Have you ever dreamed of venturing into the heart of Africa and casting your line in some of the most pristine and untouched waters on the planet?
My name is Blaede Russell, a passionate fly fisherman who grew up amidst the wild landscapes of Kenya. My upbringing in the bush ignited my passion for the outdoors, and coupled with my obsession with fishing, it led me to pursue a career in the fishing industry after university. For over 8 years, I’ve been working as a guide and currently serve as the head guide for African Waters in two premier destinations and contributing to the management and conservation efforts in each location.
In 2007, visionaries Rob Scott and Keith Clover established a company that specializes in managing and developing fishing camps in the remote corners of Africa. African Waters was born out of the belief that the best fishing is found where the fewest people venture, and it has since become a pioneer in championing fishing and conservation efforts in regions that many wouldn’t dare to explore.
Conservation at the Core
One of the key principles of African Waters is ensuring that the development of fisheries benefits the local communities and preserves these areas for future generations. Without community support and a robust management plan, these operations would simply cease to exist. The money generated from filling out rods each week is directly reinvested into conservation efforts at each destination.
Tanzania: Protecting 14,000 Square Kilometres of Wilderness
In Tanzania, our fly fishing operations help protect a vast 14,000 square kilometre wilderness area, home not only to the legendary tiger fish but also to most of the Big Five. The threats to this region include deforestation in the headwaters, poaching of both mammals and fish, and the impacts of climate change. Our conservation efforts are crucial in maintaining the delicate balance of this ecosystem.
Cameroon: Sustaining the Faro River Basin
On the Faro River in Cameroon, we manage a 60-kilometre stretch where funds generated from our fishing season significantly contribute to the Faro River Basin conservation plan. This initiative, in collaboration with Dr. Koen Maes, Occidental Safaris, and African Waters, addresses threats such as illegal gold mining and poaching.
Empowering Local Communities
Our commitment to conservation extends to empowering local communities. In Lesotho, the Makhangoa Community Camp employs over 50 individuals from the local area, providing in-house training and skills development. The camp supports a River Ranger program, where the local community helps protect natural resources. African Waters has also funded school supplies, sustainable cooking programs, and logistical upgrades like footbridges and roads.
In Gabon, sport fishing tourism has created numerous direct jobs, supporting 15 local households as a sole source of income. Across all our destinations, we work closely with communities to employ local staff, ensuring that our operations benefit those who live there.
Unique Fishing Destinations
The fishing experiences we offer are unparalleled, with each location boasting unique species that are hard to find elsewhere in healthy populations. Here are some highlights:
Gabon: A Window into the Past
Gabon is one of the few places where you can still witness the pristine beauty of western tropical Africa as it once was. Imagine casting your line into a bait ball of hungry jacks or huge tarpon as the sun sets over the Atlantic, with elephants roaming the beaches behind you. Gabon is truly an Eden, a magical window into a time long gone.
Tanzania: The Ultimate Tiger Fishing Experience
In Tanzania, we operate in a concession that is home to most of the Big Five and offers some of the best tiger fishing on the planet. The unofficial world record for tiger fish was caught in our waters, and many others have come close. Where else can you fish for a 20lb tiger with elephants as your backdrop every week? Aside from the insane fishery which needs no introduction nor further comment, it’s the people for me! We have a team who are willing to just about to anything to make sure you leave with unforgettable memories.
Cameroon: The Last Stronghold of the Nile Perch
Cameroon is one of the last places on earth where you can target trophy Nile perch on fly and on foot. This intact fishery boasts a relatively healthy population of Nile perch, making it a must-visit destination for any serious angler. The sight fishing for three species of tiger fish and the Niger barb, often compared to permit, offers incredible variety. How many people have caught a bone fish, a salmon, a GT, permit the list can go on. Not many have caught a Nile perch and of the 100lb plus fish caught on fly on foot, to our knowledge all have been from our waters. Imagine casting a whole chicken to a 150lb fish in a river no wider than a full line away, with an audience of 50 hippos creating a symphony of sounds in total darkness. It’s truly an immersive experience.
Africa should be on your list; it’s a place where every cast is a step into a world of unparalleled adventure and experiences. Whether you’re fishing in the pristine waters of Tanzania, the untouched rivers of Cameroon, or the Eden-like coast of Gabon, each trip promises not only exceptional fishing but also a deep connection with nature and the communities that protect it.”
