Lucy Mantle’s trip report on City Flickers recent visit to Pongola, South Africa

Lucy Mantle’s trip report on City Flickers recent visit to Pongola, South Africa for tiger fish, arranged by Frontiers. 

I was lucky enough to host a City Flickers trip to Pongola, South Africa in mid-August. To say it blew all expectations out the water would be an understatement. 

Eight of us flew from Heathrow to Johannesburg and on landing were met by the most charming transfer host, Jarek, who was going to drive us to the lodge that was to be our base while fishing. The drive to Nkwazi Lodge may sound long but with the ongoing excitement, new surroundings and a chatty Jarek before we knew it we were sipping a beer on the lodge veranda overlooking the fishy waters and wildlife rich landscape. 

Having never fished in Africa before and being less than expert at casting heavy flies on single-handed rods, I was initially worried about my ability. However, all doubts were dispelled when we encountered almost instant action: after just four casts during the ‘golden hour’ (sunrise & sunset where tiger fish seem to be at their hungriest) I’d had a bump and two casts later I managed to land my first “tiglet” (a 1.5 lb tiger fish). It was exhilarating. You are constantly coming into contact with fish – some just tiglets, but some monsters. As the week progressed, so did our casting, which led to one red letter morning where we landed multiple big fish, including five over 7lbs. The big fish fight hard and fast, jumping and using all the tricks to throw the hook.

Fishing aside, you can’t help but relish the magical surroundings. We encountered all sorts of wildlife including giraffes, white rhinos and hippos. You could be casting a line and then suddenly see a herd of impalas drinking along the lake shore. Pongola is majestic and the atmosphere is straight out of the Lion King. The lodge is also fabulous, the staff are unbelievably welcoming and the bar prices joyfully low, although your eyes water when you head back to London! Most of all for us, it was the guides that made the trip; their knowledge and enthusiasm constantly lifted our spirits and they made sure our drinks were always filled. I can safely say that our trip was unforgettable due to them. We can’t wait to get back out there in 2024 - and hopefully every year after that!

If you are interested in this trip please contact Roddy to learn more.