Species guide
How to catch Three spotted tilapia
Oreochromis andersonii
freshwaterbrackishgame fishCichlidae
The Three spotted tilapia is a hardy cichlid native to African rivers and swamps. It adapts well to both fresh and moderately brackish waters, favoring slow or still waters with vegetation. This species grows up to 61 cm and is a popular game fish.
Where they live
Found in African freshwater and brackish rivers and swamps, often in slow-flowing or standing water with weed cover. Adults prefer deeper open waters, juveniles stay nearshore among plants.
Typical size
Up to about 61 cm
What they eat
- filamentous algae
- vascular plant fragments
- sandy mud particles
Best baits
- worms
- plant-based baits
- insect larvae
Best lures
- soft plastic lures
- small spinners
- jigs
How to fish for them
- bottom fishing
- float fishing near vegetation
- casting with light tackle
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