Amazon Fish Encyclopedia
The Sharp Teeth Hunter
Wolf fish Trahira
Amazon
Fish Species Guide
Species Fact Sheet
Dog Fish Information
The Trahira, commonly known as the Dog Fish, is a ferocious, prehistoric-looking predator that dominates South America's freshwater ecosystems. With its razor-sharp teeth, powerful jaws, and aggressive nature, this fish is a top-tier ambush predator that strikes with lightning-fast speed. Known for its explosive attacks and brute force, the Dog Fish is a favorite among thrill-seeking anglers.
Catch Distribution
The estimated potential yield for Trahira is around 1,000 tons, with the Peruvian Amazon contributing the largest share at 64%. The Estuary region follows with 23%, while the Tocantins region accounts for 9% of the total yield.
Natural History
The majority of Trahira found in the main Amazonian fish markets belong to Hoplias malabaricus, though other species may be present in peripheral regions. Primarily piscivorous, Trahira also consume crustaceans. They are most commonly caught in the floodplain waters of whitewater rivers, but they are also abundant in blackwater and clearwater river systems.
Habitat & Distribution
Distribution of Trahira catch. Source: Barthem, R., Goulding, M. 2007. An unexpected ecosystem: the Amazon as revealed by fisheries. Missouri Botanical Garden Press.
Trahira are incredibly adaptable and can thrive in almost any freshwater environment. Unlike most fish, they can survive in low-oxygen environments by gulping air, allowing them to thrive even in isolated pools during the dry season.
- • Slow-moving currents
- • Perfect ambush spots
- • Rich in prey species
- • Natural cover
- • Prime ambush locations
- • Abundant prey
- • Air breathing ability
- • Survives low oxygen
- • Isolated pools
Behavior & Diet
The Dog Fish is a relentless hunter with a voracious appetite, attacking anything that moves in its territory. They wait motionless before exploding forward with a devastating bite, making them one of the Amazon's toughest predators.
- • Primary prey
- • Ambush attacks
- • Aggressive pursuit
- • Frogs and small turtles
- • Easy targets
- • Common prey
- • Opportunistic feeding
- • Surface strikes
- • Regular diet
- • Fallen prey
- • Surface attacks
- • Opportunistic catches
Their dagger-like teeth can tear through bait and even slice fishing lines, making them formidable ambush predators that strike with incredible force.
Fishing Techniques & Best Practices
Catching a Dog Fish is a battle of strength and patience. These fish are notorious for their powerful headshakes and ability to break leaders, making them a challenging and exciting target for anglers.
Best Techniques
- Topwater Lures: Poppers, buzzbaits, and stickbaits for explosive strikes
- Live Bait: Small fish or frogs work exceptionally well
- Jigging & Soft Plastics: Large swimbaits near cover
- Spinnerbaits & Crankbaits: Used in murky water
Recommended Gear
- Rod: Medium-heavy to heavy baitcasting rod (30-60 lb test)
- Reel: High-drag baitcasting or spinning reel
- Line: Braided 50-80 lb test for strength
- Leader: Wire leader (40-100 lb test) to prevent bite-offs
Fight Characteristics
Expect aggressive headshakes, violent strikes, and deep dives into cover. Their powerful jaws and sharp teeth make them a formidable opponent that requires both skill and proper gear to land successfully.
Conservation & Sustainability
The Dog Fish is not endangered, but habitat destruction and overfishing in some areas have impacted populations. Many fishing operations encourage catch-and-release practices to maintain healthy numbers, and some regions impose bag limits due to their slow growth rate.
Best Practices for Catch & Release
Use single hooks to reduce injury
Remove hooks safely to avoid teeth
Their teeth are razor-sharp!
Minimize time out of water during release
Local Regulations
Due to their slow growth rate, some regions have implemented bag limits on Dog Fish. Always check local fishing regulations before heading out to ensure sustainable fishing practices are maintained.
Cultural Significance & Fun Facts
Armored Skull
The Dog Fish's skull is reinforced like armor, making it nearly indestructible in its underwater environment.
Air Breathing
It can survive out of water for extended periods, thanks to its remarkable ability to gulp air.
Local Delicacy
In some parts of South America, the Dog Fish is considered a delicacy, known for its firm, white meat.
Prehistoric Predator
Its prehistoric lineage dates back millions of years, making it one of the most primitive freshwater predators alive today.
