Tigerfish Tanzania

Tigerfish Tanzania: The second week kicked off with a small, lively group of three anglers — a relaxed start to what promises to be a strong year in the valley. Among them was Chantel Chone, better known in camp as the “crazy grandma.” While unpacking, she realised one of her 9wt rods had somehow transformed into a 6wt. Most anglers might have been frustrated, but Chantel wasn’t fazed in the slightest.

Armed with her 6wt and a Harley Shake, she turned what could have been a hiccup into the highlight of the week. Her topwater sessions on the Ruhudji were explosive, with tigerfish queuing up to eat. Watching those fish detonate on a surface fly never loses its appeal — it’s fast, aggressive, and raw.

The Rivers Back in Rhythm

After two seasons of high, cold water, both the Ruhudji and Mnyera Rivers have settled back to their normal levels. The systems are healthy, the clarity is excellent, and the tigerfish are in superb condition — thick, powerful, and feeding hard. Everything feels balanced again: baitfish are active, birds are working the runs, and the rivers look alive from top to bottom.

The Mnyera in particular is showing great early-season promise. With levels dropping and structure reappearing, it’s classic tigerfish water — deep runs, defined banks, and plenty of ambush points. The guides are optimistic that this will be one of the strongest starts to a season in years.

Sundowners at the Pan

To close out opening week, the crew gathered for sundowners at the pan — a timeless African Waters ritual. As the sky turned gold and a small herd of elephants wandered in to drink, the team raised a glass to the start of what’s already shaping up to be a memorable season.

Fat fish, healthy rivers, and the return of rhythm — Tigerfish Tanzania is officially back.

Click here if you would like to experience this amazing fishery!