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Eating Fishy in Zimbabwe

This is one of the largest of the genus in Zimbabwe waters. There appear to be two main colour types one with a uniform dark brown dorsal surface extending down the flanks - the other with large irregular blotches.

The size of fish found in the Zimbabwe waters is maximum of about 30 kg.

Although it prefers quieter stretches of water it will also forage in fast water and among rapids. Pools with hippo populations are favoured. It seems to be able to adapt in almost any body of water. They also appear to be able to survive in thick viscous mud for quite lengthy periods of time by breathing atmospheric oxygen. This is a survivor!

This is the only Zimbabwe fish species that has been recorded in all ten recognized river systems of the country and it is probably one of of the most numerous species in Zimbabwe and Southern Africa.

It will eat anything that move - and most that do not! Snakes, frogs, small crocodiles, fish, snails, shrimps, aquatic larvae and insects, grain seeds, fruit berries, birds both juvenile and adult. It has been known to hunt in packs encircling fish and chasing them into the shallows where they can be swallowed whole.

This fish id generally scorned by the angler as a sluggish fighter but it can under certain conditions provide thrilling sport. Fish mass together when hunting and a spoon cast into the shoal will ensure instant reaction and often the hooked fish will jump to throw the spoon. The normal angling practice is to bottom fish, in deep quiet pools, using a variety of baits from bird entrails to blue soap and meat. It is best to use heavy tackle .