The fishing equipment necessary to fish for payara

Fishing for payara, what equipment? © Likid Fishing

The payara is a formidable opponent that should not be underestimated. The fishing equipment must be adapted to catch such a fish. Rod, reel, leaders and hooks to track the vampire fish.

Rod and reel

Concerning the fishing equipment for payara, a spinning set composed of a rod of H or XH power, of about 15/60 grams, accompanied by a reel in size 3000 or 4000 is what is commonly used. Given the strength of the fish, I would lean more towards using a reel in 4000 rather than 3000, but both are obviously possible.

Une canne spinning de puissance H ou XH est parfaite pour le payara.
An H or XH power spinning rod is perfect for payara.

To fill the reel, a braid in 30 or 40 pounds, gives a set that does not lose too much capacity to cast far. An important point to get fishes far away in the current, hence the need not to use a too big braid. It is for this same reason that I recommend a spinning set, rather than casting.

Bottom of the line

A steel leader is essential to resist the teeth of the payra. This one is made of steel with a resistance of 60 to 90 Lbs. A swivel at one end allows to connect it to the line body, and a broken ring at the other, allows to change easily the lure. Considering the strength of this fish, especially at the time of the attack, I strongly advise against the use of staples.

Bas de ligne en acier pour pêcher le payara.
Steel leader for fishing payara.

Hooks

As far as hooks are concerned, the choice is difficult. The mouth of the payara is hard, so we tend to favor triples to increase the chances that the fish will bite. However, this fish struggles and jumps a lot, which creates many stalls. Single hooks, on this second fact, are better adapted. So single or treble, you have to have both and adjust on the spot by finding what works best for you. Personally, I opt for single hooks.

Des bons hameçons sont primordiaux pour pêcher le payara.
Good hooks are essential to fish for payara.

In both cases, it is necessary to take hooks not too strong of iron, to support their insertion. Finally, do not forget to use a sharpening stone to maximize your success.

Fish pliers

A fish grip is useful for gripping fish, especially if you use treble hooks, because the payara struggles well and it is not easy to grab.

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