Sport Fishing in Uganda, Fishing in Murchison Falls National Park
Fishing in Uganda is more than a bucket-list experience, it is one of the best activities that any traveler on a Uganda safari should opt for as it involves catching fish using the long-range casting lures. Fishing in Uganda is done at different fishing sites including Lake Victoria, and the Nile River in Murchison Falls National Park, among others.
To be specific, fishing in Murchison Falls National Park is the best sport fishing experience in Uganda and is mainly done along the Victoria Nile though you are advised to take caution of the Nile crocodiles and the hippos especially fishing at the River banks.
Where to go Sport Fishing in Murchison Falls National Park
A visit to Murchison Falls National Park offers two major fishing sites. The first fishing site is the one below the Murchison Falls near Paraa Safari Lodge and the second one is below the Karuma Falls at Chobe Safari Lodge. For the best Uganda fishing trips in Murchison Falls National Park, sport fishing is done mainly at the base of the Murchison Falls either from the rocks on the River bank or from the boat down the stream.
You can get to these fishing spots either by using a boat or walking from the top of the falls to the gorge which can take 45 minutes for a physically fit person. With this, you are recommended to move well-equipped with your fishing equipment. As you enjoy catching fish there is always a chance to land on a huge catch; in terms of length, weight, and girth. In fact record has it that the heaviest fish caught was 113kg and this was a Nile Perch.
How to get to Murchison Falls National Park for the best Uganda fishing tour
You can get to Murchison Falls National Park either by road or by charter flights. Murchison Falls National Park is situated in the Northwest of Uganda approximately a 6 hours drive from Kampala. Travelers with limited time can take a charter flight to Pakuba Airfield in the park from either Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip.
Best time for Sport Fishing in Murchison Falls National Park
Fishing in Murchison Falls National Park is an all year round activity and can be done at any time. Regarding what anglers say, the best fishing time is either early in the morning or late in the day. The best season for the best fishing experience is when the water levels are low and clear visibility.
Fishing Methods, Equipment and Fish types caught
During your Uganda fishing trips in Murchison Falls National Park, all participants are required to carry their fishing equipment. You should also keep in mind that all fish caught is not killed but returned back in the water alive. The different fishing methods or techniques used to catch fish in Murchison Falls include: casting lures, spinning and catching fish on live bait. Expect to a catch different types of fish species depending on the method used. Some of the fish species caught include the Nile perch, Catfish, Tiger fish, among others.
All anglers are advised to have the following equipment: rods that are between 8 feet and 11 feet with a multiplier reel. While catching smaller species; a 7’ spinning rod is recommended.
Wildlife to see in Murchison Falls National Park
As you are engaging in your fishing experience, expect to see a variety of wildlife species like hippos, buffaloes, elephants, warthogs, and antelopes, among others as well as a number of bird species. These animals normally come along the water banks to drink water and at times to cool from the scorching heat.
What to Wear when Fishing
You are advised to carry enough sun protection equipment since the temperature can rise over 40°C. Also wear long socks, long-sleeved shirts and trousers, as well as insect repellents to keep away any bugs and insects like tsetse flies. Sport fishing in Uganda requires expertise; therefore you will need the assistance of experienced and highly skilled fishing guides.