Fly-fish on the Orange River

About Fly-fish on the Orange River

The primitive desire of man to hunt accompanied by the barren desert day scenery, nights under the canopy of the unwished stars, the rush of the river... and the peace of mind of ablution blocks, showers and full catering services makes for a civilised adventure.

Inkwazi Fly-fishing Safaris run several fly-fishing camps during the winter months (May through September) on the Orange River in the Richtersveld National Park located on the South African side of the Namibian border. Inkwazi is a Zulu word for Fish Eagle giving tribute to the popular appearance of the birds on these Orange River Fly-fishing Safaris. Winter months provide pleasant comfortable temperatures and low and clear fly-fishing water for both Large Mouth Yellow fish (South Africa's largest scaled fresh water species) and the Small Mouth Yellow fish, an indigenous favourite of the local fly angler. Targeted with specific fishing methods Mudfish as well as huge Barbel (Catfish) can be caught in the river.

Run by fisherman for fisherman these specialised camps are relaxed and successful with some anglers having caught in excess of 40 fish in a single day, a Largemouth Yellow fish of 13lbs had been taken through tested methods. These dedicated fly-fishing camps on the lower Orange River are designed for the pursuit of your trophy fish and your ultimate tale of 'I caught a fish this big'.

Three meals a day are provided as well as expert fly-fishing advice on the catching of these beauties. The experience of catching South Africa's finest fighting freshwater fish in the remote water of the Orange River is a highlight on the fly-fishing calendar and a great getaway package. Off road vehicles allow access to remote waters of the desert fishery. You are given wonderful opportunities to perfect your line control and nymphing technique, fishing fast and shallow water as well as rapids. You can sit leisurely around the camp fire at night and discuss notes amongst like minded anglers on how you took your fish using 'upstream indicative techniques' without the risk of being banned from the dinner table. No cellphone signal allows for an undisturbed experience with nature (there is a pay phone at the Nature Reserve entrance but one doesn't need to necessarily part with that information).

Finally you can hang a sign on your office door saying 'Gone Fishing' like you mean it! Better yet when you return and tell heroic tales of how you 'roughed it' without electricity (only gas) in the desert you will earn much more respect than the sissies who went snow skiing for their annual holiday.

A list of requirements, equipment and directions and routes is forwarded to you on booking. You are required to bring your own tackle, tents and sleeping bag. Transport can be arranged for you otherwise the meeting point is the Sendlingsdrift Gate at the Richtersveld Nature Reserve.

Happy Fishing!