Tiger fishing with Wild and Exotic on the Zambezi summary
The fishing on our selected stretch of the Lower Zambezi is as diverse as it is exciting, with opportunities for both the skilled and casual angler. Tiger fish on the fly are the target, however you can also catch tigers, massive vundu and other smaller species such as bream and nwembe whilst bait fishing. We recommend a 9 or 10 weight fly rod for tiger fish, with plenty of spare backing attached to a reel with a good drag system. The most successful technique when using an artificial fly is to float downstream on a pontoon and cast into the back eddies behind natural obstructions such as fallen trees and sandbanks. The fly is retrieved as quickly as possible and the resultant take can be so savage that it is advisable to wear protection to prevent fingers being burnt as line is torn from the reel. Tigers fight hard, leaping out of the water as they attempt to shake the fly free – which is often achieved, for tigers have hard and bony mouths. We enjoy a close association with the Chongwe River Lodge as well as a selection of other lodges in the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia that are suitable for both anglers and their non-fishing partners who in the company of an experienced guide, are able to explore the stunning Zambezi escarpment and National Park with its prolific concentrations of wildlife including lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo.
We enjoy a close association with Chongwe River Lodge, as well as a selection of other lodges in the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia that are suitable for both anglers and their non-fishing partners who in the company of an experienced guide, are able to explore the stunning Zambezi escarpment and National Park with its prolific concentrations of wildlife including lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo.
Please select the itinerary tab to view a suggested 6-day itinerary for our two preferred lodges thirty kilometres apart on the banks of the Zambezi River. Guests can choose from serious fishing expeditions, boat excursions, canoeing trips and game drives – there is no such thing as a set itinerary, the choice of how to spend your time at these magical lodges is entirely up to you. The lodges we use have experienced guides to accompany anglers, and Wild and Exotic will supply tackle lists and further detailed information on fishing the Zambezi on request.
This October 2016 Marina Gibson will be escorting a select group of anglers for a week-long stay at the delightful Kasaka River Lodge beside the mighty Zabezi river. Guests will fish in pairs targeting hard fighting tiger fish that attack flies with gusto at this special time of year, and there will also be opportunities to fish for Vundu and other species using conventional bait tackle. The game viewing should be utterly spectacular throughout the week with regular and close up sightings of buffalo, elephant, crocodile and hippo all present in large numbers, together with a diverse abundance of other wildlife.
25 year old Marina Gibson is a fanatical angler who spent much of her childhood chasing salmon, trout and sea trout throughout the Scottish Highlands. Since those early days Marina has devoted a significant part of her life to the pursuit of every type of fish at every available opportunity wherever in the world that may be. Marina is also ambassador at large for the prestigious Orvis fishing company, and is a qualified fishing instructor to boot. Her weekdays are spent in London but every week end summer and winter alike, she is to be found beside some river, lake or stream, doing what she does best – catching big fish. To discover more about Marina and her fishing adventures please visit www.marinagibsonfishing.com.
This sensational fishing adventure from 0ct 21 2016 (UK departure date) to 29th (UK return home date) is sure to be oversubscribed so please contact Wild and Exotic at the earliest opportunity to book your space on the African fishing adventure of a lifetime.
Marina Gibson Zambezi tiger fishing itinerary October 21st – 29th 2016
This October 2016 Marina Gibson will be escorting a select group of anglers for a week-long stay at the delightful Kasaka River Lodge beside the mighty Zambezi River. Guests will fish in pairs targeting hard fighting tiger fish that attack flies with gusto at this special time of year, and there will also be opportunities to fish for vundu and other species using conventional bait tackle. The game viewing should be utterly spectacular throughout the week with regular and close up sightings of buffalo, elephant, crocodile, and hippo all present in large numbers, together with a diverse abundance of other wildlife.
