Sport Fishing in Uganda – Where To Go and Fishing methods

Sport Fishing in Uganda is not well marketed by the government despite having many water bodies. In fact, about 25% of Uganda is covered by water. In Lake Victoria, Uganda has the largest Lake in the African continent. Uganda is the source of the longest river in the world, River Nile. Uganda also has Lakes like George, Edward, Albert and Kyoga. All these water bodies present great opportunities for sport fishing. Some of the world’s famous anglers have gone fishing in Uganda. They include Jeremy Wade, John Wilson and Zeb Hogan of the National Geographic Channel.

Uganda has over 350 species of fish. The two major species caught for commercial purposes are the Tilapia and Nile Perch. The other types of fish are the Protoperus, Rastrinabola, lung fish and cat fish. The Nile perch is arguably the largest fish one can catch in Uganda. They can weigh more than 220kgs. Introduced in Uganda in the early 19^th century, they dominate the waters of Uganda. The Nile Perch is often caught using the smaller tiger fish as a bait. The Tiger fish has beautiful colors of the rainbow but are very resilient with sharp teeth and hard jaws.  Other large fish in Uganda are the lung fish and Tilapia. Tilapia is the most preferred fish eaten in Ugandan homes although the small silver fish is gaining popularity for its nutritious value.

Sport fishing has gained prominence in Uganda since the early 90’s and is among the top things to do in Uganda. The local population and Uganda’s middle class have not fully embraced this amazing activity. Sport fishing is perfect for family bonding or getting together as a group of friends. One does not need to have any prior experience fishing in order to take part in this sport. In most cases, all one needs to do is join the company of experienced anglers who will teach them a thing or two about the sport.

The River Nile and Lake Victoria are arguably the two best fishing spots in Uganda as we shall find out later. The main method of catching fish in these two famous water bodies is by casting lures or using live baits to catch the Nile Perch, Tilapia and Tiger fish. Fishing in Uganda is incredible because it involves spotting Africa’s famous wildlife and the amazing scenery. The possibility of encountering dangerous creatures like crocodiles make the trips even more exciting and adventurous. However, safety is paramount and in most cases anglers are escorted by armed rangers from the park offices just in case you encounter hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes or elephants. Anglers do not go near crocodile infested sections of the lakes or rivers.

Sport fishing is usually arranged for several days and this requires one to have deep interest in the sport and of course some level of fitness and patience. Fishing gear including powerful speed boats can be hired out by companies or hotels. You might be interested in our gorilla tour packages or the cost of gorilla trekking.

Best place for sport fishing in Uganda

The Ssese Islands of Lake Victoria: Although one of the best things to do in Entebbe is fishing, the nearby Ssese Islands are a better destination. To reach the Sesse Islands, one needs to take the ferry from Nakiwogo landing site in Entebbe to Kalangala island. There are about 84 Ssese Islands all offering amazing fishing opportunities. Many are virgin and rarely visited. Fishing in Lake Victoria is done all year long but the months between October and March are best for sport fishing. To visit the various islands in the Lake, a speed boat is important. The hotels in Kampala and Entebbe can provide the boats including experienced anglers to accompany you to the best fishing spots. Equipment can be provided but it is recommended that you travel with your own. Fishing in Lake Victoria can be done from 9:00am to 5.00pm. During the rainy season, the lake can become very calm and clear offering great chances to catch tilapia. During the dry season, there are massive waves in the lake which can affect the activity. During such times, the sheltered bay is preferable for fishing. Night fishing trips are also arranged in Lake Victoria but it is not advisable to avoid fishing during the full moon. Fishing in Lake Victoria can start from Munyonyo in Kampala, or around the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (Zoo) in Entebbe. As already noted, the most common fishing method in Lake Victoria is trolling with lures. Tilapia can be caught by the fly fishing method.

The Murchison falls National Park: This park is located 340 kilometers away from the Kampala city. The park can be reached by road or by taking a chattered flight from Entebbe International Airport to an Air Field in the park. The river Nile passes in the middle of the park as it continues its way to South Sudan forming two major waterfalls – Murchison and Karuma. The Murchison falls is the most attractive of the two waterfalls found in the park. This Murchison Falls form when the Nile water squeezes through two rocks before exploding 40 meters down in a mighty fall. The Murchison Falls National Park is a great place to go for fishing while in Uganda. The turbulent falls are rich in oxygen which attracts huge Nile perch – Some weighing over 90 Kilograms. The largest on record was 108 kilograms. The section of the river Nile flowing through the park is also home to Tilapia, catfish, Tiger fish (Awaka), barbell, Tilapia, ferocious fighter, Angara and yellow fish among other species. Fishing is usually done by boat around the banks of the river although anglers can walk to the base of waterfalls to throw their lines.

Sport fishing in the Murchison Falls National Park is organized by two lodges – Paara and Chobe. The best fishing grounds are at the base of the falls. Instead of going right next to the falls, one can choose to stand on the rocks at the quiet section of river (downstream) where they can throw their line in the deep waters. There are also several calm pools downstream which are isolated from the main river that should be considered. The pools are home to large Nile Perch, Tilapia and giant cat fish. If you want to discover more, you can choose to go fishing downstream to the Albert Nile by boat. You could even go all the way up to Adjumani and Moyo where you will be looking specifically for the angara. Angara is a favorite dish of the people in Moyo and Adjumani.

