Fishing safaris in Murchison Falls National Park

Briefly about Murchison Falls National Park and fishing in the park

In the heart of Uganda, the pearl of Africa, nestled in the tropical escarpments lies a cradle of beauty Murchison Falls National Park. A cradle far too spectacular only fit for imagination in its vast wilderness where mighty apex predators reign the savage kingdom with thundering roars echoing across the savannah to announce their rule. Murchison Falls National Park is the epitome of an untamed safari experience with various wildlife species that decorate its ecological systems. The park is located in the northwestern region of Uganda spanning about 3,840 square kilometers in land mass at 127 meters above sea level. The park is the largest protected area in the country. It is bisected by the Victoria Nile into two ecological systems with the southern part being savannah grass and woodland and the northern side dominated by tropical rainforests.

It was first established as a game reserve and named Bunyoro Game Reserve after the King of Bunyoro. A tsetse fly invasion in the area close to the park led to the evacuation of the inhabitants between 1907 and 1912. This area was then added to the game reserve hence increasing its size. It was later elevated to the status of a national park in early 1952. The park traverses through the districts of Buliisa, Kiryandongo, and Masindi. The Victoria Nile as it passes through the park is forced through an 8-meter-wide gorge before plunging into a pool. This sheer power and force form a thunderous roar heard over miles away forming the Murchison Falls. The park has a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna species including the Big 4 of the 5 animals, lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards. Other animals include warthogs, hyenas, giraffes, antelopes, and topis to mention but a few. The tropical escarpment of the park hosts primates like chimpanzees, vervet monkeys, olive baboons, and black and white colobus monkeys.

Fishing is another popular activity in Murchison Falls National Park where visitors actively fish in the Victoria Nile. Visitors interested in embarking on a fishing safari experience in the park require a fishing permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. This permit excludes the park entrance fees and other fees for hiring the fishing equipment. The fishing permits cost between USD 50 each day and USD 150 for four days. These permits can only be purchased through a registered local tour operator. Anglers with the help of ranger guides and experienced fishermen embark on a fishing safari downstream at the bottom of the falls on the river banks. Fishing in Murchison Falls National Park exposes the anglers to various fish species. These include the Nile perch, catfish, tiger fish, electric cat fish, and tilapia. However, it is very important to note that fishing safaris in Murchison Falls National Park are caught and released not for food. There are designated areas for fishing on the river where they are safe from predators and dangerous animals.

Where is fishing done in Murchison Falls National Park?

Fishing in Murchison Falls National Park takes place on the Victoria Nile. Fishing can be done either on the banks of the river on a rock or sailing in a boat on the river. There are two major fishing sites on the river in Murchison Falls National Park. These include near Paraa below the Murchison Falls and downstream after the Karuma Falls.

Fishing equipment

Fishing safaris in Murchison Falls National Park are done using modern technology and updated fishing techniques. These techniques include both the old net fishing techniques to the use of modern anglers. These techniques are safe and environmentally friendly ensuring to keep the river and environment safe for the aquatic species. The fishing equipment includes the following.

• Fishing rod
• Fishing reel
• Spinning rod
• Bait
• Fishing boat
• Life jacket
• Fishing permit issued by Uganda Wildlife Authority.

What to pack

The packing list for a fishing safari adventure experience in Murchison Falls National Park is exclusive to the essential personal materials independent of the fishing equipment. These items include the following.

• First aid box
• Waterproof shoes
• Waterproof trousers
• Short-sleeved shirt
• Reusable water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Sun hat
• Extra money
• A camera with enough batteries
• Plastic bags to cover your luggage, etc.

The best time to do fishing in Murchison Falls National Park

Fishing safaris in Murchison Falls National Park are best done during the dry season. This season runs from June to September and December to February. The dry season is characterized by humid temperatures with less rainfall and clear waters. This makes it very easy to spot the fish in the water before making a catch.

The wet season which runs from March to May and October to November does not favor fishing safaris in Murchison Falls. This is because the park receives heavy rains which increase the water levels and roughness of the river caused by the strong winds. These two deadly combinations are not safe for fishing safaris in the park.