Fly Fishing destinations worldwide - FFTC.club Magazine issue II-2020

No. II-2020 

www.fftc.club 

The FlyFisher Traveller Club 

Flydestinations worldwide 

Fishing 

FRESHWATER 

Europe 

Argentina 

USA 

Brazil 

Russia 

Africa 

SALTWATER 

Australia 

Bahamas 

Mexico 

F F T C 

FlyFisher Traveller Club 

est. 2017 

© ℗ FFTC.club 2020 

Get inspired for your next trip!

No. II-2020 

Cover photo: Golden Dorado at the Paraná River, a fishing trip with Golden Dorado River Cruiser 

from Brickhouse Creatives and El Encuentro Fly Fishing, Argentina 

destinations 

FRESHWATER 

Fl 

Europe 

Estonia - Estfly Guiding Service...................................6 

Spain - Rio Tormes.....................................................12 

Argentina 

Corrientes - Golden Fly Fishing Lodge......................28 

USA 

Alaska - Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge................36 

Brazil 

Amazon Roosevelt Lodge...........................................44 

Russia 

Kamchatka - Icha River Camp..................................58 

Africa 

Namibia - Ichingo Chobe River Lodge......................66 

2 contact@fftc.club


The FlyFisher Traveller Club 

yFishing 

destinations worldwide 

editorials 

Estonia - explore wild brown trout..............18 

Interview - with Benjamin Beale.................48 

Product review - Fly Rod 4wt....................77 

destinations 

Australia 

SALTWATER 

Ningaloo Reef...........................................................84 

Bahamas 

Crooked and Aklins Island......................................90 

Mexico 

Punta Allen Fishing Club........................................100 

videothek.........107 


3

The FFTC.club 

Founded for the worldwide 

passion to travel for fly fishing 

Our passion is the same as 

yours: traveling for pure flyfishing! 

All FlyFishers have their home spots and for sure we love 

to fish and spend our fishing time there. We know every 

stone, sometimes every fish in every pool. For sure we 

are all in love with our home spots but there are so many 

other foreign and attractive spots all over the world. 

Some of them are either in the direct neighborhood not 

far away from our home or just over the next border and 

you can reach them either by driving or flying for a 

couple of hours. 

Others are overseas, in a completely different country 

with a foreign language, far away from home. The charm 

to explore new destinations or to catch a new species of 

fish is enormous for the TRAVELLING FLYFISHER. We 

spend hour by hour in internet to organize and book a 

trip. The FFTC.club helps you to get this done quickly. 

The idea of founding the FlyFisher Traveller Club was 

born in March 2017 and it's growing very, very fast in my 

head and in my heart! I decided to use different 

professional resources to realize the idea and to make 

the dream come true that the FFTC will be the biggest 

FlyFisher Club and the fastest growing FlyFisher 

Community worldwide. A well organized membership 

The FFTC Members Area will offer a direct access to a 

huge number of the most experienced FlyFisher Guides 

and all the worthwhile freshwater and saltwater 

Destinations all around the globe. There are so many 

great Destinations out there - we are hungry to explore 

them - hand in hand with a Guide who is familiar with the 

Water to make our visions of unforgettable moments 

become real! 

We are proud to present a selection of worth-to-know fly 

fishing destinations around the globe in this digital 

magazine. We hope you enjoy reading our brand-new 

magazin. For more details about the FFTC.club please 

visit www.fftc.club - our BLOG or register for free to get 

unlimited access to the FFTC Members Area. 

Always tight lines, Alexander 

F F T C 


est. 2017 


Editor's letter 

Editorial 

November, 2020 

We are very proud to present the second issue of our 

brand-new FFTC Magazine. This digital magazine is 

made for those fly fishers, who loves to explore new 

destinations. 

Of course this year 2020 is totally terrible because of 

Corona pandemic. Travelling in general is difficult and 

extremely limited in this year. Later this year it is 

nearly impossible for the most of the countries 

worldwide. 

But you can explore new fly fishing destinations 

everywhere even in your home country without 

crossing the borders. 

In normal years we at FFTC love to travel for fly 

fishing. Not only to get an idea about foreign cultures, 

to meet interesting new people, see impressive 

landscapes and chase new fish species. 

The all-in-one experience drives us. 

With this publication we will present you some 

worth-to-know destinations around the globe in a 

traditional way - as a magazine. 

