The Nile Perch is a highly sought after freshwater fish by anglers from all around the world. One of the largest freshwater fish in the world, mature Nile Perch can grow in excess of six feet in legnth and weigh in excess of 4oo pounds. In addition to their size, they are a top predator that dominate all habitats they are introduced into.

A native of the Nile, Congo, and Niger river basins (among others), an important food fish, the species was introduced into Lake Victoria in the 1950’s and other lakes (including the Lake Tanganyka and the artificial Lake Nasser) in subsequent years, from which it has been commercially fished. In addition to its value for commercial fishing, its size and ferocity make it a natural trophy fish for sport anglers. As a result, Nile Perch fishing has become an additional source of income for many of the regions where the Nile Perch has been introduced.

As a predator, the Nile Perch feeds on other fish (including perch), crustaceans and insects, but what makes it so attractive to the sport fishing industry is that it is also attracted to the artificial lures of sport anglers. Anglers from around the world travel to these African lakes for a chance to hook one of these freshwater giants. Of course it’s not always practical to bring your own boat and Lowrance depth finder since many sportfishing tourism companies will provide all the essential equipment you will need. All you need to supply is the enthusiasm and a little bit of muscle.

Not everyone however, was thrilled about the introduction of such an invasivev species into these freshwater ecosystems. The documentary Darmin’s Nightmare, chronicles the introduction of the Nile Perch and the resultant extinction (or near extinction) of several hundred species of native fish and the deforestation of the surrounding lands (perch need to be smoked in order to be properly preserved, creating an increased demand for firewood). Although the long term ecological and economic impact has yet to be determined, there is no doubt that the Nile Perch fishing has become an anglers dream.

If you’d like to follow the adventures of a fellow angler, Nile Perch – The Ultimate Guide for Anglers, is for you. Loaded with information, you’ll learn where to fish for Nile Perch, and how to get there., with special focus on Lake Nasser. You’l learn all about different bait, lure and fly fishing techniques, bank fishing, boat fishing, and how to play and land the fish. If you’re planning, or even thinking about planning a trip to fish for these freshwater giants, this book is a must read for you.

While you’re thinking about it, check out this short clip of the one that didn’t get away – it could be yours…