Fishing Safaris at Murchison Falls National Park
Fishing in Murchison falls is done mainly as a sport and is among the main activities along the Nile. It involves catching fish by casting lures; this method is used for catching larger fish species like the Nile perch and some cat fish. There other method used for catching fish is the use of live bait like worms, termites to catch smaller fish species like the Tiger fish, also you can catch them using the spinning method.
Murchison falls is among the leading parks where sport fishing in Uganda is conducted. Fishing is mainly done along the Victoria Nile which involves catching fish along rocky surfaces, the bottom of the falls mainly the Devil’s Cauldron, and at the banks of the Nile by the anglers.Fishing along the Nile is an exciting experience though you are advised to take caution of the Hippos and Nile crocodiles especially while fishing at the River banks.
Where to go Fishing in Murchison Falls
There are two major fishing sites in Murchison; one near Paraa located below the Murchison falls and another below the Karuma falls (at Chobe safari lodge). But sport fishing in the park is currently carried out mainly at the base of the falls either from the boat down the stream or from the rocks on the River bank.
Accessing the fishing spots can either be by boat or by walking down 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.
Getting there
Murchison Falls National Park is found in the Northwest of Uganda approximately a 6hours drive from Kampala (looking at the traffic in Kampala and a few tarred roads that lead to the park). Note that the roads in the park are Murrum, hence advised to drive in a 4 x 4 vehicle; spacious and comfortable for you and also with room for your fishing equipment.
You could also take a flight to the park chartered from the Entebbe airport or Kajjansi airstrip since the park has airfields like Pakuba airfield. This makes the distance shorter!
Best time for Fishing in Murchison Falls
Fishing in Murchison Falls can be done anytime of the year and the large catfish and Nile perch can be caught all year round. Anglers say that best catches are seen early in the morning and late in the day. Though best results of fish are when the water level is low since the water is clearer, and that is during the dry and shadow season from Mid-January to Early-April. Also it is said that fish feed more when weather conditions vary dramatically especially at the start of the rains.
Fishing Methods, Equipment and Fish types caught
During the Fishing trips in Murchison Falls National Park, all participants will be 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. The Different types of fish species caught here 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.
Other wildlife to see
As you catch fish you are also surrounded with great sceneries the landscape and also wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, elephants, waterbucks as well as beautiful birds, see more on Uganda safaris.
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 requires expertise; therefore you will need the assistance of experienced and highly skilled fishing guides!
Getting there
The Location of Murchison Falls National Park is in the Northwest of Uganda approximately a 6 hours drive from Kampala covering a distance of about 160 km along tarred however please note that the roads in the park are Murrum, so you are highly advised to drive in a 4 x 4 vehicle; spacious and comfortable for you and also with room for your fishing equipment.
Alternatively, you could also take a flight to the park chartered from the Entebbe airport or Kajjansi airstrip since the park has airfields like Pakuba airfield. This makes the travel duration shorter!
3 Days Fishing Safari-Murchison Falls National Park
Tour Overview
This 3 days fishing safari will start from and end in Kampala, it involves a visit to Uganda’s oldest and largest national park -Murchison Falls National Park. It is home to over 76 mammal species, 451 bird species, fish species, and the mighty Murchison falls that feature the water of the Nile forcing its way through an 8 meter wide gorge falling from a 45m high rift valley wall. Fishing will be the main activity, though you could have other activities like Game drives and Hiking to the top of the magnificent falls. A 4×4 vehicle will be used such that there is room for packing fishing equipment. Expect to have a catch of over 50kg!
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park
After breakfast, your driver will pick you up from Kampala and start off the 6 hours drive to Murchison falls through amazing landscapes. Have lunch in Masindi and continue to the park. Upon arrival, head to the base of the falls and enjoy fishing the whole afternoon – this takes around 3 hours. You will be over joyed with the big catch of the Nile perch in the dramatic pools at the base of the falls. After head to the lodge, have dinner and an overnight.
Accommodation Options; Paraa safari lodge(Upmarket), Murchison River lodge(Moderate), Red Chilli camp(Budget)
Journey time; 6 hours
Meal Plan; Full Board
Day 2: Fishing in Murchison Falls National Park
After a tasty breakfast, go fishing by boat along the Nile River at the base of the magnificent Murchison falls, here you can catch Nile perch, catfish among other species. On this day you will spend the whole day catching fish or do it half day and go for a hike to the top of the mighty falls; this is a memorable experience. While on this boat you will also enjoy viewing the vegetation and wildlife found in the park such as the hippos, elephants, buffaloes, Nile crocodiles, birds among others.
Accommodation Options; Paraa safari lodge (Upmarket), Murchison River lodge(Moderate), Red Chilli Camp(Budget)
Meal Plan; Full Board
Day 3: Game drive and head back to Kampala
Have breakfast, after go for a game drive through the park where you will have chance to see a number of animals like lions, buffaloes, antelopes, waterbucks, warthogs, elephants among others. After the game drive, proceed to Kampala with lunch along the way arriving in the late afternoon. If your flight is on that same day, you will be transferred to the airport in Entebbe!
End of Safari
Inclusions; Park entry, boat cruise, ranger guide, sport fishing permit, transport, accommodation, all en route meals.
Tour Exclusions; Visa, international flight, personal expenses like tips, souvenirs, beers, laundry, cigars and any optional activity.