With the mission to try to keep your dreams alive. 

Our digital magazine is clickable. 

Do not hesitate to use this feature, watch embedded 

videos, and follow links to get more details about the 

particular country or destination. 

Meet you at the water. 

Always tight lines, 

Dear Reader 

Dear FFTC Member 

Alexander 

Publisher 

FFTC.club - FlyFisher Traveller Club 

powered by 

andante media DIGITAL 

ENTERTAINMENT CLG 

3 Cavendish Row, Dublin 1 

D01 KV26 Dublin / IRELAND 

Register No. 643231 

GERMANY 

andante media DIGITAL 

ENTERTAINMENT CLG 

Leopoldstrasse 2-8 

32051 Herford 

VAT ID/Umsatzsteuer ID: 

DE32291620 

phone/fax 

toll free (national DE) 

0800 - 724 3205 

FFTC.club office (south of Germany) 

phone international 

+49 (0)8151 950 1521 

email: contact@fftc.club 

editor in chief & director 

Alexander Dachlauer 

email: alexander@fftc.club 


5

EUROPE 

E 

Guide 

stonia 

Estfly Guiding Service 

Fly Fishing in Estonia? 

Estonia is covered with beautiful, 

clean, undisturbed rivers with wild 

brown trout and grayling. It takes an 

hour drive from the centre of the 

capital, Tallinn, to fishing waters 

where you will find wild brown trout, 

bear trails, and rarely see any other 

fishermen. 

You can find brown trout in more than 

one hundred rivers and streams, and 

in most of them, the trout are wild. 

About Estfly 

Estfly is the first and most 

experienced fishing guide in Estonia. 

We have served fly fishers from all 

over the world since 2007. We aim to 

introduce beautiful Estonian nature 

and brown trout rivers to fly fishers 

from abroad. 

Whether you are a beginner looking to 

learn the basics or a seasoned angler 

in search of new secrets, our guides 

will personally tailor the best fly fishing 

experience Estonia has to offer. 

... 


Our guides are expert anglers and 

have extensive experience with our 

brown trout rivers. We will plan the 

trip, arrange the licenses needed for 

the fishing tour, pick you up and take 

you back to the hotel or airport, and 

provide fishing gear and flies if 

needed. Feel free to contact us with 

your questions and inquiries. We 

would be happy to share our 

knowledge and experience. 

We customise all our fishing trips 

based on our clients’ needs. Let us 

know what species you are most 

interested in, what type of river you 

like, if you are into quantity or trophy 

hunting, if you prefer easy access or 

true wilderness, and how many days 

you would like to stay. 

We visit the rivers almost every day 

during fishing season, so you can rest 

assured that our fishing spots will 

offer the best experience that 

Estonian trout rivers can offer during 

your stay. 

SEASON 

Season is from Mai to September, the 

warmest months are July and August. Prime 

weeks in both months, and these are much 

sought after. 

RATES 

Accommodation on request - Guiding from 

EUR 200 half day - EUR 300 full day 

FFTC Member Advantage 

FFTC Voucher available - 25 USD 

off for FFTC Members / fisherman / 

booking guiding services 


7


E stonian 

nature is very peaceful 


9

EUROPE 

Guide 

Forests and mires make up more than 

half of the territory of Estonia. To 

preserve this diverse nature, the 

government created an extensive 

network of protected areas, 

protecting 22% of Estonia’s land. 

Rare animals like bears, wolves, and 

lynx inhabit our forests. Because our 

trout rivers flow through the wildest 

parts of Estonia, it’s very common to 

spot a moose, beaver, or roe deer 

while fishing. Even if you don’t see the 

animal itself, you can find moose 

droppings, beaver-chewed logs, and 

even fresh bear trails, which are all 

signs of a wild and healthy 

environment. 

The best time for fly fishing in Estonia is 

from May until September. It’s possible 

to catch brown trout during the winter 

months and in the early spring, but the 

weather is very unpredictable and water 

levels are high, so it might not be so 

enjoyable. 

Summer transforms the winter wonderland 

into a lush summer paradise that is 

perfect for fishing. 

The Rivers 

Estonia is covered with beautiful, 


brown trout and grayling. It takes an 

hour drive from the centre of the 

capital, Tallinn, to fishing waters 



fishermen. You can find brown trout in 

more than one hundred rivers, and in 

most of them, the trout are wild. Due 

that fishing in Estonia is memorable 

and unique experience. 

