Dhala and Samaki Camps

African Waters comprises a team of dedicated fishing travel experts and professional guides, specializing in crafting and overseeing boutique fishing camps in Africa’s pristine wilderness areas. Their commitment to sound fishery management, community projects, and rigorous conservation practices ensures that every guest’s visit contributes to the long-term protection of these wild places and the upliftment of rural communities they collaborate with.

In the last 10 years, the fisheries of the Mnyera and Ruhudji River in Southwestern Tanzania have solidified their status as a premier freshwater destination for discerning anglers. Renowned for trophy tiger fish, these rivers offer unparalleled fly fishing opportunities, establishing them as the go-to destination for targeting tiger fish in the 10 – 25lb range.

Species

Trophy Tigerfish

Season

August to November

Accommodations

Wooden fishing bungalows and tented camps on the river banks

Perfect For

Small adventurous groups

Fly Fishing

The primary fishing method involves drifting, focusing on river structures like fallen timber, long sand banks, steep drop-offs, and rocky outcrops. The guides employ sand anchors and tie up mid-stream when needed, honing in on specific stretches of water. All fishing occurs from 18ft aluminum boats, chosen for their suitability on the Mnyera and Ruhudji Rivers, each equipped with 15 – 25 hp motors. These boats accommodate two anglers, a professional guide, and a coxswain, featuring ample storage and seating for three. Safety is a priority with first aid equipment on board.

With minimal historical fishing pressure, the rivers maintain their pristine state. The rich aquatic ecosystem, abundant in red-finned barbs, contributes to the tiger fish achieving extraordinary sizes, with trophies measuring above 15lbs.

TRAVEL PLAN

Tanzania is accessible via several major international carriers, with Dar es Salaam International Airport (DAR) serving as the primary gateway. Direct flights are available from cities such as London, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Johannesburg, and others. Travelers from the U.S. typically connect through London, Paris, or Amsterdam before continuing on to Dar es Salaam. These international legs usually take between 8 to 10 hours. Most guests spend at least one night in Dar es Salaam before departing on a private charter flight to camp. We are happy to assist you with every aspect of your travel planning and trip logistics.

LODGING

Dhala Camp serves as the central hub for anglers along the Mnyera River, featuring six ensuite safari tents, a spacious dining and lounge tent, an outdoor fireplace, and dining area. All accommodations and communal spaces offer breathtaking views of the Mnyera River, providing a unique experience where the sounds of leopards lull you to sleep, and mornings bring the spectacle of feeding tiger fish. Meals are savored in the main camp area under canvas, complete with a small library, lounges, a bar, electric points for device charging, and a well-equipped fly tying station.

Serving as your outpost along the Ruhudji River, this rustic bush camp, a smaller counterpart to Dhalla Camp, is erected seasonally. Nestled on the riverbanks, Samaki Camp offers access to the productive waters. The camp features traditional Safari tents, each with en suite facilities and twin or double configurations. The mess area is nestled in the shade of the riverside forest, but meals are typically enjoyed outdoors, beneath the stars on a picturesque sandbank in front of the camp. It’s important to note that Samaki Camp operates without electricity.