Murchison Falls Fishing Safari
River Nile crosses through Murchison Falls National Park as the Victoria Nile creating the Murchison Falls before it continues north flowing into Lake Albert; becoming the Albert Nile. Owing to the fact that it flows direct from Lake Victoria and connects to Lake Albert, it carries with it fish species from both Lakes thus making fishing a possibility in the park.
Fishing safaris are mostly regarded as “Sport Fishing” adventures as it is mainly for sport and fun but not for commercial or any other use. Tourists come here to exercise their fishing skills and also spend a great time with family and friends while all the while making an attempt at catching some of the largest fish species in Uganda.
Where to have a Murchison Falls fishing safari
Sport Fishing in Murchison Falls National Park is carried out at two spots; below the Murchison Falls near the devil’s Cauldron and below the Karuma Falls. Currently, the most used spot is at the base of the Murchison Falls where people catch the fish from the comfort of their boats downstream or by the rocks at the banks of the river; especially for anglers.
The fishing spots in the park are very accessible for adventurers embarking on a fishing safari. The fishing spot at Paara below the Murchison falls can be accessed using a boat along the river or by a 45 minute hike down from the top of the waterfall. For anglers at the banks of the river, caution is recommended because hippos and Crocodiles love to hang out around there.
How the fish is caught
There are three main fishing methods used on Uganda safari Murchison Falls National Park such as; casting lures for large fish species like the Nile Perch and spinning and live baits to catch smaller fish like the Tiger fish. Live bait used includes; worms and termites. It is worth noting that fish isn’t killed and should be returned after being caught into the river alive.
Types of fish to expect
When on a Murchison Falls fishing safari expect to catch some interesting fish species spawning right from Lake Victoria such as Nile Perch, cichlids, Catfish and Tiger fish. There is a very high possibility of catching enormous Nile Perch; in fact a record was set after some travelers were able to catch a Nile Perch that weighed 113 kilograms.
When to go
The trick to enjoying Murchison Falls fishing safari is choosing the right time to visit the park. This should be during the months of January to early April when the dry season is on and the rainy season is just kicking in. At this time, the water levels are low and the streams are clearer thus making the fish more accessible and easier to catch.
What you will need
Before arriving for Uganda Safari Murchison Falls National Park to enjoy a fishing adventure, ensure that you have the following things with you as they will go a long way to make your safari smooth.
- Anglers should carry with them rods between 8 and 11 ft with a multiplier reel. 7ft rods are suitable for catching smaller fish.
- Sun screen
- Long socks, trousers and long sleeved shirts to protect from tsetse flies
- Skilled and professional fishing guides
