Top Jaguar Guapote Fishing Countries

The Jaguar Guapote (Parachromis managuensis), also known as the jaguar cichlid, is a striking freshwater fish native to Central America, particularly found in lakes, rivers, and reservoirs of Nicaragua, Honduras, and Costa Rica. Recognized for its distinctive spotted pattern resembling a jaguar, this predatory species is sought after both by local subsistence fishers and sport anglers due to its aggressive nature and fighting ability. Nicaragua stands out as the top country for Jaguar Guapote fishing, especially in Lake Managua and Lake Nicaragua, where the species is both a traditional food source and a target for recreational fishing tourism. Honduras and Costa Rica also have established local fisheries and attract anglers to their inland waters. While not a major export commodity, the Jaguar Guapote supports regional economies through local consumption, small-scale commercial sales, and ecotourism, making it an important species in Central American freshwater fisheries.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.