Baia Lodge

Papuan black bass are the headline species at Baia and are widely regarded by anglers as one of the strongest and most aggressive freshwater fish in the world, pound for pound. They live among submerged timber, mangrove roots, rock bars and deep river bends, where they use the structure to their advantage. Strikes are often sudden and violent, followed by an immediate run back towards the snags, so anglers fish heavy tackle, strong leaders and hard-bodied lures designed to handle close-range punishment.

Their close relative, the spottail bass, is every bit as powerful and provides a second major target across Baia’s rivers and estuaries. Spottails are aggressive lure feeders and can be encountered around creek mouths, tidal channels and deeper structure. Mangrove jack share much of the same water and add another hard-hitting species to the mix, readily attacking diving minnows, soft plastics, stickbaits and surface lures around timber and mangrove edges.

The nearby reefs and offshore waters give anglers the option of targeting giant trevally, tuna, Spanish mackerel and a range of reef species when conditions allow. These sessions provide welcome variety, but the defining Baia experience remains the demanding, structure-based fishing for Papuan black bass, spottails and mangrove jack.

Baia Lodge offers simple, comfortable accommodation designed for anglers spending most of the day on the water. Rooms are spacious and generally arranged on a twin-share basis, with beds, fans, private bathrooms, hot water, flush toilets and 240V power. The setting is remote and practical rather than luxurious, with the emphasis on a clean, comfortable place to rest between fishing sessions.

Anglers are served three meals a day, with a mix of Western and Asian-style dishes, fresh seafood and locally available produce. Drinking water, soft drinks and snacks are also provided, and daily laundry is available. The lodge’s position beside Baia village gives it a strong sense of place, while the surrounding rainforest and river systems keep the atmosphere quiet, informal and closely connected to the fishing environment.

Baia Lodge is located beside Baia village on the remote northern coast of New Britain, surrounded by rainforest, mangroves and the river systems that make this region such a productive fishing destination. The lodge lies well beyond the main towns and tourist areas of West New Britain, giving anglers direct access to isolated water with very little fishing pressure.

Anglers travel through Port Moresby before taking a domestic flight of about one hour to Hoskins Airport, the gateway to Kimbe. On arrival, they are met and transferred to Liamo Reef Resort for an overnight stay. The following morning, the journey continues to Baia Lodge by road, boat or a combination of the two, taking approximately four and a half hours. Anglers generally arrive around lunchtime and begin fishing that afternoon. The return journey includes a final morning session at Baia, followed by the transfer back to Kimbe and another night at Liamo before flying home.

Rates Per Angler:
Starting from  AU$8,800.00 per person

What’s Included:

What’s Not Included:

Day 1: Arrive in West New Britain
Fly from Port Moresby to Hoskins Airport, where anglers are met and transferred to Liamo Reef Resort near Kimbe. Overnight at Liamo.

Day 2: Transfer to Baia Lodge
Travel from Kimbe to Baia Lodge by road, boat or a combination of both. Arrive around lunchtime, settle into the lodge and head out for an afternoon fishing session.

Days 3 to 6: Full days of fishing
Spend four full days fishing the rivers and estuaries around Baia for Papuan black bass, spottail bass and mangrove jack. Depending on weather and sea conditions, anglers may also have the opportunity to fish nearby reefs or offshore waters.

Day 7: Final fishing session and return to Kimbe
Enjoy a final morning session before departing Baia Lodge. Transfer back to Liamo Reef Resort for an overnight stay.

Day 8: Departure
Transfer from Liamo Reef Resort to Hoskins Airport for the flight to Port Moresby and onward travel.

When is the best time to fish at Baia Lodge?
The main fishing season generally runs from May to November, with the lodge closed during the wetter months. Conditions vary with rainfall, river levels and tides.

Do anglers need to bring fishing tackle?
Rods and reels can be provided, but anglers may prefer to bring their own heavy casting equipment. Fishing lures are not included and should be packed in sufficient quantity, as black bass fishing can be hard on tackle.

How many anglers fish from each boat?
The fishing boats generally carry two or three anglers, depending on the package booked and group arrangements.

Is there mobile phone or internet access?
Mobile coverage may be available in the area, but reception and data service should not be considered reliable. Anglers should be prepared to spend much of the trip with limited connectivity.

Is travel insurance required?
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance should include trip cancellation, medical treatment and emergency evacuation, as the lodge is in a remote area with limited access to medical facilities.

What should anglers pack for the trip?
Anglers should bring lightweight fishing clothing, rain protection, sun protection, insect repellent, suitable footwear, personal medication, fishing lures and a small waterproof bag. Soft-sided luggage is preferable for the boat and road transfers.