Big Game Fishing at its Best Distinguished by its powerful tail and savage teeth, Southern Africa's legendary tigerfish ranks among the world's most exciting freshwater sportfish. Jarring strikes, lightening runs and acrobatic leaps, challenge light-tackle and fly enthusiasts from around the globe. The typical tigerfish weighs 3-8 pounds, with trophies running from 10-20 pounds. Fishing is prime when river levels are low, usually from September through November. Along with great fishing, you'll savor the full essence of an African safari -- elephants, hippos, lions and other big game are easily observed amid the stunning backdrop of the Zambezi River. Our safari lodges offer very comfortable lodging and delicious meals. If you've ever thought of visiting Africa "someday" don't wait -- this is the trip of your dreams!
Zambezi Tigerfish
Zambia
FISHING PROGRAM
Anglers typically fish 2 per boat, although boats can accommodate up to 4 anglers. Most anglers find casting plugs, spinners and spoons most effective. On a good day, two reasonable anglers should boat 20-40 fish easily; on a bad day, perhaps 10 fish. Average size is 4 pounds. Each boat typically lands 4-6 fish a day over 10 pounds. Catch-and-release fishing practices are encouraged. Fly fishing is challenging, and you have to get line down deep as quick as possible. Large streamer flies with lots of flash work best. The other decent fish to catch is the vundu catfish, which averages about 25 pounds but can weigh over 100 pounds.
TRIP DURATION
10 days/9 nights 6 days fishing
PACKAGE PRICE
(2010 SEASON RATES) 10 days/9 nights/6 days fishing $7595 per person (double occupancy), plus international airfare to Johannesburg.
DEPOSIT AMOUNT
$2000 per person. May be paid with check, credit card, certified check or money order. Final payments are typically due 60 days prior to departure.
TYPICAL AIRFARE
Our in-house travel agency can help you make your flight arrangements to Johannesburg. Note: airfares are subject to change and confirmed only at time of booking. Airline ticketing, refund, change and baggage restrictions may apply.
PACKAGE INCLUDES
Johannesburg transfers (between airport and hotel)
Two nights accommodation Michelangelo Hotel, Johannesburg
Air transfer to and from camp (note: baggage weight restrictions apply on air charter)
7 nights accommodations and meals at Chiawa Camp
6 days guided fishing/game viewing
NOT INCLUDED
International airfare, departure taxes, excess baggage charges, fishing tackle, tips, or personal item
OPTIONS
Note: Our 14-day Zambezi/Victoria Falls Adventure offers more extensive travel arrangements in a small-group environment. If you'd like to extend your safari in Southern Africa, we can help with your arrangements. In Cape Town, our selected hotels offer convenient access to the shops and restaurants of the famed Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Popular day tours include Table Top Mountain the beautiful Winelands region. Venture out to magnificent Victoria Falls or to the Sabi-Sabi game preserve near Kruger National Park. Or just treat yourself to some royal relaxation at the Palace of the Lost City. Early reservations are required to assure space availability.
SEASON
The best fishing is typically from September to November. River levels in this watershed can change quickly and affect fishing conditions, regardless of the season or historical patterns. Navigation of boats may also be affected. While we make every attempt to monitor such conditions, anglers assume the risk of these natural forces beyond our control.
AVAILABLE DATES
Please call us to confirm space availability or to request specific dates.
GETTING THERE
Our fishing camp is located in Zambia, on the Lower Zambezi. Anglers fly to Johannesburg, South Africa, overnight and then on to Lusaka, where they are met by our representative and transferred to the lodge.
CAPACITY
8 anglers per week. Lodge accommodates up to 16 guests total.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Our classic and comfortable safari camp sits along the edge of the Zambezi River. Large safari tents sit on raised platforms, with a sitting verandah to enjoy coffee or tea at sunrise, and an incredible sunset in the evening. Each unit has its own private bathroom and shower. The Zambezi River’s game preserves are home to an incredible array of wildlife, including elephant, lion and Cape buffalo. Plains game sightings include kudu, zebra, impala, warthog, bushbuck and baboons. Large pods of hippos inhabit the river, as do crocodiles. Along with superb fishing, our selected lodge offers splendid days in the African bush, with professionally guided game drives and boat safaris. Night drives offer the chance to spot leopard, hyena and other nocturnal mammals. The diversity of birdlife is impressive, with over 350 species recorded in the area. You'll stay in a very comfortable safari lodge, with professional, English-speaking guides to direct your fishing safari and wildlife-viewing. Camps provide an atmosphere of traditional safari life, while solar lights, showers and flush toilets ensure comfort and convenience. In the evening, share the magic glow of the unforgettable African sunset.
MEALS
Excellent meals are taken in a thatched dining area overlooking the river. They are prepared from fresh produce by talented cooks.
NON-FISHING ACTIVITIES
Non-anglers will find plenty to do, with game-drives, canoeing and other soft-adventure activities.
SAMPLE OUTLINE ITINERARY
(Subject to revision. Detailed itineraries are prepared on confirmation of reservation)
Day 1: Arrival: International flight to Johannesburg. Overnight in first-class hotel.
Day 2: Fly to Lusaka to connect with charter flight to lodge. Orientation. Afternoon fishing or game drive. Dinner. Overnight.
Days 3-8: Full program of tigerfishing and game drives. Overnight at lodge.
Day 9: Return flight to Johannesburg. Overnight hotel.
Day 10: Depart for USA.
ENTRY
A valid passport required for U.S. citizens. Zambia also requires a visa, which typically may be obtained on arrival in Lusaka or Livingstone. Passengers assume all responsibility for obtaining valid passports and visas. Visa application forms may also be available through the country's consulate.
HEALTH
While there are typically very few mosquitoes during the dry season, malaria tablets are recommended. Sunscreen is also recommended. Note: health precautions are offered here as an informational service only. See your doctor or health clinic.
LANGUAGES
English is widely spoken throughout the region.
WEATHER
Daytime highs typically rise to the 90s and can occasionally hit 105 degrees. In the evenings, temperatures usually cool down to the 70s. Rain is extremely rare from September to November.
TRIP INSURANCE
We recommend you purchase trip cancellation insurance to cover any losses should you have to cancel to due to unforeseen illness or other emergency. Certain restrictions do apply. Premium rates are typically about $65 per $1,000 of coverage, and usually include some benefits for lost baggage, trip interruption, and emergency evacuation. Forms for Travel Assure may be obtained by calling our office.
PACKING
Our recommended packing list and other briefing materials will be furnished on receipt of your trip deposit and reservation form.
CAVEAT
Information in Trip Details is subject to change without notice. FishQuest is not responsible for any unintentional omissions, or erroneous information which may be provided by the local operator. See our general Terms and Conditions statement. Information contained within this website is copyrighted by FishQuest and unauthorized use of photographs, graphics or text is prohibited by law.
