Orange River Trips

There’s a unique buzz that comes with the first drift of the season. After months of prep—checking gear, tying flies, and scouting river sections—our team and guests were finally ready to launch into the waters of the mighty Orange River. Early-season conditions greeted us with high, cold water, which can make the fishing challenging, but it also brings the excitement of knowing that big largies often make their first appearance now.

Our guests approached the river with determination. Over the first couple of days, they worked the structure methodically, experimenting with different tactics in search of the elusive largemouth yellowfish. While many of the early catches were smaller, their persistence paid off in the form of memorable takes and steady action.

Beyond the Fishing

Day two offered something special. In the afternoon, we hiked a nearby koppie overlooking the valley. As the sun dipped towards the horizon, we settled in for sundowners, watching the river wind through the desert below—a lifeline in an otherwise harsh landscape. It’s moments like these that remind you that Orange River Trips are about far more than just fishing.

As the week progressed, the river dropped slightly and warmed up—ideal for some serious nymphing. By day four, rods bent more often, with smallmouth yellowfish taking flies eagerly. That evening, the river came alive: mudfish in full spawning mode and barbel feeding aggressively among them in the shallows.

Life on the River

Off the water, the rhythm of the week took hold. Icy mornings began by the fire with hot coffee in hand, and nights unfolded under a sky heavy with stars. Between drifts, hearty meals brought everyone together, building a sense of camaraderie that only time on the river can create.

The first week of the season reaffirmed what makes guiding and fishing on the Orange River so rewarding. It’s the blend of challenge and calm, adventure and connection. Each drift offers something new—another cast, another story, another reason to come back.

If you’ve ever thought about joining one of our Orange River Trips, now’s the time to start planning your own drift down this unforgettable stretch of wilderness.