South African Yellow Fish

Hunt the powerful yellow fish on the stunning Orange River.

The Orange River is the longest in South Africa and extends from Lesotho to Namibia. Small-mouth and large-mouth yellow fish are indigenous and numerous; they are hard fighting and take a fly well although skilful presentation and determination is often required, particularly for the large mouth yellow fish which can reach 20lbs and above. We offer a variety of operations on the river, from a luxurious lodge overlooking the river to drift boat trips that involve overnight camps in remote, stunning desert areas. Combined with tiger fishing, shooting or photographic safari this a real adventure.

Fishing

Yellow fish are targeted by wading or from drift boats which allows more water to be covered. Small-mouth yellows can be sight fished for, taking small nymphs and dries, often in streamy water. Large-mouths tend to take streamers and live close to structure or weed beds where they ambush their prey.

Accommodation

There is some flexibility for these trips. We have one permanent lodge option which is ideal if you are looking for comfort or are travelling with a non-fisher. The other options explore the more remote areas using drift boats and staying in comfortable camps in different locations each night.

Gear

We recommend at least two outfits. A 9 foot 5 or 6 weight rod with a floating line for small-mouth yellows and then a 9 foot 7 or 8 weight rod with a variety of lines to target large mouth yellows. Flies include dries, nymphs and streamers. We will provide a full list on booking

Ask The Expert

Roddy Hall

Trip Specifics

Guests will normally fly into either Cape Town or Johannesburg airports. Depending on their itinerary a domestic flight of around 60-90 minutes will then be required to reach Upington, Kimberley or Bloemfontein. On arrival you will be met and transferred to the river to start your trip. We can cater for groups of four who want to do their own private drift trip or individuals or pairs of rods who prefer to join a large group or even do their own thing. Add-on trips tiger fishing, rock pigeon or wildfowl shooting or even relaxing on a wine farms can be co-ordinated with your fishing dates.

Rates

Rates start from around $1750 per person for a five day trip. This includes guided fishing, accommodation and meals but not any flights. Please contact us for a quotation as all trips will be customised to your requirements.