Top 5 Tigerfishing Destinations in Africa

By zainab loonat
2 min read

Top 5 Tigerfishing Destinations in Africa

If you’re looking to catch Africa’s most ferocious freshwater predator, the tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus), then you’ll want to head to the continent’s most legendary tigerfishing hotspots. With their lightning strikes, violent headshakes, and iconic red fins, tigerfish are the ultimate target for adventurous anglers.

Here are the top 5 destinations that every serious tiger angler should experience:

1. Zambezi River (Zambia/Zimbabwe)

Why it’s No. 1:

  • Home of the largest tigerfish in Africa (often exceeding 10kg)

  • Multiple sections to fish: Upper Zambezi, Lower Zambezi, and the Barotse Floodplains

  • Plenty of skilled guides, boats, and fishing lodges

Best time: June to October (dry season)

Travel tip: Fish near Victoria Falls or book a camp in the Barotse Floodplain for world-class action.

2. Lake Jozini (Pongolapoort Dam, South Africa)

Why it’s Unique:

  • The southernmost tigerfish habitat in Africa

  • Easily accessible from Gauteng and Durban

  • Great for both lure and fly fishing

Size range: Average 1kg, trophies up to 4kg

Best time: September to March, especially in summer heat

Travel tip: Combine tigerfishing with a safari experience in Pongola Game Reserve.

3. Okavango Delta (Botswana)

What Makes It Special:

  • Untouched wilderness and clear floodplain waters

  • Excellent sight fishing opportunities from boats

  • Combines world-class wildlife and fishing in one trip

Tigerfish size: Up to 7kg

Best time: May to November (when waters are clear)

Note: Limited access in rainy season; book early.

4. Lake Kariba (Zimbabwe/Zambia)

Why It’s Popular:

  • One of the largest man-made lakes in the world

  • Known for relaxed houseboat fishing trips

  • Plenty of tigerfish between 2–5kg with occasional bigger specimens

Best time: August to December

Travel tip: Charter a houseboat for an unforgettable multi-day fishing holiday.

5. Kafue River (Zambia)

Why It's a Hidden Gem:

  • Less pressured than the Zambezi

  • Beautiful, remote bushveld setting

  • Great for both conventional and fly tackle

Size range: 3–6kg

Best time: July to October (during the low water period)

Insider tip: Combine with a trip to Kafue National Park for unmatched wilderness angling.

Planning Your Tigerfishing Trip?

Make sure your gear is tiger-ready:

  • Heavy-action spinning rod (6ft+)

  • Size 3000–5000 reel with tight drag

  • 20–30 lb braid with steel trace

  • Fast-action plugs, spoons, flies, or live bait rigs

Shop Tigerfish Gear at Western Accessories

We stock everything you need to take on Africa’s fiercest freshwater predator. From heavy-duty rods and reels to trace wire, spinners, and fly tackle—we’ve got you covered.

👉 Browse our tigerfish-ready range here

Tight lines — and may your next strike be the monster tiger you’ve dreamed of!