ABOUT THE FISH & THE SPECIES : The fish-the Mahseer- found only in the Indian sub-continent is reputed as  being the strongest fresh water sport fish in the world. It has been compared most favorably  with Salmon fishing.

THE SPECIES : The Mahseer is also the world's largest member of the carp family. The Himalayan Mahseer (Barbus tor pututora), the ones found on the rivers we raft can be as big as a 100lbs and 5ft long, though uncommon. Typically 40lbs is a record catch. The Himalayan variety  are leaner and meaner than their southern cousins (though on average the southerners are bigger) and put up a stronger fight perhaps owing to the more powerful currents of the Himalayan rivers. A migratory  fish,  the Mahseer travel upriver up to 2000mtrs also to spawn in the smaller tributaries, twice in the year. It is on the return from the breeding grounds when the fish are ravenous taking to your lures immediately and when the big ones are landed.

BEST TIME OF YEAR FOR ANGLING : It is this 'window' (March - April, October - November) which determine our fishing expedition departures. The Mahseer are splendid fighters and it is not uncommon to play the fish for several hours before landing them (quite often its the fish that play you!).

THE GEAR : Assorted spoons, spinners, warblers and plugs are standard and strong tackle and hooks are essential. There have been many instances of hooks being bent out of shape. The Mahseer are omnivores but their favourite bait and food is the chilwa (minnow). It's when the shoals of chilwa are on the run, Mahseer fishing is at its best. Our fishing guides catch these chilwa and use them as live or dead bait occasionally.

FISHING GUIDES : During our trips, we employ an English speaking fishing guide with intimate knowledge and passion for the Mahseer. He is assisted by a local guide  and they  advise you on all aspects of the fishing - the runs, time, technique and tackle. We practice catch-and-release as a form of conservation for these fish.

RIVER STAFF : Experienced river guides with intimate knowledge of the river get you downstream on our rafts safely. In addition cooks and helpers ensure your comfortable stay in the camps while you focus on the fishing.

ABOUT THE TRIP : Our trip on the river uses rafts with expert guides, gets you to the more inaccessible waters where the Mahseer are to be found. The river we raft  is the Ganges. The river is accessed from a motor able road at the starting point of the trip. From here on the trip is entirely self contained. Usually camps stay up at one spot for a few days depending on the catch. And then moving downstream to the next campsite and fishing ground (usually near a confluence with a side stream). All the gear including tents, food, cook, staff are carried on large 16' inflatable rafts. Your accommodation is in large tents with camp cots, mattresses, chairs and a dining tent. Portable western style toilets are also provided. Food served is a mixture of continental and Indian and caters to the western palate.

 TYPICAL ANGLING DAY : Typically the angling starts with an early morning session from the campsite followed by breakfast and then another angling session till lunch. Later in the evening the angling continues till dusk and sometimes until dark. Almost all the casting is done from shore. The rafts, if used, are usually to ferry you across the river.