As we kick off our 2024 season in Tanzania, both the Mnyera & Ruhudji River offers fresh challenges and opportunities for those seeking the prized tigerfish. After an intense wet season, the river has transformed, with new log jams and reshaped sections that provide exciting new structure for anglers. With the water levels dropping and deep channels emerging, it’s clear that this season is set to deliver exceptional tigerfish action.
As usual with the early season, the water is higher and fish numbers aren’t quite as abundant as later in the year. But let me tell you, the size of the fish we catch at this time is unrivalled. While the fishing can be tough, and some hard work is required, the rewards can be incredible. A standout example was a session this week on the lower beat of the Ruhudji River, which produced a stunning range of catches: 15lb, 17lb, 18lb, and finally, the elusive trophy fish we always hope for – a 20lb tigerfish! No matter how many times you see one of these giants, they never fail to blow your mind. These freshwater monsters are as impressive as they come!
After a long walk to lunch, one usually looks forward to a chilled moment with a cold drink in hand. Unfortunately for Kyle, this wasn’t the case. Upon reaching the lunch spot on rapid day, he grabbed a Coke, and as soon as he popped the cap, it exploded with the force of a gunshot, hitting him square in the cheek. Staggering like a wounded buffalo, with the cap half off and his sunglasses barely hanging by the strap around one ear, he realised what had happened when he felt the trickle of blood. The culprit? A wayward Coke bottle cap! But despite the mishap, Kyle still enjoyed his drink in the shade as we prepped for the afternoon fishing session at the Casing Rapids.
This week we also welcomed back some veterans of the location: Sieg, Quinton, Graham, and Yannie, all on their seventh trip. It was a week full of laughter, catch-ups, and plenty of time on the water, topped off with some epic fish!
This week’s featured fly, the Red and Black Brush Fly, continues to prove its effectiveness in landing trophy tigerfish on the Ruhudji River . Whether you’re an experienced angler or new to the river, mastering this fly will significantly enhance your chances of success.
CONTACT US
If you fancy doing battle with the hard-fighting Tigerfish of Tanzania, then our camp is the perfect destination for you. If you’d also like any further information, you can contact our fly fishing specialist Peter Collingsworth on 01603 407596 or email at peter@sportquestholidays.com.
