Cameroon Nile Perch

Week 2 of the Gassa Camp season was slightly different. We were joined by only one guest for four nights – George Pearson, who resides in the UK. George had just completed a very successful hunt in a nearby concession and possessed the spirit of an avid outdoorsman – “if I’m travelling all the way to Cameroon, I’m going to have to catch some fish while I’m there”. We’re thrilled he did, especially in his pursuit of the Cameroon Nile Perch.

A Unique Guest Experience

As the sole guest at camp, George received the full attention of the guides’ team, which at times might have been a bit overwhelming given our constant banter. Despite our quirky conversations – with Blaede (who completed his education in the UK) and George exchanging remarks that left me and David, two South Africans, rather puzzled by the absence of familiar slang such as “bruh” or “braai” – he quickly integrated into the team as if he were one of the guides.

Chasing the Cameroon Nile Perch

The fishing this week was stellar. With only one client on board, we were free to explore all the hotspots along the beats in search of the elusive beasts lurking beneath the surface. George managed to land all three species of Tigerfish that the Faro has to offer. He was even fortunate – or perhaps unlucky – enough to witness a sizeable Niger Barb, moments away from being secured, get swallowed by a massive Nile Perch right before his eyes.

The Epic Battle for a Trophy Cameroon Nile Perch

The undeniable highlight of the week – and so far the season – came on George’s third night. Due to the timing of his hunting trip, he joined us during an unfavourable moon phase. The initial nights targeting perch were slower than expected, yet George remained undaunted, clearly relishing every moment under the African stars and the soothing sounds of the bush. On that memorable third night, we set up camp along the banks of the Faro river at a beat we call Marais du Croco (MDC). After sundowners and snacks, we ascended MDC with our 12wt intermediate line rigged with a chartreuse perch peanut fly. It wasn’t long before the action began in earnest. Amid heart-stopping moments and a relentless battle, George finally brought in an enormous Nile Perch – a trophy specimen measuring 138cm in length and 89cm in girth, with a tail alone spanning 28cm.

Final Reflections and Your Next Expedition

After capturing epic footage and photographs of George with his trophy catch, the impressive fish swam off into the darkness. We ended the night on the beach, gathering around the cooler box to crack open a couple of ice-cold beers and recount the extraordinary moments under the African night sky. A fish like that is truly the catch of a lifetime. Ready to create your own unforgettable fishing story? Contact us now to book your next trip and chase the thrill of the Cameroon Nile Perch!