Brown trout is the main reason why fly 

fishers come here. Our rivers hold wild 

brown trout, which is very rare in most 

European countries. Our trout is very 

healthy and fat with a beautiful pattern 

and colour. They are strong fighters 

and selective. 


FFTC Member Contact 

We help you to plan your trip - just contact us! 

We appreciate to help you to make your 

dreams come true. 

Estfly 

Owner / Headguide Vahur Mäe 

Paasukese 11 

44315 Rakvere / ESTONIA 

phone: +372 5645 2789 

email: vahur@estfly.com 

web: www.estfly.com

EUROPE 

S 

pain 

Rio Tormes 

You will be well taken care of in old, Spanish rural houses 

where you will be served classic Spanish cuisine and wine. 

Spain might not be on the typical 

map of the destination angler. 

However, it has a long history in fly 

fishing. 

There are several species you can 

fish for: Iberian barbel aka the 

freshwater bonefish. Huge brown 

trout. Spooky sea trout and Atlantic 

salmon in their most southern 

location. Huge pike as well as black 

bass. 

The Rio Tormes offers great brown 

trout fishing. There is private fishing 

as well as public fishing available. 

The river itself looks a bit like an 

English chalk stream. 

Fishing can be done in reservoirs as 

well as gin clear (chalk) streams for 

trout, sea trout and salmon. 


EUROPE 


The beautiful 

R io T ormes 

and Iberian barbel in reservoirs 


15

EUROPE 

SEASON 

Season starts in March when the big fish 

are caught. In autumn there is great 

fishing again, but the fish are usually 

smaller compared to spring. 

RATES 

Full service packages available - from approx. 

EUR 2.500 /week 


2,5 % OFF the regular rates 





pukka destinations 

Owner Carsten Dogs 

Nernstweg 5 

22765 Hamburg / GERMANY 

16 contact@fftc.club 

phone: +49 1778086466 

email: info@pukka-destinations.com 

web: www.pukka-destinations.com

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Guest editorial 

by Vahur Mäe 


Chasing 

wild brown trout in Estonia 

Estonian nature is unspoiled and 

diverse - deep forests, picturesque 

lakes and rivers are just some of its 

treasures. Estonia has an area of 

45,215 km² - almost as large as 

Denmark and the Netherlands, but 

with a population of less than 1.4 

million. This small population density 

has enabled the country to preserve 

the natural environment better than in 

densely populated West European 

areas. 

Estonia is known for its beautiful 

Nordic nature, for its Tallinn medieval 

old-town or perhaps as a country 

where Skype was born. But few know 

that Estonia is covered with beautiful, 


brown trout and grayling. 


19


by Vahur Mäe 

It is only an hour drive from the centre 

of the capital, Tallinn, to fishing waters 



fishermen. This is one of the most 

unique aspects of Estonia. Wild 

nature and beautiful rivers with trophy 

trout are just a short drive away from 

the biggest towns. You can find brown 

trout in more than one hundred rivers, 

and in most of them, the trout are wild. 

Because trout rivers flow through the 

wildest parts of the country, it’s very 

common to spot a moose, beaver, or 

roe deer while fishing. Even if you 

don’t see the animal itself, you can 

find moose droppings, beaverchewed 

logs, and even fresh bear 

trails, which are all signs of a wild and 

healthy environment. 

Estonia isn't a widely-known fly 

fishing destination yet, but every 

year more travelling fly fishermen 

visit the country. Still, due to so many 

rivers to choose from, you rarely meet 

other fishermen while fishing. 

Small in form, but rich 

in content 

We Estonians like to say that our 

county may be small in form, but it is 

rich in content. That means that in this 

small country you can find Siberia 

taiga like forests, crystal clear rivers 

and streams, wide wetlands, more 

than 2000 islands, our historical 

folklore, best-preserved medieval city 

in Northern Europe and much more. 


Estonia is a modern technology 

oriented country, even called the 

start-up nation of Europe, but as soon 

as you leave Tallinn, you can find 

yourself on a gravel road, between 

large forests. 

