Lake Tanganyika Perch
Ndole Bay, Zambia
Lake Tanganyika, the world’s second largest & deepest freshwater lake, is home to over 350 species of fish, many found nowhere else on Earth, including the endemic tanganyikan perch, elusive tigerfish, and stunning giant cichlids.
Accommodation
Lakefront Lodge
Season
September – April
Species
Tanganyikan Perch, Lake Salmon, Tigerfish, Vundu, Cichlids
Style
Trolling, Spinning, Fly-fishing
The Most Diverse Freshwater Lake on the Planet
Highlights:
- Lake Tanganyika hosts over 350 species of fish, and more than 250 of those are endemic (found nowhere else), making it the most biologically diverse lake in the world.
- Native to Lake Tanganyika, and a close relative of the Nile Perch, the Tanganyikan Perch can reach lengths of over 1.8 meters (6 feet) and weigh up to 100 kilograms (220 pounds), making it one of the largest freshwater fish species in Africa.
- Proximity to Nsumbu National Park: Located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Nsumbu National Park offers a rare combination of beach and bush, with opportunities to see wildlife like elephants, buffalo, roan antelope, and hippos in a remote and unspoiled setting.
- Lakefront lodging & Water Activities: Enjoy snorkeling, SCUBA diving, kayaking, and a range of other activities in the crystal-clear waters of the lake.
8 DAY PACKAGE
$2,300 per angler
- Six nights lakefront lodging at Ndole Bay, Lake Tanganyika.
- One nights accommodation in Kasama.
- Four days guided fishing, boats + fuel.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner at the lodge.
- Roundtrip 4×4 transfers from Kasama to the lodge.
Fishing in Lake Tanganyika is an unforgettable experience, offering anglers the chance to target a range of powerful freshwater species in one of the most unique aquatic ecosystems on Earth. As the longest and second-deepest freshwater lake in the world, Lake Tanganyika holds more than 350 recorded fish species—many of them endemic—and delivers freshwater angling unlike anywhere else. The lake’s location in the Great Rift Valley has created an ancient, crystal-clear environment where both lure and fly anglers can cast for an extraordinary array of fish.
The lake is most famous for the Tanganyikan Perch (Lates angustifrons), a massive predator closely related to the Nile Perch that can exceed 100 pounds. Also prominent is the Giant Cichlid (also called Nkupe or Emperor Cichlid), a hard-fighting, schooling fish often found herding baitfish into tight balls near the surface. These fish offer thrilling surface takes on flies and lures. Tigerfish, although less abundant here than in the Zambezi, still lurk along the rocky shorelines and deliver explosive strikes when encountered. Anglers can also expect to catch a variety of bream species, three other perch species, and even the elusive Goliath Tigerfish, all set against a surreal backdrop of clear water, rocky islands, and rich biodiversity.
Fishing on Lake Tanganyika isn’t just about the fish. The surrounding Nsumbu National Park and nearby conservation areas provide a vibrant African wilderness experience, home to elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species. It’s not unusual to spot game along the shore while casting into crystal-clear water. Whether you’re targeting perch in the depths or chasing surface-feeding nkupe, Lake Tanganyika offers a rare and spectacular fusion of sportfishing and safari in one of Africa’s most untouched corners.
Ndole Bay Lodge is a remote, beautifully situated retreat on the Zambian shores of Lake Tanganyika, offering visitors direct access to one of the world’s most unique and biologically rich freshwater ecosystems. Nestled just outside the boundary of Nsumbu National Park, the lodge combines comfortable, eco-conscious accommodation with the wild charm of northern Zambia. It’s the only full-service lodge in this part of the lake, making it a top choice for anglers seeking both adventure and relaxation in an unspoiled setting.
Guests at Ndole Bay Lodge can enjoy private beachfront chalets with panoramic views over the lake, and a wide range of activities from world-class fishing and snorkeling over vibrant underwater reefs, to scuba diving, kayaking, and sunset cruises. The lodge is also a hub for exploring the surrounding wilderness, with guided walks, birding, and boat safaris offering close encounters with the area’s diverse wildlife. With its warm hospitality, fresh meals prepared from locally sourced ingredients, and access to prime fishing waters teeming with perch, nkupe, and tigerfish, Ndole Bay Lodge is the ideal base for experiencing the magic of Lake Tanganyika.
