The Chobe River region is one of the best places to enjoy Tiger fishing as well as other incredible fishing experiences which can be enjoyed year-round, each season offering a different experience.
The Chobe area’s unique geographical location allows boat access to over 100 kilometres of prime water on the famed Chobe and Zambezi Rivers and the many productive waterways found in between. This eastern Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi) is also the home of extensive floodplains and the breeding area of a multitude of fish species, some of which are caught on fly and spinner.
Only in January and February when the water can become discoloured is flyfishing affected but the variety of water habitats provides many opportunities throughout the year to experience catching the hard-fighting tigerfish.
January
River Conditions:Frequent thundershowers continue to increase water levels, while strong flows from Angola and northern Zambia begin to flood the Impalila area. Rivers become somewhat murky during this period. However, fishing with weighted jugs and spinnerbaits in the clearer reed beds result in plenty of summer bream catches.
Species:Tigerfish, Catfish, Bream
Technique:Flyfishing, spinning
February
River Conditions:Fishing opportunities abound as water levels continue to rise significantly. Waterways such as the Kasai become deeper, faster and have been known to change the direction of their flow.
Species:Tigerfish, Catfish
Technique:Drift-baiting, trolling
March
River Conditions:While local rains begin to decrease, plenty of fishing opportunities remain in the higher water areas that were previously too shallow and rocky to navigate. Main channels are flowing fast, while back eddies and rapids provide thrilling results.
Species:Tigerfish, Catfish
Technique:Drift fishing, spinning
April
River Conditions:As autumn sets in, temperatures begin to decline. Smaller channels and rapids still provide great fishing opportunities. Winter bream species, such Nembwe and Humpback largemouth bream, become more active in the deeper floodplain areas.
Species:Tigerfish, Catfish, Bream
Technique:Drift fishing, spinning
May
River Conditions:The end of the rainy season arrives, and the river begins to recede. Baitfish emerge from the floodplains and head for the main channels where hunting tigerfish await. Deep, fast-flowing water adds to the feeding frenzy, while fly fishing and spinning promise impressive yields.
Species:Tigerfish, Catfish, Bream
Technique:Flyfishing, spin fishing, drift fishing
June
River Conditions:Beautiful weather makes June the perfect time to be out and about on the water. Baitfish continue to stream into the main channels as the floodplains recede and predator fish stalk the waters to great effect. Flyfishing and spinning yield fantastic results.
Species:Tigerfish, Catfish, Bream
Technique:Flyfishing, spin fishing
July
River Conditions:The river level continues to drop, revealing new areas of floodplain. However, the water remains deep with strong currents, and fishing conditions are still excellent. Keep an eye out for sudden feeding frenzies.
Species:Tigerfish, Catfish, Bream
Technique:Flyfishing, spinning
August
River Conditions:The water level is significantly lower causing the floodplain to the west of Impalila Island to dry up. A multitude of minnows and barbus species are flushed into the Kasai channel providing a feast for hordes of catfish. This makes for fantastic fishing opportunities. Tigerfishing is also very productive due to the feeding frenzies created by large numbers of barbel in the water.
Species:Tigerfish, Catfish, Bream
Technique:Flyfishing, spinning
September
River Conditions:Flyfishing is at an all-time high. Shallow, rocky areas with highly oxygenated waters near the Chobe rapids and lower Mambova channels are teeming with Tigerfish, catfish and bream species.
Species:Tigerfish, Catfish, Bream
Technique:Flyfishing, spinning
October
River Conditions:The end of October sees heavy rainfall in the main catchment area of the Zambezi River in western Zambia. During this time, the river rises slowly, kgand fishing remains productive in the shallow, clear waters of Ichingo. Flyfishing in the Chobe rapids will also yield great results.
Species:Tigerfish, Catfish
Technique:Flyfishing, spinning
November
River Conditions:Local rains increase oxygen levels in the water system, ensuring high fishing productivity. Flyfishing and drift-bait fishing are especially productive in the fast-flowing water.
Species:Tigerfish, Catfish
Technique:Flyfishing, spinning, drift fishing
December
River Conditions:Brief afternoon thundershowers provide relief from the hot, sunny climate. The river will begin to rise towards month end, overflowing into the low-lying floodplains and providing a fertile breeding ground for various smaller baitfish. Drift-baiting in the main channel’s stronger currents rewards with excellent tigerfish opportunities.
Species:Tigerfish, Catfish, Bream
Technique:Flyfishing, spinning, drift fishing
Thanks to our unique location, we offer excellent fishing safaris all year round – from the annual floods starting in March to the feeding frenzies in the winter months. Our highly knowledgeable guides, the tackle and bait we supply as well as well stocked cooler boxes make fishing in Africa an experience to remember.
Note: All tiger fishing done with the Zambezi Queen Collection is strictly on a catch and release basis only.
Fishing boats are subject to availability.
Having the right fishing equipment is key to a successful fishing trip, and we’ve got you covered. Our experienced guides understand the importance of having quality gear, which is why we provide all the conventional equipment you’ll need for your excursion.
Our all-inclusive rate includes all the conventional fishing gear you’ll need, such as rods, lures, lines, and reels. However, when it comes to fly fishing, the equipment varies greatly based on personal preferences. If you plan to engage in fly fishing during your visit, we recommend bringing your own gear, as we do not provide fly fishing equipment. This way, you can have a tailored experience that suits your preferences.
So, whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, rest assured that our equipment will meet your needs. Book now and get ready to cast your line with confidence and reel in your next big catch!