Marina Gibson is a fanatical angler who spent much of her childhood chasing salmon, trout and sea trout throughout the Scottish Highlands. Since those early days Marina has devoted a significant part of her life to the pursuit of every type of fish at every available opportunity wherever in the world that may be. Marina is also ambassador at large for the prestigious Orvis fishing company, and is a qualified fishing instructor to boot. Her weekdays are spent in London but every weekend summer and winter alike, she is to be found beside some river, lake or stream doing what she loves best – catching big fish. To discover more about Marina and her fishing adventures please visit www.marinagibsonfishing.com
This sensational fishing adventure is sure to be oversubscribed so please contact Wild and Exotic at the earliest opportunity to book your space on the African fishing adventure of a lifetime.
Friday 21 Oct 2016: Under your own arrangements you will arrive at London Heathrow in time to check in to EK 006, which departs at 22.15hrs.
Saturday 22 Oct: EK 006 arrives into Dubai at 08.05hrs. You will transfer to EK 713, which departs at 09.25hrs. On arrival into Lusaka international airport at 14.35hrs hrs you will check in to your flight to Royal Zambezi Airstrip. On arrival into Royal Zambezi you will be met and transferred to Kasaka River Lodge for a 6 night stay.
Sunday 23 Oct – Friday 28 October: The next 6 days will be divided between fishing and game viewing – the ratio is entirely up to yourselves, who will have to make the difficult decision between watching Africa’s largest and most beautiful mammals and casting for her most powerful and exciting fresh water game fish. Other activities such as canoeing trips are also available, during which you paddle past huge pods of hippos wallowing and grunting in the water, and disturb crocodiles that slip silently into the water as they hear your approach. Overnight Kasaka River lodge, which is located within yards of the mighty Zambezi River.
Friday 28 October: This morning will be spent at your leisure. This afternoon you will transferred to Royal Zambezi airstrip for your flight to Lusaka. On arrival into Lusaka airport you will check in to EK 714, which departs Lusaka at 21.25hrs
Saturday 29 October: Flight EK 714 arrives into Dubai at 06.40hrs.You will transfer to EK 029, which departs Dubai 09.40hrs and arrives back into London Heathrow at 14.20hrs the same day. End of Wild and Exotic services.
Notes:
The total price of this itinerary is £2595 per person based on two guests per twin bed room. For any guest requiring single accommodation the cost is an extra £170 per night.
The price is on full board basis and is inclusive of all activities included guided fishing, canoe trips and game drives, beverages (except for premier imported spirits/liqueurs/champagne and wine), laundry, National Park fees, airport transfers and passenger access fees in relation to landing at Royal airstrip.
Please note that apart from arrival and departure days (Oct 22nd and 28th) the guided fishing will be based on 2 guests fishing from one boat.
The price of the international airfares as per the itinerary in economy is currently £395 + £408 taxes. Please note this is the lowest fare currently available and is subject to availability. Early reservation of flights is strongly recommended as flight costs will increase significantly closer to departure date. As ATOL licence holders (our number is 6445) Wild and Exotic can block off seats in passengers names and secure best fare, with payment not being due until 8 – 10 weeks prior to departure. Up until then flights can be released at any time without penalty or charge to the passenger.
Please note that the cost of the domestic flights between Lusaka and Camp on October 22nd and 29th will be added to the final invoice as the exact cost depends on the number of guests joining the itinerary. This cost will not exceed £125 each way per person.
The price does not include items of a personal nature, gratuities and visa fees. This price does not include the domestic departure tax, which must be paid at Lusaka airport prior to departing for Royal Zambezi.
Please note that there is a luggage weight restriction on the Zambian domestic flights of 15kgs per person, and that passenger’s belongings should be packed in soft holdall style bags.
Please note that it is the responsibility of the client to ensure they obtain the correct visa prior to travel. Visas can be purchased on arrival at Lusaka international airport of US$50, payable in cash or by card.
Alternatively guests can purchase visas prior to departure. Wild and Exotic will assist with visa applications if instructed but cannot be held responsible for a client’s failure to obtain a visa for whatever reason. A valid visa is required for this holiday. Information on visas including the application form to download can be found on the following website: http://www.zambiahc.org.uk/visa_requirements.html
The address of the High Commission in London is: 2 Palace Gate Kensington London W8 5NG Tel: +44 (0) 207 589 6655
The contact details of our ground handlers in Zambia for the purpose of your visa application are Chongwe River Camp, PO Box CA102, Castle Post Office, Lusaka, Zambia, 10101.
Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic’s terms and conditions, a copy of which is enclosed with your booking form.
Wild and Exotic sample itinerary for tiger fishing on the Zambezi River
Day 1: Arrive in Lusaka International Airport and transfer for the private charter flight to Chongwe River Lodge, arriving in time for an early lunch beneath the shade of a towering mahogany tree. Afterwards enjoy a siesta in the comfort of your luxurious tented room or venture out onto the Zambezi River in pursuit of tiger fish with your experienced guide. Whatever your choice, you will probably want to return to the lodge in time to take a game drive in the late afternoon and search for elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard that frequent the nearby Lower Zambezi National Park, stopping at dusk to enjoy sundowners, before continuing your drive with the assistance of powerful spotlights that illuminate shy nocturnal mammals.
Days 2 – 6: The next five days will be divided between fishing, walking and game viewing – the ratio is entirely up to guests, who will have to make the difficult decision between watching Africa’s largest and most beautiful mammals and casting for her most powerful and exciting fresh water game fish. For the adventurous other activities such as canoeing trips are also available – during which you paddle past pods of wallowing and grunting hippos and disturb crocodiles that slip silently into the water as they hear you approach.
Day 7: This morning you will be faced with the difficult choice of deciding between a final fishing expedition or a last game drive in the stunning National Park. After the usual delicious brunch you are driven to the nearby airstrip for the flight back over the dramatic landscape of the Zambezi valley to Lusaka. On arrival you will be met by a representative of Chaminuka Lodge and driven to this comfortable lodge some fifteen miles from the international airport in Lusaka for an overnight stay. Here you can enjoy tours of Chaminuka’s private game reserve in an open-top safari vehicle, as well as riding walking, fishing and the use of all lodge facilities including tennis courts, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, and billiard room
Day 8: An early breakfast at Chaminuka, before being driven back to the international airport in Lusaka and checking into your flight home.
Notes:
Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic’s terms and conditions, a copy of which is available on this website under the general info tab.
Wild and Exotic fact sheet for recommended Chongwe River Camp
Accommodation: Chongwe River Camp consists of luxury tented chalets with en-suite bathrooms. Guests eat in a centrally located thatched dining room.
Activities: Although the stretch of the Zambezi at Chongwe River Camps is renown for an abundance of tiger fish and superb fishing, there is a wealth of other exciting diversions to enjoy. Game drives in open-sided four wheel drive vehicles are available for morning and afternoon excursions into the National Park, as well as night drives with powerful spotlights to illuminate rare nocturnal mammals. Guided walks into the bush are also offered. Many guests choose to spend a day exploring the river system by canoe with a picnic lunch, and an evening cruise aboard a comfortable pontoon to the backdrop of the setting sun is an experience not to be missed. Walking safari itineraries can also be arranged with sufficient notice.
Cash: Guests may wish to have small denomination $US available for staff gratuity at their discretion.
Children: Children under twelve years old cannot be accepted unless by special arrangement through Wild and Exotic.
Clothing List: A recommended clothing list will be sent on request, as will a list of recommended fishing tackle. A free laundry service is provided.
Drinks: All cordials and sodas, beers, spirits and wines are included in the price. Ice and lemon is supplied for drinks. Refreshments are provided with all activities and excursions.
Duration: In order to fully appreciate everything that Chongewe River camps has to offer we recommend a 6 night stay, however you may stay for as long or short a time as you wish.
Game: The Zambezi River provides food, water and shelter for large concentrations of game, especially during the dry season from August – November when alternative resources have been depleted. The Lower Zambezi National Park is famous for the diversity and quantity of wildlife populations it supports, including big herds of buffalo and elephant as well as lion, leopard and plains game.
