The Nile Perch
Africa’s legendary freshwater predator
A fish of a lifetime
Nile perch are among the largest freshwater predators on earth. Powerful, aggressive and capable of reaching extraordinary proportions, they are one of Africa’s great game fish.
In the wild waters of the Nile, below Murchison Falls, fish of exceptional size exist. Every cast carries the possibility of a true river monster.
Fishing the Nile
Fishing for giant Nile perch is unlike anything else in freshwater angling. Strong currents, wild surroundings, and exceptionally powerful fish make every fishing trip memorable.
Using live bait and lures, we fish heavy tackle designed for the immense power of the perch. Fish between 20 to 40kg are common targets, while true giants can grow to over 100kg - making every take a genuine encounter with one of the world’s great freshwater predators.
New to Predator Fishing?
You don’t need to be an expert angler to join a Big Fish Africa expedition. If you have less experience, or simply want to build your confidence, your guide will spend part of your first day taking you through the basics of fishing for Nile perch — from tackle and bait presentation to playing and landing fish. You’ll have as much support as you need, while more experienced anglers are free to fish at their own pace.
Catch and release
Fishing for perch on the River Nile is within Murchison Falls National Park and the river is part of a conservation zone. Our fishing is based around careful handling and catch and release, giving every Nile perch the chance of returning strongly to the river.
We use appropriate heavy tackle to minimise fight times, handle fish carefully and return them as quickly as conditions allow. Protecting the Nile’s remarkable predators - particularly its largest specimens - is fundamental to safeguarding their future.
