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Damn Good Tanzania Fishing Guides

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Tanzania fishing trips. Deep Sea, River, and Nearshore trips available.

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides In Tanzania

Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Machame

River Fishing Trip in Machame

Kilimanjaro Trout Fishing

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Fishing in Matemwe

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Matemwe

HALF DAY TRIP

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20 ft 1 - 4 People From $300
Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Dar es Salaam

River Fishing Trip in Dar es Salaam

Tanzania Tiger Fish Safari

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Top Cities in Tanzania

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Other Trips in Tanzania

Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Dar es Salaam
Fishing in Dar es Salaam
Fishing in Dar es Salaam
trip description for Tanzania Tiger Fish Safari in Dar es Salaam

The trip begins in Ruaha National Park - Tanzania's 2nd largest NP and one of the largest protected areas in Africa - to chase tigerfish on fly and on poppers along the Ruaha River. Multiple days will be spent camping in the Msembe area of Ruaha to explore one of the best freshwater fishing destinations in Africa. The main focus will be the mighty tigerfish, one of Africa’s most iconic freshwater species. The species endemic to this area are related to the Goliath Tigers of the Congo Basin with fish over the 10lb mark in abundance. The best ways to target this toothy fish is with surface lures such as poppers and on fly. Beware the crocs and hippos while casting. While amenities and lodging are 5 star, you'll experience fishing in its most pure, natural form here. You'll be accompanied by armed game guards and will be able to fish parts of the African outback with no other humans around for tens of miles. Other species targeted on fly include a species of Barb closely related to the much sought after Yellow Fish of southern Africa. As an added bonus this trip also offers exceptional game viewing as Ruaha is home to famously large Elephant and Cape Buffalo herds, Kudu, Sable, Antelope, and over 500 bird species. The park is also home to 10% of the world's Lion population, Leopards, Cheetahs, and African Hunting Dogs. You will also be afforded the opportunity to travel 4 hours to the south east of the core game viewing area to the Usangu Plains region of Ruaha to explore fishing opportunities there as well. This trip is all-inclusive, and Dom will be happy to set up lodging, food, amenities, travel & flights, and anything else you might need for your stay in-country. Read More

River Fishing Trip in Dar es Salaam

Tanzania Tiger Fish Safari

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Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Machame
Fishing in Machame
Fishing in Machame
trip description for Kilimanjaro Trout Fishing in Machame

Get ready to fish for a population that has been untouched in over 100 years. In the late 1920’s, the first Rainbow Trout were brought to Tanzania by keen fishermen residing in the Usambara District. A small hatchery was established using eggs from neighboring Kenya and fry were released into a tributary of the Mkussa Stream on the estate of Major Sandwith. The climate of the West Usambara Mountains was considered ideal for trout to flourish and the acidity/alkalinity and average temperature of the rivers fell within the range in which Rainbow Trout are known to thrive (50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit). When these trout were successfully introduced into the rivers flowing off the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro, it was noted that the rivers flowing from the southern slopes of Africa’s highest mountain would also offer ideal conditions, most notably the Weru Weru and Kikafu Rivers. Abundant native insect species throughout the year increased the likelihood of trout to not only survive but eventually reproduce, and within two years, fish in the range of one to three pounds were caught. Fry have been observed to grow rapidly due to an abundance of food found in these rivers, most notably freshwater crabs and aquatic nymphs of various insect species such as mayflies and caddisflies. After introduction, political changes in Tanzania meant fishing became a forgotten pasttime, the hatchery program was abolished, and rainbows on Kili were forgotten and untouched. Fast forward almost 100 years and it is apparent that these early observations of the suitability of the Weru Weru and Kikafu Rivers were indeed correct and healthy, as self-sustaining populations of wild Rainbow Trout can be found in a number of rivers among the many sprawling ridges and canyons below Kilimanjaro, if you know where to look. These populations have held themselves steady for a hundred years with no intervention and no pressure from anglers. Days will be spent fly fishing for wild Rainbow Trout on light tackle or 2 weight rods on some of the tributaries flowing off Mt. Kilimanjaro. You will use a combination of off-road driving, hiking, and wading your way upstream to stalk rainbows hiding in the many rocky gullies and flows of these rivers. This trip is as much about the exploration as the angling. This trip is all-inclusive, and Dom will be happy to set up lodging, food, amenities, travel & flights, and anything else you might need for your stay in-country. Read More

River Fishing Trip in Machame

Kilimanjaro Trout Fishing

NEW
Fishing in Matemwe
Fishing in Matemwe
Fishing in Matemwe
trip description for HALF DAY TRIP in Matemwe

THIS PRICE IS NOT INCLUDED TRANSPORT FROM HOTEL TO MATEMWE (TRIP POINT). IF YOU BOOK TRANSPORT FROM US PRICE IS 50$. IF YOU STAY NEAR MATEMWE PRICE OF TRANSPORT IS 30$. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Matemwe

HALF DAY TRIP

NEW
20 ft 1 - 4 People From $300

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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Tanzania

What are the best fishing trips in Tanzania?

