Sport fishing in Murchison Falls National Park presents a thrilling once-in-a-lifetime experience in Uganda. Sport fishing in the largest national park in Uganda, spanning around 3,893 square kilometers is done on the Nile River in the northwest of the country. Nile perch is the most common fish species considered by most anglers. Other fish species include catfish and tiger fish etc. The use of smaller fish as live bait is the method used for catching big fish like Nile perch. Other methods for sport fishing in Murchison Falls National Park involve lures.
How sport fishing is done in Murchison Falls National Park
Sport fishing along the Nile River in Murchison Falls National Park is done in a way that the fish is caught and photos are taken. Then the fish is released back into the river to continue its life cycle. For a successful sport fishing experience in Murchison Falls National Park, you will have to be accompanied by an experienced sport fishing guide from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Fishing is either done while you are on an engine boat or at the shores of the Nile River. Some anglers prefer sport fishing while standing on the stones near the base of the Murchison Falls.
Cost of sport fishing in Murchison Falls National Park
Sport fishing in Murchison Falls National Park is allowed after you present a valid sport fishing permit. The sport fishing permit is issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. A sport fishing permit in Murchison Falls National Park costs USD 50 per person per day. If you would love to enjoy 4 days of sport fishing you will have to pay USD 150 per person. If you prefer an annual sport fishing permit, you will have to pay USD 300. However, this is only applicable to East African Community citizens and foreign residents. Note that all these fees are separate from the park entrance.
With Standard Safaris you will acquire your sport fishing permit in a much convenient time. This is because we are a locally based tour operator, with the requisite experience and good reputation with the Uganda Wildlife Authority. You should also make reservations for your accommodation, meals, and additional activities in Murchison Falls National Park with us. Contact us for more details about your tailored tour package that includes sport fishing in Murchison Falls National Park.
The best time to go for sport fishing in Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park is open to visitors all year round, and this includes sport fishing activities. The dry months however offer better conditions for anglers to do sport fishing with fewer challenges. First of all, the weather is warmer and the air is drier compared to the humid conditions of the rainy season. The chances of rain falling are very minimal, therefore the experience is mostly continuous. The dry season is ordinarily expected from June to July. December to February is also a dry season but with more chances of showers.
How to travel for sport fishing in Murchison Falls National Park
On the road, Murchison Falls National Park is around 380 kilometers northwest of Uganda’s capital city, Kampala. Reaching there on a scenic drive will take you 6-7 hours along the Gulu highway and through Masindi district. For a consistent and comfortable transfer, full of insight, utilize the car hire services of Standard Safaris. Our English-speaking experienced driver will also ensure that your memorable trip is full of fun.
If you prefer air transportation because they are faster and offer aerial views of Uganda’s physical features, the option is available as well. AeroLink will offer you a scheduled flight from Entebbe Airport to Chobe or Pakuba airstrip. The flight lasts only an hour, making it more convenient for visitors who prefer short safaris. Book in advance, and we at Standard Safaris will also make convenient arrangements for you.
Other activities to enjoy with sport fishing in Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park is one of the best savannah national parks to visit. This is because a variety of activities are offered here that will increase your amusement options. These activities include.
Game drive
This is a thrilling experience in the northern sector of Murchison Falls National Park. While on a safari car, your driver guide will drive you through the game tracks in the open savannah to spot 4 of the Big 5 of Africa. These are lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes. Other beautiful wild animals to see are Rothchild’s giraffes, Jackson’s hartebeests, waterbucks, and warthogs. Also, expect to see birds like hooded vultures, Abyssinian ground hornbills, black-headed lapwing, and black-billed barbet.
Boat cruise
This is also a thrilling activity done on the calm waters of the Nile River. You will have a fun experience of moving on an engine boat. This is a perfect time to move a distance towards the base of the Murchison Falls, which is a great time to witness the world’s most powerful waterfalls. There are additional chances of spotting a variety of birds like the African fish eagle, pied kingfisher, goliath heron, long-crested crane, etc. You will also watch the rhinos, crocodiles, antelopes, and elephants along the river bank.
Birdwatching
This is an exciting guided excursion to see around 556 bird species that reside in this place. Come and see the long-crested eagle, grey crowned crane, Senegal thick-knee, shoebill, giant kingfisher, shoebill, piacpiac, Malachite kingfisher, and Denham’s bustard among others. Come with your pair of binoculars and a camera to enjoy your birding safari.
