Sport Fishing in Rwanda: Rwanda may not be the first destination that comes to mind for sport fishing, but this landlocked East African country offers surprisingly rewarding fishing experiences. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda covers over 26,338 square kilometers, with about 1,390 square kilometers made up of water. Several lakes and rivers spread across the country, creating ideal conditions for anglers seeking adventure on the water.
Where to Go Sport Fishing in Rwanda
Rwanda has several excellent fishing spots worth visiting. Lake Kivu stands out as the most popular. It is Africa’s sixth-largest Great Lake, shared between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The lake stretches 89 kilometers in length, 48 kilometers in width, and reaches a depth of 240 meters. Surrounding volcanoes and rolling hills frame the lake beautifully, making it a scenic destination beyond just fishing.
Akagera National Park also offers outstanding sport fishing. The park contains two premier fishing spots, Lake Ihema and Lake Shakani. Both lakes sit within Rwanda’s only savannah national park, which is also home to the African Big Five and over 525 bird species. Although crocodiles and hippos live in these waters, park authorities have carefully designated safe fishing zones away from these animals.
Additionally, the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo in Rwanda’s Northern Province provide a unique fishing experience. Located at 1,862 meters above sea level on the slopes of Mount Muhabura, these lakes offer traditional fishing methods alongside stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Anglers can also interact with local communities and learn about their way of life. Lake Muhazi, located just 40 minutes from Kigali, offers another calm and scenic option for those looking for a quick fishing getaway.
Other rivers such as the Akagera, Nyabarongo, Akanyaru, and Sebeya also support fishing activities throughout the country.
Types of Fish You Can Catch
Rwanda’s water bodies support a wide variety of fish species that make sport fishing exciting and rewarding.
The Nile Perch is the most prized catch. Some specimens weigh over 100 kilograms, making landing one a truly remarkable achievement. Lake Kivu and Lake Ihema are the best places to find this giant fish. The Tiger Fish comes in as another thrilling target. It fights hard, has razor-sharp teeth, and will test every angler’s skill on the line. Tilapia, on the other hand, is smaller and more commonly caught in Akagera using hooks. It is widely appreciated for its delicious taste. Catfish round out the list as bottom-dwelling fish that require different bait and techniques. They appear frequently in Lake Kivu and other freshwater bodies across Rwanda.
Best Time to Go Fishing
Sport fishing in Rwanda runs throughout the year. However, the dry months produce the best conditions. From December to February and June to September, rainfall is minimal, water levels drop slightly, skies clear up, and wind reduces significantly. These factors combine to create ideal conditions for fishing and smooth boat movement on the water.
Fishing Methods Used in Rwanda
Anglers use several methods during sport fishing safaris in Rwanda. Rod and line fishing remains the most common approach. Anglers use spinning rods, bait-casting rods, or fly rods equipped with worms, artificial lures, or live bait to catch large fish species effectively. Handline fishing takes a more traditional approach, where fishing is done primarily by hand without a rod. Local fishermen commonly use this method, and adventurous visitors often enjoy trying it too.
Fly fishing uses specialized rods and lightweight lures called flies to target larger fish. It requires skill but delivers highly satisfying results. Catch and release is another important practice, particularly in Lake Shakani. Anglers catch fish and then return them to the water, supporting conservation efforts and ensuring fish populations remain healthy for future visitors.
Permits and Costs
To participate in sport fishing in Rwanda, anglers must obtain a valid fishing permit. Tour operators sell these permits to anyone above the age of six years at $25 per person per day. The Rwanda Development Board regulates all sport fishing activity to protect fish populations and conserve the natural environment. Licensed guides are also available and are highly recommended, especially for first-time anglers. Most fishing trips provide equipment, including rods, reels, and bait, though experienced anglers may bring their own gear.
What to Pack
Preparing the right gear makes a big difference during a fishing safari. Useful items to bring include hiking boots, sandals, light pants and shirts, a breathable sun cap, sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, gloves, a flashlight, a camera, energy drinks, and enough drinking water for the day.
Where to Stay
Akagera National Park offers several comfortable accommodation options close to the fishing spots. These include Magashi Safari Camp, Ruzizi Tented Camp, Akagera Rhino Lodge, and Karenge Bush Camp, among others. Around Lake Kivu, visitors can choose from Kivu Lodge, Cormoran Lodge, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, and Inzu Lodge, among several others.
Other Activities to Combine With Fishing
Rwanda offers much more beyond sport fishing. Visitors can combine their fishing safari with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, which remains one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences in the world. Golden monkey trekking, chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, and birdwatching in Rugezi Marsh also provide memorable encounters with Rwanda’s rich wildlife. Game drives in Akagera at sunrise or sunset offer spectacular views of the savannah and its animals. A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial provides important historical and cultural context for understanding modern Rwanda.
In summary, Akagera National Park stands as Rwanda’s top sport fishing destination, with Lakes Ihema and Shakani drawing the most visitors. Combined with stunning scenery, rich wildlife, and warm local culture, sport fishing in Rwanda promises an experience worth adding to any travel bucket list.
