6 Days Victoria Falls Fishing Safari Zambezi River
6 Days Victoria Falls Fishing Safari Zambezi River
Fishing on the Zambezi River, around Victoria Falls, is an experience of a lifetime. Pole and fly fishermen from all corners of the globe flock to these waters in order to experience some of the best freshwater fishing Africa has to offer.
Although more than 75 species of freshwater fish flourish in these warm, nutrient-rich waters, many anglers arrive with one thing in mind – landing a Tiger. Tiger fish are probably the world’s most infamous freshwater fish, revered for their power and fierce set of teeth. Some of the Zambezi River’s other noteworthy game fish include Yellow-belly Bream (Nembwe) and Vundu, a local species of catfish that grows up to 45 kg (100 lbs.).
Furthermore, surrounded by the unimaginably serene Southern African wilderness, you will fish in awe of your beautiful surroundings. The Upper Zambezi is calm, allowing you to fully appreciate the local wildlife, often seen enjoying a drink on the river’s edge.
Safari highlights
- Fishing for Tiger fish
- Fishing for Vundu cat fish
- Fishing for bream
- Wildlife and bird watching
Detailed safari itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Victoria Falls international airport
On arrival at Victoria Falls international airport you will be received by our guide and transfer to your fishing lodge where you will spend the next 5 nights angling on the Mighty Zambezi River below and above Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
Day 2: Full day fishing on the Zambezi River
After a morning breakfast you will head out for trawling for Tiger fish, this will take much of your morning hours and after you will breakup for lunch, as well as some bank fishing. Enjoy a tasty meal with an absolutely breath-taking African backdrop – clear blue skies above, river sand between your toes, and the untamed African wilderness stretching as far as the eye can see. Among the international fishing community, Tiger fish are revered as one of the world’s most prized freshwater fish. Growing up to 15 kg, Tiger fish are considered some of the most feisty and ferocious fighting freshwater predators around. This guarantees a fight you will never forget, while a photograph with your prized catch show two sets of teeth.
Day 2: Full day fishing on Zambezi River
After morning breakfast you will head in to Batoka Gorge a great fishing spot near Victoria Falls. As part of the more remote Lower Zambezi River, it starts at the bottom of Victoria Falls, stretching just over 110 km to Makwa in the Gwembe Valley. Rated as one of Africa’s most scenic freshwater fishing destinations, it provides experienced anglers with the opportunity to immerse them in this awe-inspiring African wilderness.
The isolation and beauty do, however, come at a price. Batoka Gorge is not as accessible as the Upper Zambezi River and more suitable for experienced fishermen. You will not have the luxury of cruising down the river in a boat and will have to settle for the challenge of angling from the rocks.
Day 3: Full day fishing on the Zambezi River
The Vundu, or Mazunda fish, is a species of catfish found in Southern Africa. It is Southern Africa’s largest true freshwater fish, weighing as much as 55 kg (121 lbs.), and reaching up to 1.5 m (5ft) in length.
It is a hostile predator that hunts almost anything, with reports of Vundu consuming various birds, juvenile crocodile, snails, as well as carcasses floating down the river. Ultimately, a Vundu will eat almost anything floating downstream, providing a valuable cleaning service.
The species is not found in the Upper Zambezi River, but can be caught below Victoria Falls at Batoka Gorge. They prefer the deeper water, are usually be found in a river’s mainstream, and become increasingly active at night. Bait-wise, you can succeed with almost anything, although oily and pungent options such as canned meat bring the best results.
Day 4: Full day fishing on Zambezi River
Bream fishing on the Zambezi River is also very popular. Half-day fishing on the Zambezi starts a dawn. The tranquility of that time of day can’t be expressed: the stillness of the water; the gentle murmur of the birds; and the sky’s illumination as the sun raises makes for a perfect start to a day of fishing.
As you move out in your fishing boat to find the perfect spot to moor and cast from, the sun starts to rise. Fish to structure they say, which means tie up close to trees stumps or rocks – but try not to get your fishing-line tangled up in them.
Day 5: Optional activities or Day at Leisure
Today you will have an optional day either to hike to Victoria Falls or take the evening sundowner boat cruise or relax at your Lodge for the entire day or you can also arrange another fishing day and our experts will help you arrange that through our Expert guides
Day 6: Transfer to the Airport for your departure flight
Depending on your flight schedule, our Guide will received you and transfer you to the airport for your onward flight arrangements making an end to your superb fishing experience on Zambezi River Victoria Falls.
Trip includes
- Accommodation
- Airport transfers
- Fishing boat, guide and fishing gillie
- Fishing permits
- Government taxes
- Meals and drinking water
- Fishing Equipment
Trip excludes
- International flights
- travel insurance
- Zimbabwe tourist Visa
- charges for Damaged fishing equipment
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips for guides and hotels
When book this safari package
We recommend booking 6 months to 1 year in advance.
Best time for fishing on Zambezi River Victoria Falls
Clear water on the upper Zambezi is common from late May until December, this massive window of fishing opportunity has its peak from May-October for fly and lure fishermen.