Ndole Bay Lodge is located on the southwestern shore of Lake Tanganyika in northern Zambia, near the edge of Nsumbu National Park. Geographically, it lies within the Great Rift Valley, a dramatic and geologically active region that stretches across eastern Africa. The lodge is accessed via an overland 4×4 journey from Kasama, making it one of the more remote and exclusive destinations on the lake. Its position on the Zambian side of Lake Tanganyika offers both easy access to protected fishing waters and stunning views of the Congolese mountains across the lake.
How to get there:
The best way to get to Ndole Bay Lodge is to fly from Lusaka to Kasama with Proflight Zambia, followed by a scenic 5-6 hour 4×4 drive to the lodge. This overland journey takes you through picturesque rural landscapes, offering a great way to experience the local environment before arriving at the lodge.
Documents Required:
To visit Zambia, you will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity and two blank pages, a visa (which can often be obtained on arrival or through an e-visa application), and a yellow fever vaccination certificate if coming from a country with yellow fever risk. Additionally, you may need to show proof of a return ticket and sufficient funds for your stay. Be sure to verify specific requirements with the Zambian embassy or consulate before traveling, as regulations may change.
Travel Arrangements:
We will advise on best flight options, as well as any other travel related questions.
8-Day/7-Night Itinerary –
Day 1: Sunday – Travel to Ndole Bay Lodge
- Morning: Depart Lusaka on Proflight Zambia Flight P0 440 at 07:55, arriving in Kasama at 09:30.
- Midday: Take a 5.5-hour 4×4 transfer from Kasama to Ndole Bay Lodge, located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
- Evening: Arrive at the lodge, check-in, and enjoy a welcome dinner with stunning views of the lake.
Day 2–6: Monday to Friday – Fishing and Activities
- Fishing Days: Enjoy four full days of fishing, targeting species like Tanganyika Perch, Giant Chichlid, and Tigerfish. You will explore different fishing spots around the lake with the opportunity to try various techniques like trolling, spinning or fly fishing.
- Activity Day (Wednesday): Take a break from fishing with a day of leisure activities, such as snorkeling, a sunset lake cruise, or a nature walk in Nsumbu National Park for wildlife viewing.
Day 7: Saturday – Return to Kasama
- Morning: After breakfast, begin your 5.5-hour transfer back to Kasama.
- Afternoon: Arrive in Kasama and check into a guesthouse/lodge for an overnight stay.
- Evening: Relax and enjoy your evening in Kasama.
Day 8: Sunday – Return to Lusaka
- Morning: Depart Kasama on Proflight Zambia Flight at 10:50, arriving in Lusaka at 12:10.
Rates per angler: $2,300 (based on 4 anglers in group, 2 anglers per boat)
What’s Included:
- Six nights lakefront lodging (Sunday to Saturday) at Ndole Bay Lodge.
- One nights accommodation in Kasama, dinner and airport transfer.
- Four full days guided fishing on Lake Tanganyika. Fishing guide, boat, fuel (2 anglers per boat). 8 hours of fishing per day.
- Round-trip 4×4 transfers from Kasama to Ndole Bay.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner at Ndole Bay.
- National Park fees and angling fees.
- Fishing equipment.
What’s Not Included:
- Staff gratuities.
- Bar Charges.
- Airfare to Zambia and flight from Lusaka to Kasama.
- Travel Insurance.
GALLERY
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why is Lake Tanganyika considered one of Africa’s most unique fishing destinations?
Lake Tanganyika is the world’s second-deepest freshwater lake and holds an extraordinary diversity of fish species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. Anglers come here to target the legendary Tanganyikan perch, while nature lovers are drawn to its crystal-clear waters, dramatic escarpments, and the sense of remoteness that few lakes in the world can match.
What makes the Tanganyikan perch a bucket-list species for anglers?
The Tanganyikan perch (Lates angustifrons) is one of Africa’s largest freshwater predators, known to reach weights over 200 pounds. Renowned for its powerful runs and deep-water fights, this fish is the ultimate trophy of Lake Tanganyika. It is targeted using trolling, deep jigging, and live bait, offering anglers a chance at one of the most formidable freshwater battles in the world.
Where is Ndole Bay and why is it a popular base for exploring Lake Tanganyika?
Ndole Bay lies on the Zambian shoreline of Lake Tanganyika, just south of Nsumbu National Park. It is a tranquil beach location offering comfortable lodges, easy access to fishing grounds, and a blend of activities such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and village visits. For anglers, it’s the most convenient and scenic base from which to launch fishing adventures for Tanganyikan perch.