The best fishing trips in Tanzania are:

Why should I book a fishing trip in Tanzania with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 3 trips in Tanzania, and the most popular trips in the area are HALF DAY TRIP guided by Nassor, Tanzania Tiger Fish Safari guided by Dom, and Kilimanjaro Trout Fishing guided by Dom.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in Tanzania? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Tanzania.

What types of fishing trips are common in Tanzania?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Tanzania as well as river fishing and nearshore fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Tanzania are: 1. blue marlin, 2. yellowfin tuna, 3. mahi mahi, 4. barracuda, and 5. rainbow trout.

The most common fishing techniques in Tanzania are fly fishing, topwater fishing, and trolling but jigging and heavy tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much does a Tanzania fishing trip cost?

Prices in Tanzania can range anywhere from about $2,240 to $10,000, but the average price for a half day trip in Tanzania is $300. The average price for a full day trip in Tanzania is $10,000.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in Tanzania?

The most popular season for fishing in Tanzania is summer, and most anglers book their trips 0 days in advance.

Do I need a Tanzania fishing license and what are the bag limits in Tanzania?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Tanzania, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Tanzania. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Tanzania.

What is fishing in Tanzania all about?

Fishing in Tanzania offers a diverse range of experiences due to the country's rich aquatic environments, both in freshwater and saltwater. Along the coast, particularly in areas like Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam, anglers can enjoy some of the best deep-sea fishing in the Indian Ocean. The warm waters around these regions are teeming with a variety of big game fish, including marlin, sailfish, and tuna. These areas are popular for sport fishing, with many local operators providing charters and equipment for both novice and experienced anglers.

Inland, Tanzania boasts some excellent freshwater fishing opportunities, especially in its large lakes and rivers. Lake Tanganyika, one of the African Great Lakes, is renowned for its diverse fish species, including the coveted Nile perch, which can grow to impressive sizes. Lake Victoria, another major fishing destination, is famous for its tilapia and the Nile tilapia, which are integral to the local cuisine and economy. These lakes offer a range of fishing methods, from traditional handlines to more modern techniques.

Additionally, the rivers in Tanzania, such as the Rufiji and the Selous, provide great fishing opportunities for those seeking a more tranquil setting. These rivers are home to various species, including tiger fish and catfish, which attract both local fishermen and visitors. The combination of diverse fish species and beautiful natural settings makes fishing in Tanzania a rewarding experience, catering to those looking for both adventure and relaxation.

What are the most popular months to go fishing in Tanzania?

Fishing in Tanzania is influenced by the country's distinct wet and dry seasons, which impact both freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities. The coastal regions, including popular spots like Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam, experience peak fishing conditions during the dry season from June to October. During these months, the weather is typically sunny and calm, with stable sea conditions that make it ideal for deep-sea fishing. This period is particularly favorable for targeting big game fish such as marlin and sailfish, which are more active and easier to catch when the waters are calmer.

Inland, the fishing seasons are closely tied to the patterns of rainfall, which affect the water levels in lakes and rivers. Lake Tanganyika and Lake Victoria, for example, have their prime fishing seasons during the dry months from June to September. Lower water levels during this time make it easier to access fishing spots and improve the chances of catching species like Nile perch and tilapia. Conversely, the wet season from November to May can lead to higher water levels and increased river flow, which might make fishing more challenging but can also bring in different fish species.

Overall, while the dry season is generally the best time for fishing along the coast, freshwater fishing in Tanzania can be productive throughout the year, with varying conditions depending on the specific lake or river. Understanding these seasonal patterns can help anglers plan their trips to make the most of their fishing experience, whether they're targeting big game fish in the ocean or pursuing freshwater species in Tanzania’s lakes and rivers.

What types of fishing are popular in Tanzania?

Fishing in Tanzania offers a variety of techniques tailored to its diverse aquatic environments, from the Indian Ocean coast to its inland lakes and rivers. In the coastal regions, deep-sea fishing is a popular choice, with techniques such as trolling and bottom fishing commonly used. Trolling involves dragging lures or bait behind a moving boat to attract large pelagic species like marlin and sailfish. This method is effective in the warm waters off Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam, where these big game fish are abundant. Bottom fishing, which targets species such as tuna and snapper, involves dropping baited hooks to the ocean floor, often yielding impressive catches.

