The Nile Perch (Lates nilocticus) is a freshwater fish species in the Percoidei family of order Perciformes (perch-likes). The Nile Perch is native to Africa and occur naturally throughout the Ethiopian region of Africa, in Lakes Albert, Turkana and Rudolph, in the brackish waters of lakes such as Lake Mariout and also occur commonly in all major river basins including the Nile, Chad, Senegal, Volta and Zaire.
The Nile Perch is introduced only to our private lake in Pathum Thani. Nile Perch flyfishing in Thailand is unique to Fly Fish Thailand.
Nile Perch Diet
Adult Nile perch feed on fish, larger crustaceans and insects. Juveniles of the species are herbivorous. Nile perch are also nocturnal feeders as is shown by their eyes and it is always worth fly fishing on well into darkness.
Nile Perch Identification
Nile perch are silver in colour with a blue tinge. They have a distinctive dark black eye, with a bright yellow outer ring. They are similar to barramundi, however Nile perch are capable of breeding in freshwater, whereas barramundi require seawater to breed. They have very large tail, the first dorsal is spine. One of the distinguishing things about Nile Perch is the size of their extending mouth. They in fact can catch prey at least three quarters their own size.
Age and Growth
Nile perch can live for up to 16 years and are sexually mature at 3 years of age. All Nile perch are born males and at 3 years of age turn into females. Perch move into shallow calmer areas to breed and large females can often be seen surrounded by groups of small males. Breading for the males is a dangerous time as the larger females are more likely to eat their smaller partners than mate with them.
Nile Perch Flyfishing in Thailand
Thailand Flyfishing Season: All year
Fly Fishing is becoming more popular for Nile Perch. For tackle you will need: Fly Rods - For Nile Perch 9 ft 9 to 11 weight. Saltwater fly rods have a better action and are stronger . Fly reels need to be able to hold a full spool of your chosen line weight and lots and lots of strong backing in the 30lb class. Flies are any tarpon, sailfish and marlin flies will work well as long as they are tied to strong hooks. Remember these fish are renowned for straighten hooks. Best colours are reds, whites, silver and blue.
The Nile Perch have adopted the same area of the lake as also preferred by the Peacock Bass. Recently, a Nile Perch was following a retrieved fly and a Peacock Bass snatched the fly away at the last moment.
Catch both a Barramundi and Nile Perch - which is the stronger fighter ?
BEWARE: Nile Perch have small sharp spines everywhere. We recommend custom fish handling gloves when holding them.