MULLY (WALLAGO ATTU)

It is a very common fish that provides great sport and can be caught with a variety of tackle. Unfortunately, as it is considered excellent eating, very few anglers practise C&R therefore catch sizes and numbers are reducing yearly.

Habitat: Found across the Indian sub-continent in both rivers and lakes, even in very weedy and shallow water. Since it is an air breathing fish it is also found in stagnant pools that have low oxygen levels

A very aggressive predator, it feeds on crustaceans, fish, insects, frogs & small birds.

The most commonly found species in India are:

• Channa Marulius – Most commonly found in rivers and large lakes.
• Channa Striata – Most commonly found in lakes and village tanks.
• Channa Diplogramma – Found only in the South Western Ghats.

Methods: Can be caught on assorted lures, live & dead bait. The most exciting method is when fishing top water lures as it is not uncommon to see the fish approaching the surface lure.

Tackle: The ideal tackle set-up and lures will vary according to the type of lake / river one is fishing. Even though these fish do not put up long & dogged fights they tend to run into rocks and cover where they will wrap the line around obstructions causing break off’s – the reels should have sufficient drag to stop them getting into cover. Spoons, In-line Spinners, Spinner baits, Crank & Wake baits are very effective in open/clear water. Top water lures like frogs and buzz baits are most popular.