Fishing in Tanzania – Game, Lake and Fly

By Ian Williamson, 27 March 2007

The waters of Tanzania are only just beginning to gain worldwide fame, which means these waters are less populated with boats and fishing is at its most pristine. However, fishing is an economic stronghold of many parts of rural Tanzania and quickly becoming a popular activity for fishing safaris along the country’s rivers and lakes. And the deep waters of the Indian Ocean along Tanzania’s coast are rich in big-game fish.

Deep sea fishing

Deep sea fishing in the Indian Ocean’s waters from August to November provides really good sport for the big yellowfin tuna, one of the strongest fish in the area. The large blue marlin and a number of striped and black marlin are also found, as well as sailfish, king fish, dorado, sharks, barracuda and many other IGFA species.

Deep sea fishing in Tanzania is best organised through private companies which specialise in boating and ocean trips, or through lodges and hotel properties which offer day excursions throughout the coast.

The game fishing here is excellent year round, with many hotels’ boats equipped to the highest international safety standards and including the latest technology, such as GPS navigational aids, colour echo sounder and fishfinder.

Freshwater fishing

Although it is not allowed in national parks, fly and lake fishing in remote areas outside the parks is possible. It is a rewarding and peaceful way to experience the beauty of African scenery and enjoy the country at a leisurely pace.

Sometimes private companies, tour operators, and lodges can arrange for day trips to nearby lakes and rivers, and longer fishing safaris around the region can be organised with tour operators. In addition to planned day excursions, local fishermen in the region will gladly take you with them on their daily fishing trips and show you the best places to get started.

Lake fishing

The freshwater lakes of Tanzania offer fishing opportunities for visitors willing to rough it a little and to venture off the beaten track. Fishing in Lake Victoria affords an opportunity to experience freshwater lake fishing and observe life around the lakes of Tanzania, where boatmen will gladly arrange for you to accompany them on their daily trips to net Nile perch and tilapia in the waters offshore. Trips to Rubondo Island National Park also offer fishermen a base from which to embark on trips around Lake Victoria.

Fly fishing

Fly fishing along Tanzania’s many rivers and large streams is another rewarding experience for sportsmen wanting to take in remote areas at a more relaxed tempo. During the rainy season, rivers swell with fish and river life, and any time after the short and long rains is a good time to plan a fishing safari. Many adventure tour operators cater for international fisherman looking for the best fishing waters in East Africa, and everything from trolling through flood plains to fly fishing in mountain streams is possible.