, especially in B. filamentosum. B. capapretum exhibits darker pigmentation and is typically more slender. Both species have long maxillary barbels used to detect prey in deep, murky waters.

How to Identify

  • Filhote (juvenile) – Light gray body with faint banding and longer barbels.

  • Adult Piraíba – Thick-bodied, rounded head, lighter coloration, silver-gray skin.

  • Blacktail Piraíba (B. capapretum) – Darker coloration, especially on tail and fins; body more streamlined.

piraiba fishing

Fishing Tactics: How to Catch Piraíba

Recommended Techniques

  • Anchor-and-drop: Use heavy tackle to fish deep channels with strong current.

  • Drift fishing: Present cut bait slowly along structure, ledges, or bottom depressions.

  • Spot-and-hold: Once hooked, be prepared for a drawn-out, punishing battle—piraíba rarely surface quickly and can strip line for minutes on end.

Suggested Gear

  • Rod & Reel: Extra-heavy conventional rods with strong drag saltwater reels (e.g., Penn International or Shimano Tiagra).

  • Line: 130–200 lb braided line with 200+ lb mono or wire leader.

  • Terminal Tackle: 16/0–20/0 circle hooks, sliding sinkers (4–16 oz depending on current), strong swivels.

  • Bait: Large chunks of piranha, peacock bass, or small catfish.

Join the Adventure

Ready to take on the Amazon’s most powerful freshwater fish? Join us on a world-class catfish adventure and test your strength against a true river monster.

Contact us today:

📞 (866) 832-2987

📧 [email protected]

Related Reading

References

  • Lundberg, J. G., & Akama, A. (2005). Brachyplatystoma capapretum, a new species of giant catfish.

  • Goulding, M. (1981). Amazon: The Flooded Forest.

  • Santos et al., 2006.

  • Ferreira et al., 1998.

  • Barthem & Goulding, 1997.

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

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