The payara
The payara is a carnivorous fish found in South America, mainly in Colombia, Brazil and Venezuela. Its head and its so particular dentition, which is worth to him the nickname of vampire fish, makes it easily recognizable. It is part of the Cynodontinaes family, which includes several very similar species. Species which all have the same particularity: the two long canines on their lower jaw.
These canines are used to seize their prey. Thus, the payara does not try to gobble its prey. This makes it complicated to fish with a lure, because it causes a lot of bites and is difficult to hook. Moreover, its teeth are able to push back if it is brought to lose some.
The payara, the largest representative of the family Cynodontinaes, can reach a dozen kilograms and exceed one meter in length. It has a gray body, composed of small scales, a large black tail at its end, and large eyes, which allow it to hunt in the dark.
Place of life
It is a fish which appreciates the zones subjected to the current, where it hunts and finds oxygen. It is therefore found in currents and shallower areas, devoid of vegetation. It appreciates clean bottoms, made up of rocks or sand.
Activity
Mornings and evenings are the best times to find hunting payaras. Overcast or rainy weather can be interesting conditions to activate the fish.
Handling of the payara
The tail offers a first good grip to seize the fish. Concerning the second hand, it can be placed under the head, but it is possible to take them in the manner of a pike, by sliding a hand under the operculum.
In both cases, you really have to be careful with your teeth, because they are not only sharp, but they are also sharp on the sides.
