Fly Fishing vs Conventional Tackle

We offer excellent tiger fishing throughout the year and with the assistance of expert river guides and access by boat, your fishing success on the Chobe River is almost guaranteed!

Anglers have to decide what fishing method to use for tiger fishing. While conventional tackle is typically used to target tigerfish (conventional tackle is supplied), some anglers might prefer fly fishing.

Both conventional and fly-fishing methods are effective for catching tigerfish of all sizes but there are a few notable differences in the methods as well as varying reasons for using a particular method.

Have a look at our fishing techniques here

What is the difference between conventional fishing and fly fishing?

When it comes to conventional fishing tackle for tiger fishing, it generally comprises a spinning rod, typically 6.6-7ft in length, which is combined with a 3000-4000 size reel fitted with either heavy-duty (20-30lbs) braided or monofilament line. Furthermore, a large variety of lures and spoons can be used to target Tigerfish, with the addition of a short bite trace. Once the lure or spoon is cast out, it is then retrieved using the reel. Moreover, conventional tackle can also be used for alternative fishing methods such as drift-baiting and trolling in order to increase your success rate

Advantages for using conventional tackle include:

Easy to use, no previous experience required

Beginner-friendly fishing method

Casting is easier

You can cast further using conventional tackle

Preferable method in windy conditions

Comparatively, fly fishing is a more technical fishing method where an artificial fly, which mimics natural prey such as insects or baitfish, is cast out in a series of casts, typically using a fly rod 8-9ft in length. A 9wt fly reel is sufficient for tiger fishing and it can be fitted with either floating, intermediate or sinking line, depending on conditions. The line is typically retrieved by hand. The fly of choice is attached to the end of a straight tippet (20-30lbs) along with a bite trace.

If possible and for the sake of convenience, it’s advised to have at least two fly rods set up with either floating, intermediate or sinking line, which will allow you to easily alternate equipment based on conditions without wasting time on preparing tackle. A fly rod can also be used for trolling.

From a technical perspective

Fly-fishing technique is more difficult to perfect when compared to using conventional tackle and it’s therefore often considered to be an alternative fishing method.

Fly fishing, particularly the act of casting, is a complex skill that requires practice, but once the casting technique is mastered, fly fishing is widely considered to offer higher levels of reward. Unlike conventional fishing, fly fishing becomes more difficult in windy conditions.

Advantages for fly fishing include:

More tactical/strategic fishing approach

Casting is more accurate

Increased difficulty results in higher reward when you catch fish

Often more effective at encouraging a fish to bite

Each fishing method has both its advantages and disadvantages on any given day. Conventional fishing is more widely accessible to various skill levels, and it’s therefore considered to be the preferred method of choice for catching tigerfish.

However, if fly fishing is in your arsenal, then you’re in the ultimate position to pick and choose the best method based on the conditions and the freedom of choice will ultimately result in more fish caught and higher levels of satisfaction.

When visiting Ichingo, we encourage you to engage with your knowledgeable river guide to determine what tackle to use and where best to go for Tigerfish on the Chobe River.

Contact us to book your tiger fishing adventure!