Fly Fishing in Cameroon

This week we were joined by our old friend, Alisdair Grassie, back at camp for a second go at the Faro. He brought along his girlfriend, Josephine—affectionately known as Jo Jo. They were joined by two Zimbos, Hamish Rudland and Gorgon Brown (who soon earned the nickname “Gombeza”), both keen to see what fly fishing in Cameroon is really about.

After a ten-day gap between groups, filled with a fair bit of *kak-praat* and a lonely Valentine’s Day, the guide team was beyond excited to welcome new guests and get back on the water.

A Camp Full of Character

This group turned what could have been an ordinary week into something unforgettable. It’s always a relief when guests who’ve never met get along, but this bunch exceeded expectations. The laughs, the shared stories, the way everyone clicked—it made guiding feel more like hanging out with old friends.

The Fishing That Followed

The week kicked off with a bang. The Tigers were ready to play, and Jo Jo was quick to land a couple of Niger Barbs, sparking a full-blown addiction. Her energy was infectious, and soon the entire team was chasing the same golden prize. Mornings were productive, with regular hookups on Barbs and Tigers. One day, Hamish and Gombeza ran into a school of around 100 small perch and landed 13 between them.

New Species, Big Surprises

Two new species made an appearance this week. Hamish landed a catfish from the Bagrid family—an exciting first for the Faro. But it was Alisdair who had jaws dropping when he accidentally hooked a metre-and-a-half-long West African Nile Crocodile on a brush fly. It broke the surface like a prehistoric missile before shaking itself free at the bank—leaving the camp with one hell of a story and no missing fingers.

The Perch of a Lifetime

Perch fishing isn’t always about the numbers—it’s about moments. One night, while soaking in the sounds of the bush, Hamish’s line went tight and started screaming downstream. David was convinced it was a foul-hooked hippo, but Hamish stuck to his guns. After a rocky 100-metre chase, they finally saw the back of a massive perch. When David clamped his hands around its jaw, it measured 124cm—Hamish’s first ever Nile Perch on fly, landed on foot. Unbelievable.

Ready to Plan Your Own Faro Experience?

If you’re dreaming about fly fishing in Cameroon—chasing tigerfish, Niger barbs, and monster Nile perch on foot in wild, untouched surroundings—now’s the time. Get in touch to book your spot at Gassa Camp and experience the Faro River for yourself. Adventure, fish, and friendships await.