The jaú, or pacamão, is one of the largest freshwater catfish in South America—and a true heavyweight of the Amazon basin. Found lurking in the deepest pools, channels, and riverbed drop-offs, this hulking predator is a challenge to locate and land, but a thrilling reward for those targeting Amazon giants. With its broad head, thick body, and incredible power, the jaú has earned a reputation among catfish anglers as one of the toughest battles in Amazon fishing.

Unlike the more mobile Piraíba, the jaú is a homebody—preferring well-defined territory near underwater structures like rocks, ledges, or submerged timber. Although primarily nocturnal, it can feed during the day, especially in fast-flowing sections of deep rivers or waterfalls. Targeting jaú requires patience, strength, and specialized gear—but when it takes your bait, you’ll know instantly that you’ve hooked into something formidable.