Zambezi River Fishing - Zambia

Catch the elusive Tiger fish in an exciting fishing experience in the great Zambezi River

Fish caught in the Zambezi River

Above the Victoria Falls is a calmer portion of Zambezi River where one can go and have en exciting experience fishing for Tiger fish. These elusive fish require a bit of skill to catch as they are quite aggressive - which is part of the thrill. Also, they can grow as big as 33lb (15kgs) so you could be in for a big fight. However inexperienced you may be, a day spent on the Zambezi with a line in the water and the wilderness spilling across the banks, is a day well spent.

The Zambezi River has over 75 fish species but the most sought-after of these is the Tiger Fish. You can also find African Pike, Barbel, Upper Zambezi Yellow fish, Bream or Tilapia while on your fishing trip. Although they don't fight quite as aggressively as the Tiger, a good 5 lb fish will quickly snap light tackle given half the chance. Spinners and lures are the most common method of catching these fish although using light tackle, a fly and a fly-rod is becoming very popular and brings an extra dimension to a very exciting sport.

The Zambezi is real Africa so there is no getting away from the fact that Hippos and Crocodiles live in these waters in profusion. However, experienced guides know exactly how to avoid these animals and let them be, so that both man and animal can enjoy this magical place. So don't let these dangers stop you from going rather make sure you go only with someone who knows what they are doing.

Zambezi River fishing from Zambia are half-day trips, picking up at the Day Activity Centre before a drive to one of the launch sites to board the boat and set off to the fishing grounds. The trip includes transfers, tea and coffee, soft drinks, beer and fishing tackle.

Pickup Times

MORNING HALF DAY
Pick up from any lodge/hotel within Livingstone Town from approx. 06h30 (summer)/07h00(winter)
Drop off at any lodge/hotel within Livingstone Town at approx. 10h30 (summer)/11h00(winter)

AFTERNOON HALF DAY
Pick up from any lodge/hotel within Livingstone Town from approx. 14h00 (summer)/ 13h30 (winter)
Drop off at any lodge/hotel within Livingstone Town at approx. 18h00 (summer)/ 17h30 (winter)

FULL DAY
Pick up from any lodge/hotel within Livingstone Town from approx. 06h30 (summer) /07h00 ( winter)
Drop off at any lodge/hotel within Livingstone Town at approx. 17h30 (summer)/17h00 (winter)

NOTE: The Zambian authorities enforce an annual fishing ban, which means no fishing between 1st December and 1st March.

What you will Need to Bring

• Sunscreen - You may feel the cool in the Zambezi breeze but the sun gets very hot out so make sure you are covered, even with a long sleeved shirt
• Insect repellent
• Camera
• Light cool clothing in the summer, warm clothing and jacket in the winter
• Non-slip shoes or sandals
• Hat and sunglasses
• If you plan on being out at sundown, make sure you have your mosquito repellent because this is when the mosquitoes come out in full force.

What you Need to Know

• Minimum 2 pax - maximum 16 pax
• Maximum 4 pax per boat
• A private boat can be confirmed on a minimum of 4 pax
• The transfer is approximately 40 minutes from Day Activity Centre, Avani or Royal Livingstone hotels to the fishing launch site
• Spincast is the usual tackle however, fly fishing is available on request
• The fishing is on a "Catch and Release" policy
• Lost and broken tackle must be paid for
• Fishing trips include use of equipment and tackle, boat trip, fuel and guide, beers / soft drinks and mineral water, and return transfers from Hotels/Lodges within Livingstone

Children

No minimum age but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 12 years pay half price.

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