Fishing at Chobe Savanna, Chobe National Park, Botswana

Savanna Lodge is situated on the Namibian side of Chobe River opposite Botswana's Chobe National Park which is well known for it's large heards of Elephant and buffalo, which can be sighted throughout the day. Being based 35 minutes up stream from the Zambezi and Chobe confluence one can fish the productive waters of the Chobe around the lodge or take a day trip up the great Zambezi.

The Chobe and Zambezi Systems are a true watery wilderness, teaming with wildlife and a large variety of fish species. It is an ideal place for the adventurous angler, both conventional and fly fisher to experiment in catching many different species on light tackle.

Our main quarries here are the numerous large colourful bream species, catfish, pike and the elusive tiger fish which is world renowned for it's fierce fighting capabilities and has earned the reputation of being one of the world's toughest freshwater fish to subdue, a true acrobat taking long runs throwing it's body out of the water shaking its head endlessly trying to dislodge any hook that comes into contact with it's bony jaws, with the lodges' record standing at 16,5lbs, larger fish have been seen.

Fishing methods vary, with lure fishing being the predominant method used. The large bream species like the nembwe's (olive bream), thin faced largemouth, humpback largemouths and three spots breams take artificials readily. One can also take earthworms and probe the lesser-known backwaters and lilly padded lagoons in search of the many vegetarian species of bream like the green head and pink happy's, which attain fairly large sizes and put up a good fight.

The tigers are also caught using various methods lure and bait fishing. These fish eagerly take a live or dead presentation but nothing beats a bulldog drifted behind the boat. These strange fish can be obtained from the local’s netters that occupy the many villages on the river's bank.

The lodge has a number of boats for hire with experienced fishing and bird guides, which have extensive knowledge of the area. Fishing tackle can be arranged at the lodge on request, but one is advised to bring his or her own.