Most rivers and lakes in Zambia carry good stocks of fish, giving
very reasonable sport. But the angler must be prepared to travel
long distances over rough roads, carrying his own camp equipment and finally making his
camp beside the river he intends to fish.
There are very few hotels off the main
roads, and fewer still in fishing areas, though the Tourist Board is conducting a
successful drive for more hotels and rest houses, particularly the lodges in the national
wildlife parks, where good fishing is to be had on the rivers.
For parties who appreciate camping holidays in the bush, some
delightful trips can be planned, particularly in August and September, when there is
little fear of rain and the nights are warm enough to make camping pleasant.
Most of the
rivers are either heavily wooded right down to the water or are swamp-edged, so the
addition of a boat and outboard motor to the camp equipment is a sound policy. On the
other hand, canoes and paddlers can be hired, and the latter are usually good guides to
the best fishing grounds. Youths are also very helpful as camp attendants, and little
trouble is normally experienced in hiring one or two to take care of the heavy work of the
camp.
The visiting fisherman must remember that the hippopotamus and crocodile are
found in nearly all Zambian waters. Wading in rivers can be a dangerous pastime, and
hippos, especially with calves, should be given a wide berth. An insecticide spray against
tsetse fly and a malarial prophylactic are recommended.
FISHING IN
ZAMBIA
