Okavango Delta : Nxamaseri Island Lodge

  • Location
  • Okavango Delta, Botswana
  • Type of fishery
  • Freshwater – tigerfish & bream. Fly fishing and light spinning
  • Season
  • Open all year round, best months are September & October
  • Accommodation
  • African bush style lodge
  • Getting there
  • International flight to Maun, charter flight to Nxamaseri
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In October of every year, as the flood waters recede from the plains of the mighty Okavango Delta, an incredible feeding frenzy takes place in the Okavango River. The baitfish and small fry that were sheltering in the shallows are forced back into to deep channels by the dropping water levels. This triggers a massive run of freshwater barbel (catfish) that move up the river feeding on the hapless baitfish, closely followed by large numbers of the infamous tiger fish. The runs are a spectacle in their own right - the barbel create a huge commotion and noise as they flush the baitfish out from under the papyrus and grass beds along the banks, only to be smashed by the ferocious tigers that follow! The fishing is red hot during this period, and fantastic numbers of tiger fish, barbel and bream can be taken on fly and light spinning gear.

The Okavango delta is home to over 400 species of birds and one of the most world-renowned wetland systems in the world – it’s truly a bird watchers utopia. There is an abundance of wildlife in the channels including, crocodiles, hippos and otters. Delightful Nxamaseri Island Lodge lies on an island right in the heart of it all, and a trip here is something not to be missed.

Accommodation

Situated on an island in the Nxamaseri River (a tributary of the main Okavango River), this quaint but fairly basic lodge offers an authentic African experience. It consists of secluded, en-suite chalets, shaded by indigenous forest, each with a private deck overlooking the water. Wooden walkways link to the main dining & bar area, and to a wooden jetty where you will board the boats each morning. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, food is absolutely brilliant and the drinks are cold.

The fishing

The prize target in these waters is the beautiful and powerful tigerfish. These ferocious fish are indigenous only to specific areas in southern Africa, and are renowned for their fighting qualities and aerial displays. All fishing is done from large, spacious motorised boats in the main channels and lagoons, positioned ahead of the runs as they move up river. When the runs are in full swing, huge numbers of tigers up to 12lbs can be landed each day. Local guides / skippers are incredibly knowledgeable and know the river and birdlife like the backs of their hands.

There is much more to do and see, and we invite you to contact us for further info.