Zambezi. The Upper Zambezi in Southern Zambia is regarded as possibly the best place to target large tigerfish and nembwe and many other interesting fresh water fish species. The area’s record 19 kg tigerfish was taken upstream from the lodge - arguably the world record! The biggest on fly in the area is 14 kg, while anglers can expect regularly to catch fish between 5-7 kg.The lodge is situated in the Western province of Zambia on the Zambezi River, at Mwandi, 140 kms West of Livingstone and 60 kms East of Katima Mulilo. The lodge is equipped with 5 boats in size from 12’ to 26’ geared for angling.

Fly Fishing. All fishing will be done from boats that focus on holding spots along the river known by the guides. The experienced guides will be responsible for taking the guests our each day in search of fish. There is no bank fishing as there are numerous crocodiles and hippos, not to mention other predators that may pass though the region. Tackle can be purchased at the lodge but we recommend that the guests bring what they intend on using. The lodge practices strict application of catch and release.

Fishing season. Though the lodge is open all year, the high season for the game fishing is from May till October, with the latter months being better as the water levels have receded. This is highly dependent on the floodwaters that come down from the Luwa Plains and northern Barotseland in Zambia. The fish concentrate in the channels targeting bait fish as they are washed off the planes as the flood recedes, then concentrate in holding spots along the banks known by the guides.

Fly Fishing Tackle. Rods should be 7 - 9 weight fast action models, because they load sinking lines more efficiently and generally have more power than softer models. Fly reels must have a reliable drag system and at least 100 m of backing. Reel should be loaded with fast sinking line get down into the depths fast. Intermediate and shooting heads are not encouraged in this area, 8 feet of 8 -10 kg leaders, with a 6 inch 20 kg wire trace.

Flies. Good flies for Zambezi are Zonkers, Deceivers, Clousers: Black, White, Grey, Chartreuse, Orange/Yellow. 1-2/0 hooks.

Accomodation. The Lodge is on the banks of the Zambezi, and is owner-managed with a professional and well-qualified team on duty at all times to service client requirements. The lodge has been designed for the sole purpose of catering for all anglers needs. There are 6 double en suite thatched chalets overlooking the Zambezi, each with a private deck. The main complex offers excellent dining and lounge facilities, with a sun downer deck a riverside bar, a pool, a fire pit, and barbecue area with superb river views.

General Equipment. Lightweight shirts and pants, wide brimmed hat or cap, a lightweight waterproof jacket, a polar fleece sweatshirt, an extra pair of sandals or sneakers, polarized sunglasses, sunblock, lip protector.

Travel Arrangements. Fishing trips to Zambesi River will be arranged throughout the fishing season and the packages can be booked according to the client’s preferred dates. Customers take a flight to South Africa, Johannesburg and continue there to Livingston with 1,5 hour flight. Then one hour car transfer with guide to lodge.

Fly Fishing - Zambia, Zambezi

Price: 1590 eur/person, 4 fishing days/4 nights, Convert Currency >>

Price: 2190 eur/person, 7 fishing days/7 nights, Convert Currency >>

Group size: Minimum group is 4 fishermen

Fishing trip includes: Flights Johannesburg/ Livingston/ Johannesburg - Accomodation, double bedroom - Car transfers from Livingston - Guiding - Fishing licenses - Meals, water

Fishing trip does not include: Flights to Johannesburg - Gratuities to camp staff and fishing guides - Alcohol

Species: Tigerfish, 3 spot bream, yellow bream, Pink and green happy, Red breast bream, Green headed bream, Thin faced large mouth, Hump backed large mouth, Brown spot tilapia, Barbel - Sharp teeth catfish

Season: May - October

More pictures in photo gallery >>

Bookings and more information:

Phone: +358-400-824530/Jouni Rauha

E-mail: jouni@fishmaster.fi