Lagoon Fishing

David Taylor, one of our long-standing guides who has worked across all the African Waters camps, is now into his first full season in Gabon after a short familiarisation stint last year. He shares a rare windless morning exploring the upper lagoon fishing, a part of the fishery that powerboats struggle to access. With its maze of small islands and towering forest dropping straight to the water’s edge, it feels like a place locked in time.

Wildlife at every turn

As the kayaks moved silently across the lagoon, chimps swung through the distant treetops. Moments later, a moustached guenon monkey appeared in the canopy right on the water’s edge. After a quick coffee on the canoes and some time scanning with binoculars, the sense of wild Africa was already complete—before a line had even touched the water.

Snapper on topwater

Switching gears, the light spinning rods came out. Topwater lures were worked along rocky points and fallen timber, and the brown snappers responded in explosive fashion. The takes were violent enough to shatter the morning stillness, turning a calm paddle into a heart-racing fishing session.

Why the lagoon fishing stands out

For David, it was one of the most rewarding mornings since starting his season in Gabon—wildlife encounters, untouched forest, and aggressive snapper, all rolled into a single outing. The lagoon reminds us why Gabon lagoon fishing is so unique: it’s not just about the catch, but the wild setting that makes every moment memorable.

If you’d like to experience the mix of wildlife, adventure, and fishing that makes Gabon’s lagoons so unique, get in touch with us today to start planning your trip.