Trophy tigerfish

The completion of the first full season on the Mnyera and Ruhudji Rivers has been widely regarded as one of 2009's highlights in international fresh water fly fishing circles. The fish landed, virgin waters explored, and lessons learnt have all contributed to this sentiment. Watching a 20lb brute charge down ones fly in crystal waters, flanked by sparkling rapids and canopy forest, is as far removed from ‘traditional’ fresh water fly fishing as you could imagine.

Over the course of the season, with 37 rods, a total of 1140 tiger were landed and released. The average weight of fish was a touch over 7,4lb’s. 17 fish over 20lb’s were landed on fly (the only destination in Africa to have produced 20lb tigers on fly) and 272 fish between 15 and 20lb were successfully released. With a conservative estimate of 1 in 6 trophy fish landed, these figures offer an indication of the class of the fishery.

The last two weeks of 2009 saw our guides beginning to understand the feeding habit of a previously unheard of species called a ‘Gundu’. Over the course of the season 6 of these hard fighting fish were landed on fly. With our new found knowledge, and proposed tactics, 2010 should prove a very exciting season for anglers looking target these amazing fish on fly.

Catch data indicates that the strict beat rotation implemented in conjunction with a max of 4 rods per weeks, allowed for consistent fishing though out the season. With this in mind, the discovery of 40km of sublime waters in the far reaches of the concession has allowed us to spread the pressure further for the 2010 season. We will be sticking to a max of 4 rods per week, and extending the season to start in mid July 2010.

The Mnyera and Ruhudji Rivers are as wild and untouched as you are likely to find anywhere on the planet. For a paradigm shifting fly fishing experience, this unspoilt corner of Africa is it. - Keith Clover, Operations manager

To experience the Duma Tiger Safari, contact us