African Waters: Fishing in Africa

For fishing enthusiasts and eco-travelers, few experiences compare to the adventures offered by African Waters, a premier fishing and ecotourism company that has revolutionized guided fishing experiences on the African continent. Co-founded by Keith Clover and Rob Scott in 2008, African Waters brilliantly combines passion for African wilderness with sustainable tourism, setting an inspiring benchmark in the field.

A Unique Genesis: How It All Began

Keith Clover and Rob Scott are two people who love nature and science. After finishing their studies at the University of Natal, they saw that Africa did not have many good guided fishing tours. So, they started African Waters to give people special fly fishing trips that also care for the environment and connect with local cultures.

What makes African Waters different is their way of mixing fly fishing in Africa with caring for nature and local people. Their goal is simple — to give fun fishing trips while protecting fish and working closely with local communities.

Why Choose African Waters?

African Waters isn’t just about fishing—it’s about creating transformative wilderness experiences. Here’s why they stand out:

• Personalized Experiences: Hosting a maximum of eight guests per lodge ensures intimate, guided expeditions tailored to individual needs.
• Exclusive Lodges: Guests stay in comfortable accommodations integrated seamlessly with their wild surroundings.
• Community and Conservation Focus: By embracing a high-value, low-impact tourism model, African Waters directly supports conservation and local economies.

Keith Clover believes in fostering a strong fishing industry across Africa, stating, “Healthy competition benefits the local fisheries and ensures responsible tourism practices.”

The Top African Fishing Destinations

Discover unparalleled fishing spots handpicked by African Waters, each offering its own distinct charm:

1. Orange River (Namibia/Kalahari): Rugged multi-night wilderness trips.
2. Makhangoa Community Camp (Lesotho): Perfect for year-round fly fishing.
3. Dhala and Samaki Camps (Tanzania): Explore rivers in a 14,000 km² game reserve.
4. Sette Cama (Gabon): Nestled within the otherworldly Loango National Park, combining fishing and turtle research.
5. Gassa Camp (Cameroon): Seasonal experiences from January to April near Faro National Park.

While operations in Sudan’s Nubian Flats have been paused due to conflict, hopes are high to revive fishing expeditions there by 2025 or 2026.

Driving Conservation and Community Prosperity

African Waters operates on a principle that eco-tourism can protect vulnerable habitats while uplifting local communities. Through their innovative tourism model:

• Lesotho Initiatives: Bed levies fund vital projects like solar lighting for households and bridges for local schools.
• Gabon Projects: Employing locals for 70% of the Sette Cama workforce fosters economic growth.
• Turtle Research and Anti-Poaching: Guests contribute directly to conservation by supporting programs like turtle observation studies and anti-poaching patrols.

Fishing in Africa is not merely about the thrill of the catch—it’s about safeguarding ecosystems while creating impactful legacies in remote regions.

Elevated Accommodation for Adventurers

While African Waters emphasizes connecting guests with the wild, they don’t compromise on comfort. Guests can expect:

• In Gabon: Air-conditioned, en-suite chalets.
• In Tanzania: Cozy safari tents with private bathrooms.
• In Lesotho: Unique rondavels complete with clawfoot tubs and fireplaces.

Every detail is designed to seamlessly blend comfort and authenticity—a hallmark of African Waters’ ethos.

Future of African Fishing Tourism

The resurgence of travel demand post-pandemic is ripe for bespoke fishing experiences in Africa. According to Clover, travelers increasingly seek intimate and enriching adventures like fishing along the Nile or exploring Tanzania’s serene rivers. African Waters is poised to lead this transformative trend, offering a perfect blend of ecotourism and sustainable luxury.

Memorable Stories and The Elusive Goliath Tigerfish

One of Keith Clover’s most adventurous moments involved navigating Congo’s Odzala National Park in a dugout canoe alongside pygmy trackers in search of the elusive Goliath tigerfish. Although Keith admits he hasn’t caught one yet, his co-founder Rob Scott has succeeded—twice. This pursuit of rare fish symbolizes the heart of African Waters’ spirit: relentless adventure mixed with a love for Africa’s untamed beauty.

Plan Your African Fishing Experience Today

Ready to embark on an unforgettable fishing journey? Whether it’s tackling the mighty rivers of Tanzania, casting lines in Gabon, or immersing yourself in Lesotho’s serene fishing lodges, African Waters has something extraordinary for everyone.

For more deals and information, visit Wild Sunsets Travel or email Rael at rael@wildsunsets.travel.