Stretching approximately 593 kilometres from the Cahora Bassa Dam in Mozambique to the Indian Ocean, the Lower Zambezi River winds through a vibrant mosaic of ecosystems — riparian forests, floodplains, sandbanks, oxbow lagoons, and open grasslands. The river also forms the natural boundary between Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park and Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Together, they anchor a critical transfrontier conservation area that safeguards biodiversity on both sides of the river.
For centuries, the Zambezi has played a vital role in the lives of local communities. Its name is believed to come from the Tonga phrase “yambezhi”, meaning “great river.” Once a thoroughfare for trade and subsistence, it now welcomes a more mindful kind of visitor — those who come to witness and experience it with care.
Why the Lower Zambezi is a Premier Fishing Destination
What sets this stretch of the river apart is its free-flowing nature. Unlike the dammed upper sections, the Lower Zambezi remains largely untouched, preserving its natural flood cycles and fish breeding grounds. This makes it one of the most ecologically valuable and productive fishing regions in Southern Africa.
The river is home to more than 75 fish species, with an intricate network of channels and still backwaters providing ideal conditions for fish to flourish — and for anglers to test their skills in waters that are as beautiful as they are bountiful.
What’s to Catch?
While the Lower Zambezi is rich in aquatic life, a few standout species continue to draw anglers from across the globe:
Tigerfish:
Often dubbed the “striped water dog,” the tigerfish is the crown jewel of the Zambezi. Known for their ferocious strikes and aerial acrobatics, these predators can weigh up to 15 kilograms. Their aggressive nature and fighting spirit make them a coveted catch for sport anglers.
Vundu:
Africa’s largest freshwater fish, the Vundu, can weigh up to 50 kilograms and often requires strength and stamina to land. Found in deeper channels, they’re bottom-dwelling giants that offer a slower but equally rewarding battle.
Other Species:
The river also teems with African Sharptooth catfish, Bream, and other native species offering diversity for every angler and technique.
When to Fish
While fishing is enjoyed throughout the season, those set on serious action will find August, September, and October to be the most rewarding months. As temperatures rise during the dry season, water levels drop and visibility improves — enticing tigerfish, among others, to the surface.
Fishing Techniques
The river’s ever-changing conditions make it ideal for a variety of angling styles. Depending on the season and your preferences, you might try:
Spinning: Effective in warmer months for tigerfish, using lures to mimic baitfish.
Fly Fishing: A rewarding challenge during the dry season when the water is clear.
Drift Fishing: A calmer, more patient method, ideal for species like vundu.
To preserve this extraordinary ecosystem, Zambezi Grande adheres to a strict catch-and-release ethic, allowing guests to enjoy the thrill of the chase while helping to protect fish populations for generations to come.
Fishing at Zambezi Grande
At Zambezi Grande, fishing is more than a morning activity, it’s a deeply sensory experience. Our professional guides know the river intimately and offer expert insight into its rhythms and hidden corners. Outfitted with well-maintained boats and top-quality gear, guests can expect a smooth and rewarding day on the water.
And when the rods are packed away, the magic continues. Evenings are best spent with a sundowner in hand, listening to the sounds of the bush and swapping stories of the one that got away.
