PAPUAN BASS & SPOT TAIL BASS

Papuan Black Bass (Lutjanus goldiei) is commonly known as, pound for pound, the strongest and dirtiest fighter on this planet. It’s actually a ‘freshwater’ snapper which inhabits(tidal) rivers, lakes and estuaries in Papua, New Guinea and parts of Indonesia. This fish has a reputation of smashing rods, getting anglers on their knees in a desperate attempt to stop a black bass trying to get back in its ambush spot full of timber. Papuan Black Bass can growto over 20 kg, but even a fish of 8-10 kg will get you most certainly in a lot of trouble. The ultimate challenge for adventurous anglers !

Spot Tail Bass (Lutjanus fuscescens) is a lesser known cousin of the mighty Papuan Black only found in freshwater in the upper parts of rivers and sometimes also in lakes. Theyare known for their explosive (topwater) attacks and highly celebrated for their striking goldenappearance and distinctive black spot, hence the name. They like clear, sometimes fast running rivers with dense timber and overgrown, undercut banks where they like to hide, waiting for a prey. They also can grow to over 20kg and the rivers we fish for them have produced some monster Spot Tail bass of world record size.

Rivers & Lakes

Our rivers and lakes here in Papua are home to very large Papuan Bass and Spot Tail Bass. Papuan Bass and Spot Tail Bass love to sit close to structure so the trick is to get your lure right in front of them! Casting poppers, stickbaits and swimbaits, large soft plastics, vibes, frogs and even flies will also get their attention, just hold on, these fish are often referred to as ‘scary’ and that rings true when you get your first hit. Their ambush tactics are legendary: one cast into heavy cover can trigger a strike so violent it feels like being hit with a hammer.

The fight is immediate, explosive, and often decided in the first few seconds.

Besides (tidal) rivers and estuaries, we are privileged to fish also lakes. Unlike rivers that rise and stain with seasonal rains, the lakes remain beautifully clear most of the time, offeringvisibility that few Black Bass habitats in the world can match. This clarity not only makes sight-fishing possible but also provides consistency — ensuring that even in flood season, anglers can enjoy world-class conditions.Spot Tail Bass loves their clear water from the mountains. Big Spot Tail Bass in clear streams are the ultimate test of skill and patience. In such transparent water, these giant predators see everything, so stealth and precise presentations are essential. Use strong yet subtle tackle: heavy fluorocarbon leaders, quality reels, and powerful rods to control surging runs intight current. Cast big, natural-coloured lures or live baits into deep pools, undercut banks, and around submerged timber where trophy fish ambush prey. Stay low, move quietly, and be prepared for long, explosive fights that push your gear and technique to the limit.

Key facts

- Diet: Apex predator – devours baitfish, crustaceans, and anything it can overpower

- Strike Power: Widely considered the hardest-hitting freshwater fish in the world

- Largest landed at Papua River Retreat:

Spot Tail Bass 22 kg+ with exceptional fish still roaming the lakes and rivers. Current IGFA

World Record: 20.87 kg.

Black Bass: a fish of 103 cm, weighing well over 24 kg. Current IGFA World Record: 21.68 kg.

- Habitat: Clear, jungle-fringed lakes with submerged timber, rocky outcrops, and deep channels.

What is the best season?

Fishing the rivers and estuaries, end of August to end of November is the prime season, but the lakes clarity and stability mean that there is no ‘off season’. Even when torrential rains turn rivers into torrents of mud, the lakes remain fishable — a true rarity in Papua.

Casting & Spinning:

• Rods & Reels: Extra-heavy baitcasting or spinning outfits capable of exerting maximum pressure.

• Lures: Large poppers, stickbaits, and deep-diving crankbaits for explosive reactions; big soft plastics to tempt fish holding deep.

• Line & Leaders: 80–100 lb braided line with equally strong abrasion-resistant leaders to survive punishing runs into cover.

Fly Fishing:

• Rod Weight: 10–12 weight fly rods to cast oversized streamers and provide brute lifting power.

• Flies: XXL streamers, deceivers, and bulky baitfish imitations designed to push water and provoke aggression.

• Leaders: 80–100 lb leaders essential to withstand the force of their strike and the abrasive environment.

TACKLE