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The Zambezi River is host to some of the most spectacular fresh water sport fishing in the world with plentiful Tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus, Latin for "striped river dog") and Tilapia amongst others. Potato Bush Camp offers both spinning and fly fishing, both strictly "catch and release" in accordance with the principles of the Lower Zambezi National Park fishing policy.
The most sporting and certainly the most fun fish to catch is the famous Tigerfish. A relative of the infamous piranha, Tigerfish have large carnivorous teeth, can grow to 15kg/33lb (the camp record is 11.3kg) and are renowned for their strength and spectacular "leaping out of the water" fighting performance.
Fishing is successful all year round, however the warmer months (September - December) are definitely the best months to catch Tigerfish. This is the breeding season when the fish are more active, feeding more regularly and are far more aggressive. The water level is typically lower and the visibility at its very best.
Potato Bush Camp has expert fishing guides and a range of boats to perfectly suit the real fishing enthusiast.
The camp supplies all fishing equipment, but for enthusiasts who prefer their own gear, the following is a guideline as to what to bring:
Medium - heavy action 15 - 20 lb spinning rods (6-7ft) and reels with 110 yd (100m) line capacity (2 piece rods are easier to travel with)
Wire leaders (30lb) are essential for Tiger fish, usually about 12 inches (30cm) long
Good quality sharp "Circle" hooks (3/0 up to 6/0)
15-20lb good quality line, preferably abrasion resistant (bring extra)
Snap swivels and swivels (120 - 130 lb)
Repala Magnums (4-6 inches long): Colours change daily depending on the time, conditions, visibility, so bring a range to choose from
Spinners: Good for both Tilapia and Tiger, so bring a mix of small, medium and large spinners, with a variety of colour reflectors
Spoons (7-8 ounce): Good for tiger
The tackle and technique for Tigerfish has been described as very similar to that of "Bone-fishing".
8-10wt fly rods with fast sinking line (4 piece rods are easier to travel with)
15-20lb tippets with 20-30lb short (4-6 inches) wire leaders
Tapered leaders are preferred, but not necessary
Flies: most commonly used are the streamer type with epoxy or weighted heads. Favourite colours are yellow, silver and red, black and silver, orange, white, chartreuse, yellow and blue. Length of flies range from 2-5 inches on either a 2/0 or 3/0 hook.
