Dhala & Samaki Camps - Tigerfish

There are many locations in Africa suitable for targeting the notoriously fierce tigerfish, but for the adventuresome fly angler, nothing compares to the wilds of south-central Tanzania. Here, fly anglers will find the some of the largest tigerfish in the world (some of which fall in the 20- to 30-pound class) in small, structure-rich waters while surrounded by a remarkable array of African wildlife, including buffalo, lion, elephant, and crocodile. Guests will fish from narrow, motorized 16-foot aluminum boats under the watchful eye of skilled South African guides. Each craft will also have a dedicated local boatman. In addition to tigerfish, which many experienced fly fishers consider to be the hardest hitting fish in freshwater, anglers might also encounter large yellowfish and catfish as well as a host of more obscure species.

Guests will enjoy cozy safari-style accommodations at both the Dhala Basecamp on the Mnyera River and at the Samaki Camp on the Ruhudji River. These camps, built on elevated wooden platforms, offer attached baths, great views, and excellent meals. Smaller mobile camping options are also available for the adventuresome. For those wanting to fully experience the African wilderness and fish for the biggest tigerfish in the world, this is truly the trip of a lifetime.

Anglers will have access to the ultra-productive waters of the Mnyera and Ruhudji rivers. With upwards of 120 kilometers of productive water, guests never have to fish the same beat twice. The majority of the fishing is done while drifting from narrow aluminum boats but at times inflatable drift boats may be employed. Guests will fish two per guide, and the guides are bilingual and typically South African. Most fishing will entail throwing large streamers on stout wire leaders to a wide range of structure. Anglers will have the chance to fish for trophy tigerfish, yellowfish, catfish, bream, and gundo.

This program is comprised of two camps – the main Dhala basecamp and the Samaki out-camp. Dhala Camp, the base for fishing the Mnyera River, has four wooden fishing cabins and a central thatched mess/lounge area. Each cabin has a view overlooking the river and attached bathrooms. Meals are served in the central thatched lounge area overlooking the river. This area has a small library, sitting area, and electrical outlets for charging cameras and laptops, as well as a comprehensive fly-tying station.

Samaki Camp is a rustic bush camp located on the banks of the Ruhudji River. Samaki Camp has traditional Safari tents, all with attached bathrooms. The lounge and dining area are situated in the shade of the riverside forest, although most meals are enjoyed outdoors, under the stars on a beautiful sandbank in front of the camp.

All meals are prepared by chefs in very basic kitchens and cooked with wood-fired grills and ovens. Dinners include fresh produce and local wild game. Breakfasts are continental-style and lunches are served streamside.

Day 1: Arrive Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and overnight at elected accommodations (independently arranged, not included).

Day 2: Charter from Dar es Salaam to camp.

Day 3 – 8: Six full days of fishing

Day 9: Morning charter flight back to Dar es Salaam. Depart for home or overnight in Dar es Salaam.

2025 Rate: Per person based on double occupancy

• 7 night/6 day package: $11,995

2026 Rate: Per person based on double occupancy

• 7 night/6 day package: $12,950

Included: Meet and greet at Dar es Salaam Airport, round trip transfers to airports and hotel, round trip charter flight, meals, accommodations, and all drinks when in camp, fishing licenses and concession fees, Tanzania Government Conservation Levy (per person per day)

Not Included: Round-trip airfare to Dar es Salaam, Visas (per person, obtained at arrival), accommodations, meals and drinks in Dar es Salaam, gratuities for guides and staff

Species: Tigerfish, yellowfish

Season: August - November

Capacity: 8 anglers