The price for sport fishing in Murchison falls national park is $50 per day or $150 for four days. You would need to also pay park entrance fees in a separate arrangement. Sport fishing in Murchison Falls National Park is guided by a policy of catch and release. The greatest reward is holding a 100 kilogram Nile perch close to your chest or boat and taking some amazing photos to show your friends and the world. The two lodges, ensure that anglers are safe while in the water by assigning very experienced guide to lead the team. They use modern fishing technologies/techniques. One of the advantages of sport fishing at the Murchison Falls National Park is that you can also choose to go for game drives, chimpanzee trekking in Budongo forest or launch cruises at the bottom of the falls to see wild game.

Lake Mburo National Park: Lake Mburo National Park is one of the top sport fishing destinations in Uganda. It is the closest national park to Kampala city and it takes on three hours of driving by road to get there. The park has five lakes but most of the fishing is done at the largest of them all – Lake Mburo. Lake Mburo has six main species of fish. Tilapia is the most dominant species here. The Mazinga spot is the best fishing place in Lake Mburo because it is free from crocodiles and hippos.  One is required to pay $15 for a fishing permit by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. You need to bring your own fishing equipment. Fishing in Lake Mburo is special because Anglers can arrange to have the fish prepared as a meal by their hotel.

Sipi Falls: The Sipi Falls in Eastern Uganda are also considered a great fishing destination. The falls are located close to the border between Uganda and Kenya along the slopes of Mountain Elgon. The top species to look out for is the rainbow fish which weighs around 3 kilograms. Apart from the fish, you can visit all the waterfalls or the local coffee plantations. Climbing mount Elgon is one of the top two most attractive things in the area. Apart from the waterfalls and mountains, the scenery is just too breathtaking. The area is mountainous and you can get amazing views of the vast Karamoja plains.

Source of the Nile Jinja: The source of the Nile in Jinja is one of the best places to go for sport fishing in Uganda. The most impressive catch is the massive Nile Perch but Tilapia is also an impressive catch. After fishing one can go to see the Gandhi monument, visit Mabira forest, take part in white water rafting, kayaking, Ssezibwa falls, bungee jumping, quad biking, horseback riding or visiting the local communities.

What you need to know about Sport fishing tours in Uganda

1. Sport fishing is carried out throughout the year in Uganda. If you are planning to do sport fishing at Murchison falls national park, then the best time to visit is during the dry season. This is also the perfect time to combine fishing with a visit to see some of Uganda’s wildlife.
2. The main sport fishing methods in Uganda is by using a live bait or casting lures. Casting lures are particularly suitable for catching the Nile Perch. The smaller Tiger fish is is often used as bait like. To catch the Nile Perch and other larger species like Tilapia or lung fish, we suggest you use a road that is about three meters with either a multiplier reel or fixed spool. For the smaller species, a rod with a line of about 4 kilograms is enough.
3. Sport fishing during the dry season can be a challenge to anglers. The temperatures can be very high and it is important to come prepared with sun screen, a hut and the right clothing. Try to go fishing with enough drinking water so that you don’t get dehydrated. You also need to have insect repellent to keep away mosquitoes and the dreaded tsetse flies.
4. Other items to consider bringing for your fishing trip include sandals, hiking shoes (for sharp rocks) a camera to take photos of your expedition, a binocular to spot the water birds. Don’t forget to bring spare batteries for any of your electrical gadgets. The clothing’s should include a short, T-shirts and also a rain jacket if you are traveling during the rainy season. A sweater will keep you warm during the cold evenings. As you head out of your hotel or lodge, you might need your medication, and toiletries packed in a light backpack. Do not forget to pack lunch which can be in form of sandwiches, salads, hot dogs. You can also move with drinking water, sodas, tea/coffee or beer.
5. It is recommended that Anglers bring their own favorite fishing gear even though they can be provided when required.
6. Sport fishing in Rwanda is not as developed as in Uganda.

Accommodation during a Sport Fishing tour

While on a fishing expedition in Uganda, you will find several accommodation facilities ranging from budget to ultra-luxury hotels. The final choice depends on how much you are willing to spend. If you are planning to fish in the Ssese Islands, then Brovad Sand Lodges would be a perfect place. In Kampala, Speke Resort Munyonyo organizes amazing fishing trips to the various islands of Lake Victoria. In fact, they have their own fishing pool.

While fishing in Murchison Falls National Park, there are over 30 accommodation facilities to choose from for the night. As already mentioned earlier, the most popular lodges offering fishing are Chobe Safari Lodge and Paraa Safari Lodge. Paraa Safari Lodge is built at the banks of the river Nile and is very close to the best fishing points. Chobe Lodge is also built close to the Nile and offers a great fishing experience. Chobe is a favorite of many anglers. Some of the largest Nile Perch have been caught by resident anglers from Chobe Lodge. Chobe lodge provides high quality fishing gear, Guides and boats to take anglers to the best fishing section of the River Nile. Some anglers might wish to set up their own mobile tents during their fishing trip. This can be arranged with the hotels at a good price while ensuring that you are safe out in the wild.