Inland, the fishing techniques vary depending on the waterbody. For lakes like Tanganyika and Victoria, both traditional and modern methods are employed. Anglers often use handlines or simple rods for catching Nile perch and tilapia, while more advanced setups might involve using spinning or baitcasting gear. Fly fishing is also gaining popularity in some of these areas, especially for targeting species like Nile tilapia in Lake Victoria. The calm waters of these lakes provide a serene backdrop for a variety of fishing methods.

Rivers in Tanzania, such as the Rufiji and Selous, offer different fishing techniques suited to their flow and fish species. Here, anglers may use spinning or bait fishing to catch tiger fish and catfish. These rivers often require adaptive approaches, such as adjusting bait and techniques based on water conditions and fish behavior. Overall, Tanzania's diverse fishing environments support a range of techniques, from deep-sea adventures to tranquil freshwater fishing, catering to a wide array of fishing preferences.

What species are popular for fishing in Tanzania?

Fishing in Tanzania provides access to a diverse range of species, thanks to its varied aquatic environments. Along the coast, anglers can target several prized game fish in the Indian Ocean. Marlin, including both blue and black varieties, are highly sought after for their size and challenging fight, making them a favorite among sport fishermen. Sailfish, known for their spectacular jumps and vibrant colors, are also common in these waters, providing an exciting catch for those looking to test their skills. Additionally, tuna species, such as yellowfin and skipjack, are prevalent and offer both a thrilling fight and excellent table fare.

Inland, Tanzania's lakes are renowned for their abundant freshwater species. Lake Tanganyika, one of the African Great Lakes, is famous for its Nile perch, which can grow to impressive sizes and provide a rewarding catch. This species is particularly appealing due to its strength and size. Lake Victoria, another major fishing destination, is known for its tilapia and Nile tilapia, which are essential to the local diet and economy. These fish are not only common but also offer a satisfying catch for anglers seeking both sport and sustenance.

Rivers such as the Rufiji and Selous are also notable for their diverse fish populations. The tiger fish, known for its aggressive strikes and formidable fighting ability, is a major draw for freshwater fishing enthusiasts. Catfish, including various large species, are also found in these rivers and offer a different challenge for anglers. Overall, Tanzania's fishing opportunities cater to a wide range of interests, from big game fish in the ocean to robust freshwater species in its lakes and rivers.

What are the best places to fish in Tanzania?

Tanzania boasts several prime fishing locations, each offering unique opportunities due to its diverse landscapes and aquatic environments. Along the Indian Ocean coast, Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam stand out as top destinations for deep-sea fishing. The waters off these areas are known for their rich marine life, including prized species like marlin, sailfish, and tuna. Local charters are readily available to guide anglers to the best fishing spots, making these coastal regions ideal for both novice and experienced fishermen seeking big game fish.

Inland, Lake Tanganyika is a renowned destination for freshwater fishing. As one of Africa’s largest and oldest lakes, it is famous for its abundant Nile perch, which can grow to impressive sizes and offer a thrilling challenge for anglers. The lake’s unique biodiversity also includes various other species that attract both local and visiting fishermen. The serene environment and clear waters of Lake Tanganyika make it a peaceful yet exciting place to fish.

Another significant spot is Lake Victoria, which is equally popular among freshwater fishing enthusiasts. The lake is renowned for its tilapia and Nile tilapia, which are crucial to the local diet and provide a satisfying catch. Additionally, the rivers such as the Rufiji and Selous offer excellent opportunities for catching species like tiger fish and catfish. These areas are well-suited for those looking to experience both the tranquility of river fishing and the thrill of landing a robust freshwater catch.

Does Tanzania have good fishing?

Tanzania is an exceptional destination for fishing, offering diverse experiences that cater to both saltwater and freshwater enthusiasts. The country's coastline along the Indian Ocean is renowned for its excellent deep-sea fishing opportunities. Areas like Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam provide access to rich marine environments where anglers can target large game fish such as marlin, sailfish, and tuna. The stable weather and nutrient-rich waters make these coastal regions ideal for sport fishing throughout the year, attracting both local and international fishermen.

Inland, Tanzania's lakes and rivers also offer excellent fishing opportunities. Lake Tanganyika, with its diverse fish species including Nile perch, is particularly notable for its large catches and scenic beauty. Lake Victoria, another major fishing hotspot, is famous for its tilapia and Nile tilapia, which are integral to the local economy and provide a satisfying catch. These freshwater environments offer a different kind of fishing experience, combining the serenity of the lakes with the thrill of landing significant fish.

Overall, Tanzania stands out as a fantastic fishing destination due to its wide range of fishing environments and species. Whether you are interested in deep-sea fishing off the coast or exploring freshwater lakes and rivers, Tanzania provides ample opportunities for both adventure and relaxation. Its combination of diverse fish species, beautiful landscapes, and favorable conditions make it a top choice for anglers seeking a memorable fishing experience.

The Best Places to Fish in Tanzania

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