Keli · Walking catfish group
Clarias spp. · species vary by region
Keli catfish occur in ponds, swamps, canals and slow freshwater. The exact species varies by place, and paid ponds may set bait and method rules.
Keli refers to several Clarias species; the photo is Clarias batrachus.
What it eats in the wild
Clarias catfish can eat insect larvae, worms, snails, small prawns, fish and plant matter.
Bait to try
Try worms or small prawns; at commercial ponds, follow the operator's bait rules.
Lures to try
Bait is usually the easier starting point; try a small soft plastic only if lures are allowed.
Starter setup
Use a simple bottom or float rig that keeps bait near the bottom. Carry pliers for safer hook handling.
Local names can vary
Common names and the exact species can vary by region and fishery. Treat bait and rig advice as starting points, follow venue rules, and adjust to current, tide and conditions.
Photo credit: Vassil · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons
Species reference: FishBase
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