🐟 Kurper (Tilapia) – Species Profile
Title: Blue Kurper (Tilapia) – Species Profile
Slug/URL: /blue-kurper-tilapia
Category: Fish Species
Tags: kurper, blue kurper, tilapia, freshwater fish, South African fish, dam fishing, warmwater fishing, carp bait alternative, papgooi, Cyprinidae
🧾 Basic Info:
Common Name: Blue Kurper
Scientific Name: Oreochromis mossambicus
Also Known As: Mozambique Tilapia, “Kurper”
Family: Cichlidae
📍 Where to Find It:
Widespread in South African dams, rivers, and canals
Popular in Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KZN
Often found in same waters as carp
🎯 Best Fishing Methods:
Float fishing with earthworms or mielie pips
Micro lures or small spinners near structure (for fun sport)
Papgooi with small hooks and soft baits
Fly fishing with nymph patterns in clear, warm water
🕓 Best Time of Year:
Most active in spring and summer (Sept–Mar)
Slows down in winter months unless water stays warm
🎣 Recommended Tackle:
Light spinning rods with 4–6 lb line
Tiny hooks (size 8–12) with small floats
Barbless preferred for easy release
⚠️ Regulations:
Considered invasive in certain catchments
No bag limit in most public dams, but check locally
📚 Fun Fact:
Blue Kurper males turn bright blue with red-tipped fins during breeding — often seen in shallow nests near the shoreline.