Freshwater
Payara
Hydrolycus scomberoides
- Peak season
- Dry season (October–March)
- Length range
- 30–100 cm
- Weight range
- 1–15 kg
- Typical depth
- 0–10 m
Habitat
Fast-flowing rivers, rapids, and below waterfalls in the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Thrives in strong current.
Behavior
Fearsome predator with massive fangs that impale prey. Strikes aggressively at fast-moving lures in white water.
Best techniques
- Heavy jigs in rapids
- Large spoons in current
- Fly fishing with heavy sinking lines
- Deep-diving crankbaits
