Fishing Safaris in Uganda

With 165 lakes, Uganda is truly an Angler’s Paradise, and fishing safaris are the epitome of thrill. The exhilarating fishing experiences in this stunning destination, especially the opportunity to catch massive species like the Nile Perch, spread across many lakes nationwide, promise an unforgettable adventure on your Uganda safari.

And that’s not even mentioning the river fishing opportunities available in the Pearl of Africa. You can also venture into the remarkable mountain streams of Mount Elgon, where you can find trophy-sized trout. Fishing safaris in Uganda enable you to discover the extensive lakes, rivers, and mountain streams. No matter where you are in Uganda, a thrilling adventure with a rod and reel is never far away.

Best locations for fishing safaris

Let’s shift focus and explore the intriguing details. We’ll discuss the best spots for fishing and the species you can expect to catch. Keep reading for a wealth of information ahead.

Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park, renowned for its wildlife viewing, is also an outstanding fishing spot in Uganda, provided you know the right time to visit. Fishing here is done with the assistance of expert guides, enhancing both safety and your chances of success. These guides are knowledgeable and passionate about fishing, ensuring you have the best possible experience. If you feel confident enough to tackle the Nile, you can rent a boat and a skipper; however, it’s best to have a seasoned fishing guide accompany you. This ensures your fishing excursion goes smoothly, particularly if it’s your first time at Murchison Falls.

Fishing areas: Fishing trips in Murchison Falls National Park typically occur near the base of Murchison Falls. Our boats allow anglers to fish in the pools from the rocky riverbanks or slightly downstream. Our excursions provide boat access to all fishing locations, starting from the launch point at Paraa.

Due to soaring temperatures (exceeding 40 degrees), particularly around midday, anglers should equip themselves with wide-brimmed hats, sunscreen, and long-sleeved shirts. In certain months, there are plenty of tsetse flies; therefore, wearing long safari pants and applying insect repellent is advised.

Fish species available: You can engage in a catch-and-release of Nile Perch (weighing up to 108 kilograms) and catfish while fishing safaris in Murchison Falls National Park.

Where to stay: Murchison Falls National Park features diverse lodging choices, such as Paraa Safari Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge, Twiga Safari Lodge, Bamboo Village Murchison, Fort Murchison, Murchison River Lodge, and Sambiya River Lodge.

Lake Victoria

Renowned as the world’s largest tropical lake and the second-largest freshwater lake globally, Lake Victoria is Africa’s largest lake by surface area, encompassing 23146 square miles. Its deep waters are home to the Nile Perch, the largest freshwater fish, weighing up to 220 lbs. It’s no surprise that anglers flock to Victoria, particularly during the dry seasons (June to September and December to February), when the lake is filled with baitfish. As water levels recede, these small fish are flushed from their hiding spots, making them easy prey for the Nile Perch.

Fishing method: Nile Perch, typically weighing between 11 and 55 lbs, is commonly caught during fishing tours in Lake Victoria. Occasionally, larger specimens are also seen. Trolling using lures is the primary fishing method employed in the lake.

To enjoy the Lake’s catch-and-release fishing, plan your visit in January, February, June, July, August, September, or December. Avoid the full moon and the rainy season, which encompasses March, April, May, October, and November.

Where to stay: For fishing trips on Lake Victoria, we suggest staying in Entebbe. Available accommodations include Hotel Number Five, Boma Guesthouse, Protea Hotel Entebbe, Papyrus Guesthouse, and 2 Friends Beach Hotel.

Lake Mburo National Park

Nestled in western Uganda, Lake Mburo National Park offers catch-and-release fishing and the possibility of catching a trophy. The primary fishing spot is Mazinga Swamp, located along the unspoiled shores of Lake Mburo, where anglers commonly reel in Tigerfish, Catfish, and Lungfish.

Timing is crucial: Tigerfish spawn in shallow waters during the March to May flood season in Mazinga Swamp. They migrate back to the main areas from June to September. The optimal fishing months in this park are June to August, when the water temperature is at its peak, aligning with the best wildlife viewing opportunities. This extraordinary blend is not to be missed.

Where to stay: Lake Mburo National Park features outstanding accommodations such as Mihingo Safari Lodge, Rwakobo Rock Lodge, Kigambira Safari Lodge, Eagle’s Nest Camp, Kigambira Wilderness Lodge, Leopard Rest Camp, Mburo Safari Lodge, Hyena Hill Lodge, Arcadia Lodge, and numerous others.

Mount Elgon National Park

Mount Elgon National Park is the ideal destination if you seek a fly-fishing spot during your Uganda safari. The park offers one of the top opportunities in the world. For Rainbow Trout varieties, this is the best route to take.

The Sipi River offers an exceptional fishing experience, with various angler lodging choices. Nestled high in the mountains, this destination allows you to escape life’s worries. To increase your chances of catching trout, it’s best to avoid the rainy season, which spans from March to May and October to November. The dry season, lasting from June to September and December to February, is ideal for extended casting sessions.

Best time for fishing safaris

Timing is essential for fishing safaris in Uganda, which can be enjoyed throughout the year. The optimal fishing months in Uganda are June to September and December to February, when the water temperatures are highest. Moreover, these periods also align with peak game viewing in the Park, creating an irresistible experience. Understanding the best time to fish can significantly enhance your chances of a successful catch.

What to pack

If you’re planning a fishing safari in Uganda, one key aspect is to prepare well for a productive trip. To ensure you have the best experience, here’s a complete list of essentials for your journey.

Fishing license/permit: First, comply with the law. Contact Native Africa Tours to acquire your fishing license or permit before your trip. A poor encounter with a Ranger guide can quickly spoil an enjoyable fishing trip.
Rods and Reels: Ensure you have the appropriate rods and reels for your upcoming fishing safari in Uganda. For instance, a heavy-duty rod and reel are recommended for Nile Perch fishing in Lake Victoria, while a lighter rod and reel would be more suitable for trout fishing in Mount Elgon. Different rods and reels are needed for various species, locations, and skill levels.
Lures or Bait: Our fishing safaris in Uganda feature lures and baits, essential for attracting fish. We offer a variety of artificial lures, such as spools, flies, plugs, and spinners, which draw fish in with their colors, movements, and vibrations that mimic natural prey.
Sun protection: To fully enjoy your fishing trip and share your experiences the next day without suffering from painful sunburn, bring polarized sunglasses, sun hats, and non-spray sunscreen.
A good camera: Modern smartphones come equipped with high-quality cameras, making them convenient to carry. Fishing safaris in Uganda focus on creating lasting memories, and capturing photos of your day on the water is invaluable.

Other essential items to bring are snacks and beverages, cash for tipping, insect repellent, long-sleeved shirts and pants, non-marking footwear, and a rain jacket or windbreaker.