How to Get There: International flights to Lusaka, followed by an onward private charter or scheduled flight to the lodge, which takes approximately 45 minutes. Alternatively guests may transfer by road, however this is a five hour drive and not recommended. We recommend that guests who are booked on international flights departing early in the morning leave the Zambezi the previous afternoon and fly back to Lusaka, where they are collected and driven to Chaminuka, a comfortable lodge 45 minutes drive from Lusaka international airport.
Location: Chongwe River Lodge is located on the banks of the Chongwe River, within the Lower Zambezi National Park
Meals: Dawn game drives or fishing outings are preceded by coffee or tea, bread and cakes with your morning wake-up call. A substantial brunch is served on return to the camp from your morning activity, and a light lunch in the early afternoon. Three course dinners with fresh ingredients are served each evening.
Safety: The Lodges is covered by Medical Air rescue services, who in the case of an emergency evacuation would use Kayila airstrip. There are medical aid kits for use in the boats and vehicles during activities and excursions, and a large medical aid and equipment kit (including oxygen) is at the lodge. The managers are also paramedic qualified. Guests are strongly advised to take anti malarial medication before and after their stay.
Single Supplement: There is a single supplement, however this may be waived at the discretion of the management and Wild and Exotic.
Terrain: Flood plain dotted with thorn and thick scrub, rising gradually to merge with the foothills of the Zambezi escarpment, whose rugged outline dominates the northern horizon. The mighty Zambezi River is the outstanding feature of the landscape as it carves its way seawards downstream of Lake Kariba, flowing through deep pools, shallow sandbanks and past thousands of islands. Many visitors to other African rivers are struck by the unusual clarity of the Zambezi’s waters.
Weather and best time to visit: Chongwe River Camp is closed between November and April. The fishing can be very good from April onwards, however the optimum time frame is considered to be from mid August to the end of October. Game viewing is best later in the year, when conditions are at their driest and vegetation has died back. The cooler months of a Zambian winter run from May until September, with temperatures dropping as low as 12 degrees centigrade during July nights, although they hover around 27 degrees during the day. These “winter” months represent the best time to visit. Temperatures are warm by day (high seventies) and cool at night with clear blue skies, although the weather is often equally as pleasant in March and April. The temperature becomes very hot in November and the rains also arrive during the course of this month.
Zambia general information and map
Capital: Lusaka
Getting there: Lusaka is serviced by regular direct flights from the UK. The flying time from London to Lusaka is approximately 10 hours.
Time: GMT plus two hours
Try not to miss: The Lower Zambezi National Park, as this is one of the most attractive and least visited national parks in Africa, teeming with wildlife drawn to the Zambezi River from July until October each year. Wild and Exotic use a selection of the valley’s best lodges, some of which also offer superb guided fly fishing for tiger fish. Expect to see buffalo, giant crocodiles, elephant, hippos, leopard, lion and a rich and colourful array of birdlife. We also arrange bespoke Edwardian walking safaris downstream of the park, where guests are accompanied by a mobile camp that affords the luxury and elegance of a 1920s Edwardian Safari complete with wind up gramophone and silver tea service, with days spent searching for buffalo and leopard in a wild and remote hills overlooking the Zambezi River.
The South Luangwa valley, where Robin Pope has pioneered his celebrated walking safaris. This 9000 square kilometre wildlife sanctuary marks the end of Africa’s Great Rift Valley and is home to elephant, buffalo, leopard, lion, giraffe, hippo, and over 400 species of birds. Please ask us for walking safari set departure dates from June to September.
No Zambian safari can only be considered complete without a visit to the awesome Victoria Falls, accurately described as the “the smoke that thunders”. Tongabezi Lodge offers the hiegest standards of service and comfort, and guests also have the choice of staying on the private island of Sindabezi. The activities include visiting the Victoria Falls, game drives, boating and fishing, as well as day trips to Livingstone Island.
Visas: All visitors from the UK require a visa, which can be purchased on arrival for $50, or organised in advance through the Zambian Embassy.
Why Zambia: Zambia offers unique and genuinely remote destinations for those wanting an unusual safari in areas that are less frequented by tourists. The great Zambezi river valley, together with its tributary the Luangwa, is rapidly establishing a reputation for magnificent wildlife spectacles.
