Murchison Falls Tented Camp

Fishing at Murchison Falls is centred on nile perch, Africa’s largest freshwater fish capable of exceeding 100 pounds. The main fishing area lies below Murchison Falls, where the force of the river creates deep channels, rocky edges, turbulent pools, current seams and slower backwaters. Anglers may fish from boats or selected bank positions, with guides choosing the approach according to river levels, current and the locations holding fish.

Live bait is often the most reliable method for larger nile perch, particularly in deeper water and around structure. Spinning with lipped lures and soft plastics can produce aggressive takes when fish are actively hunting, while fly fishing can be arranged for anglers prepared to use heavy tackle. Tigerfish and several catfish species may also be encountered, although nile perch remain the clear focus of the program. Fishing operates on a catch-and-release basis.

The strongest fishing is generally found during Uganda’s two drier periods, from December through March and again from June through September. River levels tend to be more stable during these months, making it easier to work the deeper pools and current lines below the falls. Fishing is possible outside these periods, but heavy rainfall and changing water levels can affect clarity, access and the methods used.

Murchison Falls Tented Camp offers spacious safari tents with private ensuite bathrooms and balconies overlooking the river and surrounding wilderness. Rooms can be arranged with double or twin beds, while single occupancy is also available. The tents provide a comfortable place to rest after fishing while retaining the open atmosphere of a small riverside safari camp.

Shared facilities include a restaurant, dining area and spaces for relaxing with views across the Nile. Wi-Fi and laundry service are available, although connectivity may be less consistent than in a city hotel.

Meals combine Ugandan ingredients with familiar international dishes. Full-board arrangements include breakfast, lunch and dinner, with picnic lunches provided during longer fishing days. A bar serves beer, wine, cocktails and other drinks, with beverage inclusions depending on the package booked.

Murchison Falls Tented Camp is located beside the Victoria Nile inside Murchison Falls National Park in northwestern Uganda. The camp lies close to Murchison and Uhuru Falls, with fishing water accessible within a short journey from the lodge.

International anglers normally fly into Entebbe International Airport. From Entebbe, the quickest route is a scheduled or charter flight of approximately one hour to Pakuba or Bugungu Airstrip. Anglers are then met for the connecting road and boat transfer to camp.

The park can also be reached by road from Entebbe or Kampala. Driving time is approximately five to six hours, depending on traffic, road conditions and the route used. Road transfers are generally used for smaller groups when a private charter is not practical.

Rates Per Angler:
Starting from  $3,990 per person

What’s Included:

What’s Not Included:

Day 1: Arrival at Murchison Falls Tented Camp
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and take the approximately one-hour flight to Pakuba or Bugungu Airstrip. Continue by lodge transfer to the camp, check into the tent and meet the fishing team before dinner beside the Nile.

Days 2 and 3: Full Fishing Days
After breakfast, depart with the guides for full days of nile perch fishing below Murchison Falls. Fishing may involve live bait, lure casting or fly fishing from boats and selected bank positions. 

Day 4: Fishing and Safari
Spend the day fishing or divide the schedule between the river and the included game drive. A split day may include an early wildlife drive across the national park followed by an afternoon fishing session on the Nile.

Days 5 and 6: Full Fishing Days
Return to the nile perch water for two further guided fishing days. Guides adjust the fishing locations and methods according to river conditions, recent activity and the priorities of the anglers.

Day 7: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for the return flight to Entebbe. Anglers can connect with their international departure or continue with a wider Ugandan itinerary.

The order of fishing and safari activities may change according to weather, river conditions, flight schedules and wildlife movements.

What level of fishing experience is required?
Murchison Falls can accommodate both experienced anglers and those targeting nile perch for the first time. Guides manage navigation, tackle setup, bait presentation and fish handling. The fishing can be physically demanding when a large fish is hooked, but previous specialist experience is not essential.

What is the best time to fish for nile perch?
The main periods are December through March and June through September. These months normally provide lower and more stable river conditions, although fishing results still depend on water levels, weather and fish movement.

What fishing methods are used?
Live bait is commonly used for larger nile perch, particularly around deep pools and heavy current. Anglers can also cast large lures and soft plastics. Fly fishing is available for anglers using suitably heavy rods, reels and lines.

Is fishing equipment included?
The seven-day fishing package includes boats, fuel, tackle and fishing equipment. 

Is all fishing catch and release?
Yes. The current sport-fishing program operates on a catch-and-release basis. Guides assist with landing, photography and returning fish to the river safely.

Can anglers fish from the bank?
Yes. Selected areas below the falls can be fished from the bank, while boats provide access to deeper pools and quieter sections farther downstream. Bank access is controlled by the guides because the river contains strong current, crocodiles and hippos. Anglers should never approach the water independently.

What wildlife might anglers see while fishing?
The Nile supports abundant wildlife, and anglers may see elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, antelope and a wide range of birds from the boat. A guided game drive is also included in the standard fishing package.

Is the camp in a malaria area?
Yes. Anglers should speak with a qualified medical professional about malaria prevention, vaccinations and other health precautions before travelling. Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is strongly recommended.