Salmon Catfish
The salmon catfish, Neoarius leptaspis, is a tropical species found in northern Australia and southern New Guinea. It thrives in diverse environments, including freshwater rivers, brackish estuaries, and coastal seas. Known for its strong fighting ability, it is a popular target among anglers. The species has a wide diet that includes fish, prawns, insects, and detritus.
Length~30 (max 60)
WaterFresh, brackish
Water Temp24-28° F
- Other namesBoofhead catfish, Freshwater forked tailed catfish, Lesser salmon catfish, Triangular shield catfish
- Length~30 (max 60)
- WaterFresh, brackish
- Water Temp24-28° F
Popular lures for Salmon Catfish
Regulation for Salmon Catfish
- SeasonAlways open
- Bag limit5
- Vessel limit-
- Trophy limits-
- Max size-
- Min size35 cm
- MeasurementTotal length
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Inhabits lakes, rivers, muddy coastal seas, and estuaries
- Often found in the upper reaches of streams and brackish estuaries
- Feeds on a variety of food sources including small fish, prawns, insects, and bottom detritus
- Prefers areas with muddy or sandy substrates where it can forage for food
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Breeding occurs between the late dry and early wet season, typically in coastal lagoons and flooded swamps
- Males incubate eggs orally until they hatch and protect the fry for several weeks
- Juveniles often remain in the sheltered waters of estuaries before moving to larger bodies of water
- During the breeding season, the species becomes more active, making it a prime target for fishing