Fishing Excursion - Chobe River

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Exploring the Chobe River Fishing Excursion: A Practical Guide

If you’re looking to combine a love of fishing with a taste of Botswana’s stunning natural scenery, the Fishing Excursion on the Chobe River offers a compelling option. Offered by Zambezi Tours & Safaris, this 3-hour adventure promises not only the chance to reel in tigerfish but also the opportunity to soak in breathtaking river vistas and spot wildlife along the banks. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a curious beginner, this trip is designed to be accessible and enjoyable.

What makes this experience stand out? Firstly, the scenic boat ride sets a peaceful tone, with views that make it easy to forget you’re actually working on catching fish. Secondly, guided expertise ensures you’re in good hands, regardless of your skill level. Thirdly, the included fishing equipment and refreshments add convenience, making it a seamless, enjoyable outing. One potential consideration is that the transfer to the jetty isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation. This trip is ideal for those craving a relaxed, authentic day on the water in a breathtaking setting.

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Key Points

Accessible for all skill levels — beginner-friendly with expert guidance.
Beautiful river scenery and wildlife sightings enrich the experience.
Includes fishing gear and beverages, simplifying the outing.
Duration of 3 hours offers a manageable, yet satisfying adventure.
Price of $220 per group provides good value for a private, guided experience.
Not including transfer means you’ll need to plan your own transportation to the jetty.

Looking for more options in Botswana? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

What to Expect from the Chobe River Fishing Tour

This 3-hour fishing trip is operated by Zambezi Tours & Safaris and features a combination of scenic cruising and fishing. It starts at their booking office in Kasane, right opposite PEP Stores in Hunters Mall, along the passage to Clicks. The process is straightforward: after meeting your guide, you’ll board a boat for a scenic ride to the fishing spot, where the real fun begins.

The Scenic Boat Ride

The experience kicks off with a relaxing boat ride along the Chobe River. This is where you’ll get your first glimpses of the river’s natural beauty—wide, calm stretches flanked by lush banks teeming with wildlife. Guides, who speak English, will point out animals like elephants, hippos, and maybe even crocodiles basking on the banks or swimming nearby. Guests have noted how “the views are truly stunning,” making the journey as memorable as the fishing itself.

The Fishing Experience

Once at the designated fishing area, your guide introduces you to the fishing equipment. This kit is included in the cost, so no need to bring your own gear unless you have specific preferences. The main target is tigerfish, a prized catch known for its fighting spirit and striking appearance. Whether you’re new to fishing or a seasoned angler, the guides are skilled at helping everyone enjoy the moment, offering tips and encouragement.

Guests report that “the guides are very professional and friendly,” making the session both educational and fun. The fishing is generally good for various skill levels, and even if you don’t reel in a record-breaking fish, the thrill of trying and the surrounding scenery make it worthwhile. The guide’s local expertise means they’re familiar with the best spots, which increases your chances of success.

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Wildlife and Scenery

Throughout the trip, you’ll have the chance to observe wildlife from the boat. Multiple reviews mention sightings of elephants, buffalo, and hippos along the riverbanks—an authentic African experience without leaving the boat. The stunning views of the river, especially during early morning or late afternoon, make this trip a photographer’s dream.

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Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $220 for a group of up to three people, this experience hits a good balance between cost and quality. The price covers professional guides, fishing gear, refreshments, and the scenic boat ride, making it a convenient package. Travelers often remark on the value for money, especially considering the personalized nature of the trip—it’s not a crowded tour but a tailored experience.

Compared to longer safaris or costly full-day tours, this shorter outing allows you to enjoy a relaxing yet engaging activity without a significant time investment. Plus, the flexible booking terms—you can reserve now and pay later—make planning easier, especially if you’re managing several activities in Botswana.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

The Meeting Point and Logistics

Start at the Zambezi Tours & Safaris Booking Office, conveniently located in Kasane. The journey there is straightforward, but note that transfer to the jetty isn’t included, so plan your transportation accordingly. Many guests choose to stay in Kasane or nearby, where taxis or hotel shuttles are available.

The Duration and Group Size

The 3-hour duration is perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary. It’s long enough to enjoy the scenery, attempt fishing, and perhaps get a few good catches, but short enough to avoid fatigue. The trip accommodates groups of up to three, fostering a more intimate experience, which is often appreciated by travelers seeking a personal touch.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are guides, fishing equipment, bottled water, and a scenic boat ride. It’s worth noting that transfers to the meeting point are not included, so you’ll need to organize your transportation to Kasane. The full refund policy allows cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

The Guides and Their Role

Guests consistently praise the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. They are not only experts in fishing but also in wildlife spotting, adding an educational layer to the trip. Their local knowledge enriches the experience, helping you understand the river’s ecology and history.

Authentic Aspects and Tips from Reviewers

Many reviewers highlight the stunning scenery as the highlight, with one noting, “the views are breathtaking, and the wildlife sightings added a special touch.” Others appreciated the informative guidance that made fishing accessible, stating, “I was a complete beginner, but the guide’s tips made it easy and fun.” Several mentioned how relaxing the boat ride was, with some describing it as “a peaceful escape from the hustle of daily life.”

A few practical tips shared by travelers include arriving early to catch the early light and wildlife activity, wearing sun protection, and bringing a sense of adventure — even if you don’t catch fish, the overall experience is rewarding.

Who Will Love This Tour

This trip is perfect for travelers seeking a low-stress, nature-focused activity. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who want a taste of Botswana’s wildlife and waterways without committing to longer safaris. It’s also a good fit for beginners or casual anglers who want to try fishing in a stunning setting with guidance.

It’s not designed for those looking for an intense fishing expedition or a full-day adventure, but if you want a peaceful, scenic experience with sport fishing thrown in, this is a great choice.

Final Thoughts

The Chobe River Fishing Excursion from Zambezi Tours & Safaris offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, scenic beauty, and fishing. Its accessible nature makes it suitable for a variety of travelers, and the inclusion of guides and gear ensures a smooth, enjoyable outing. The stunning river vistas and wildlife sightings make it much more than just a fishing trip—they turn into a mini safari on water.

While the cost might seem high for a short trip, the value gained from expert guidance, beautiful scenery, and memorable wildlife encounters justifies the price. Whether you’re an angler eager to catch tigerfish or a nature lover looking for peaceful river views, this tour is a small but meaningful highlight in Botswana’s rich landscape.

FAQs

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transfer to the Zambezi Tours & Safaris booking office in Kasane is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

How long does the trip last?
The excursion lasts approximately 3 hours, making it perfect for fitting into a busy travel schedule.

Can beginners participate in this fishing trip?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced and friendly, making it suitable for all skill levels, including those new to fishing.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers a professional guide, fishing equipment, bottled water, and a scenic boat ride along the Chobe River.

What fish can I expect to catch?
The main target is tigerfish, known for its lively fight and striking appearance, but other fish species may also be available.

Is cancellation flexible?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing you with peace of mind if your plans change.

This trip offers a relaxed, scenic encounter with Botswana’s abundant wildlife and beautiful river landscapes—making it a worthwhile addition to any safari or travel itinerary in the region.