Clown Knifefish

[pee wee]

These have been all over Instagram. Where are they and what works??

[KritterGitter]

This is from FWC website.... Now as to what works????? Maybe best luck with live bait?  Cool lookin fish tho!

 

Clown Knifefish: Notopterus chitala Appearance:

 

Very distinct, flat, silvery fish with long anal fin that gives the knifefish its common name; tiny dorsal fin and 5-10 black spots ringed with white distinguish it from all other fish in Florida; juveniles possess dark vertical bands instead of spots; long anal fin equally allows for forward and backward movements.

Range:

Currently only found in Lakes Osborne, Ida, and their associated canals in southeast Florida. Native to tropical Asia--Indochina and Thailand.

 

Habitat:

 

Lakes, swamps, and river backwaters; young fish occur in schools among aquatic plants and submerged roots; adults tend to be loaners commonly found near shore in areas with overhanging vegetation or docks; utilizes air to survive in warm, stagnant waters with little oxygen.

 

Behavior:

 

Spawning Habitats: Reportedly spawning takes place in spring when females each lay thousands of eggs on the substrate or piece of wood; male cares for the eggs by fanning them with his tail, keeping them aerated and silt-free; later male reportedly protects hatched fry.

Feeding Habits: Feeds on a variety of prey including small fish, insects, and grass shrimp.

Age and Growth

Largest specimen documented in Florida was a 31-inch specimen weighing just under 10 pounds.

Sporting Quality

Limited, but its unique appearance and jumping skills make for an exciting catch.

Edibility

Bony, but commercially important in native range; flesh minced, made into balls, and cooked with curry.

 

State Record:

N/A

Fishing Tips and Facts:

 

Additional Information:

[KritterGitter]

Oh and there is this to....

 

http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/05/01/2863876/floridas-clown-knifefish-eye-popping.html

[SirSnookalot]

I do fish the areas they inhabit although I have never caught one.  The pictures I have seen posted were caught with live bait, with only 1 exception.  One of my friends caught a 15 pounder on an xrap, I saw the pic.