NORTHEASTERN NAMIBIA - AN ANGLER’S PARADISE

The Okavango, Kwando/Linyanti and Zambezi rivers are the habitat of a rich diversity of fish - with 79 species recorded in the Okavango River and close to 100 species in the Upper Zambezi.

Although most species are of little interest to freshwater anglers, a dozen or so species rank high on the wish list of anglers, either because they are excellent table fish, because of their fighting spirit or in some cases both.

Northeastern Namibia is, consequently, not surprisingly a popular destination with freshwater anglers. The best time to cast your line is when the water levels are receding, with June to December generally being the most rewarding months. Angling methods, techniques and tackle vary considerably, depending on the species.

Following is a brief outline of some of the sought-after target species.



OTHER POPULAR SPECIES

The Sharptooth Catfish, also commonly known as the Barbel, is a popular angling target which takes skill and resilience to land. With a length of up to 1.4 m and weighing up to 54 kg, it is an aggressive and powerful fish with a tremendous fighting spirit. Other popular angling species include the Thinface Largemouth, Humpback Largemouth, Green Bream, Greenhead Tilapia and Redbreast Tilapia.

A freshwater angling licence is required for all inland waters. Licences can be obtained from Regional Council offices at Rundu and Katima Mulilo.



Acknowledgement: Some of the information was sources A Complete Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Southern Africa by Paul Skelton. This guide, published by Struik Nature, is an indispensable guide the freshwater anglers.

Illustrations: © NFR-SAIAB, Dave Voorvelt

Illustrations provided courtesy of the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity.

Photo credit: Willie Olivier.