Tiger Fishing in Zambia

Tigerfish strike like a train, leap clear of the water and throw the hook more often than not. With their striped flanks and interlocking teeth, they are the fish that every African angler dreams about — and Zambia’s rivers hold some of the best tiger fishing in the world.

Where to fish

• The Lower Zambezi — below the Kariba Dam, widely regarded as the best tiger fishing in Zambia. Fish from lodges along the river, combining mornings on the water with game drives, canoeing and walks.
• The Upper Zambezi — above Victoria Falls, the river is wide, clear and dotted with islands. Fishing can be combined with a stay at an upper-Zambezi lodge and a visit to the falls.
• Lake Kariba — the world’s largest man-made reservoir by volume, fished from Siavonga on the Zambian shore or from houseboats on multi-day trips.
• Lake Tanganyika — for adventurous anglers, a remote lake with its own hard-fighting species.

When to go

The prime months are about September to November, when the rivers run low, clear and warm and tigerfish feed aggressively. March and April, as the rains end and the water settles, can be a good second window. Remote fishing camps follow the main safari season and many close in the heaviest rains.

How it works

Fishing is usually from a boat with a guide, either casting lures or drifting baits along channels and drop-offs, or fly fishing for those who enjoy the challenge. Good fish are often in the 3 to 8 kg range. On the Lower Zambezi, fishing in and around the national park is strictly catch-and-release, typically with artificial lures and single barbless hooks to protect the fish. Licences and permits are required and are usually arranged by your lodge.

What to bring

• Most good fishing lodges provide rods, reels and lures; bring your own if you prefer, especially for fly fishing.
• Wire traces or heavy leaders — tigerfish teeth cut through light line.
• Polarised sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and strong sunscreen.

Fishing and safari

Tiger fishing is easy to combine with a Zambian safari. A few days on the Lower Zambezi lets non-anglers canoe, walk and game drive while you fish, and Victoria Falls is a short flight away. Tell us your experience level and we’ll match the right river and lodge.

Frequently asked questions