There are quite a number of ponds and lakes in Malaysia where you can fish for pacu, that unassuming powerful freshwater fish that leave every first-time-hooker in shock and awe.
But the pacu fish in Empangan Air Kuning (EAK) are special (compared to most other ponds in Malaysia) – they will naturally eat dry flies! And you can see them coming up to eat your fly!!
And that, is what it can be all about for some anglers – seeing that fish eat your dry fly naturally. Even if it is just that one fish for the day, it can be so rewarding and satisfying.
Watch the video below of pacu feeding in EAK
The fact that EAK surrounds you with wild rainforest greenery and fresh air within the city is a real bonus. Sounds of birds fill the air throughout the day and don’t be surprised if you see wildlife such as monkeys, wild boars, snakes, etc.
There are the added bonus of catching other fish here such as the odd sebarau (hampala barb), peacock bass, and at times there can be quite a few toman (giant snakehead) around.
Scroll down to the bottom of the post to watch a video on EAK.
When Is The Best Time?
The best time are usually early part of the morning and at times towards the evening. If left on their own without anyone bait fishing, having them eat dry flies naturally can be had all day. This rhythm is sometimes interrupted by bait anglers who bait and chum the water causing the fish to hone in on their chum and soon become wary.
As a result, timing can be important if you are one who prefers to catch pacu without any “aid”. That means getting to EAK early and avoiding weekends and holidays when a crowd is usually present.
Boat Option
If there is a crowd, one thing we can do is take the boat out. Paddle out to the quieter areas, stay there quietly and wait to see if you can spot rises. Once you do, cast you fly to them.
It is also possible to intercept cruising fish and place the fly ahead of the fish’s path. They will often eat the fly if they see it. Very visual fishing and extremely exciting.
What Flies Work?
Some of the flies that have proven to work are hoppers, klinkhammers, cricket and other bug-like imitations.
Try to tie the flies using long shank hook or you will experience plenty of bite offs.
You may also use a very short wire trace. This however may hamper the way the fly floats and needs a re-tie after every eat.
If you’re lucky enough to have fish actively taking your dry flies and then suddenly go quiet, switch to wet flies such as nymphs and wooly buggers. You can usually get some that way and then switch back to dries when they start rising again.
Good luck and have fun!
Empangan Air Kuning is located in Taman Botani Negara, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia.
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