Pacu, a close relative to the Piranha from the Amazon, is also commonly found in Malaysian payponds. They are known to have explosive speed when hooked so it's also great fun playing them. But they have sharp teeth that can cut your line so it's important that you have the right rig to catch them.
Gear: If you have mid-range priced gear, it's good enough. Just make sure your line is up to their pull. Anything that works for a Patin works for a Pacu. I recommend either a braided leader or wire leader as their teeth can chew through monofilament quite easily.
Tackle: Again, anything that works for Patin can work on Pacu. If you're not using a braided or wire leader like I do, just place your hook in a snap clip swivel and tie the swivel to your main line. This way they can't chew through the knots as there is only metal connecting your hook to the main line.
Bait: Pacu are not picky eaters. Anything from bread to pellets are in their diet. I recommend chicken hotdogs or innards as it mimics the actual food they eat in the wild. Earthworms and other insects also do the trick. But bear in mind, using meat, innards or insects eliminates your chances of catching a Patin. I recommend using bread, as you can target both species at the same time.
Technique: Once a Pacu is hooked, it will accelerate quickly, so set your hook by pulling it sharp upward, and use the same method as a Patin. Upright when it's swimming away from you, and reeling it when it is swimming towards you. They tire rather quickly but just keep in mind about that last minute burst before they are brought in. Keep your drag slightly loose when bringing them in.
Final thoughts: Fishing small Pacus are a great way to learn the mechanics of playing a fish as they hook up quite often and gives you a short but sweet fight. A detailed description of my rig will be uploaded later in the future.
No comments:
Post a Comment