Estonians love their forests, bogs and 

all the creatures that live there such as 

lynxes, brown bears, wolves and 

moose. We even like to call ourselves 

a forest nation, because many 

Estonians love to pick berries from our 

forests, gather mushrooms, go fishing 

or hunting. Collecting food from 

nature might be forgotten in many 

other countries in Europe, it is still in 

our roots and natural for us. In that 

sense, we are still very traditional, but 

at the same time couldn't imagine a 

life without our modern digital society. 

From voting to signing documents 

online, Estonia implements a hassle 

free and modern approach to running 

one's errands. 

Estonia is the first e-government in the 

world and offers e-residency to 

people from all over the world. Some 

of the recipients of Estonian e- 

residency include Angela Merkel and 

Barack Obama. 

Trout rivers of Estonia 

By European standards, Estonian 

rivers are small to mid-size. 

Although land is relatively flat, there 

are beautiful, fast-running rapids that 

flow through virgin coniferous forests, 

which are often called an extension of 

the Siberian taiga in Estonia. The fastrunning 

stretches hold a good amount 

of fish, but the biggest trout tend to be 

in the slower and deeper stretches of 

these rivers. 

Therefore, typical fishing water is 

slow- to medium-running chalk 

stream surrounded by meadows, old 

forests, and marshes. 

Estonia has a suitable type of water for 

every fisherman. There are spots with 

easy access from a car and where you 

don’t need to cover more than a few 

hundred meters to have good and 

productive fishing. And there are 

plenty of spots for adventurous fly 

fisherman where you can either hike 

for hours to get to wild and untouched 

rivers or you could fish upstream for 

days without seeing any signs of 

civilization. 

What to catch? 

Estonian rivers hold wild brown trout 

and grayling. Estonian brown trout 

is very healthy, fat and with a 

beautiful pattern and colour. They 

are strong fighters and selective. The 

average size of a brown trout is 35-40 

cm. 

A good-size trout in Estonia is around 

50 cm. Although catching fish in this 

size is challenging, it is rather 

common. A trophy-size brown trout 

in Estonia is 55–65 cm. Trout that big 

aren’t rare, but catching them requires 

good skills, perfect timing, and luck. 

Grayling is present only in a handful of 

rivers, but in these, they are thriving. 

Average grayling size in some rivers is 

even bigger than that of an average 

brown trout. They often range in size 

from 35 cm to 40 cm, but 45 cm 

graylings are rather common. 

... 21 

www.fftc.club


by Vahur Mäe (photo below) 

You can even find graylings up to 50 

cm. 

Although brown trout and grayling 

offer most interest to travelling 

fisherman, Estonia also has good 

sea trout and salmon run. Stocks of 

salmon and sea trout are getting 

better every year, but it is rather hard 

to plan a fishing trip for these two 

species nowadays. 

Just because weather is becoming 

more unpredictable and salmon and 

sea trout rise to the rivers when 

water is high and cold, but in recent 

years’ suitable conditions could arrive 

as early as September or as late as in 

November. 

As we don’t have mountains and our 

summers are rather warm, we don’t 

have trout in lakes, but they hold a 

good population of pike, perch and 

other lake fishes. 

Fishing season 

The best season for fishing in Estonia 

begins in May. Then the waters flow 

at the normal level, nature is in bloom, 

the weather is warm, and both brown 

trout and grayling feed actively. 

The peak time for fly fishing is the 

mayfly hatch which is in June. 

When the mayfly hatch is over, fish 

look towards the surface till the end of 

summer. 

July and August are the warmest 

months and offer the most stable 

weather. These months are the most 

convenient for fly fishers and offer 

exceptional fishing. Small- to mid-size 

trout are very active in the rapids and 

feed on smaller mayflies that hatch all 

summer long. 


Big fish in the deeper stretches are 

always ready to bite a tasty terrestrial 

fly, but their most active feeding 

period starts in the late evening when 

large caddis flies are hatching. Brown 

trout season ends in mid-September. 

Mayfly hatch - beginning of 

summer and remarkable 

trout fishing 

Mayfly hatch is the most awaited 

period for every fly angler in Estonia. 

Danica hatch begins usually in early 

June and lasts three weeks in different 

rivers. Our Danica hatch is very dense 

and most of our brown trout and 

grayling eat from a surface very 

actively throughout this period. It is 

the best time for brown trout fishing in 

Estonia, but for me it’s not so 

important and special just because of 

good fishing. For me it’s a symbol. It 

marks the beginning of summer and 

remarkable trout fishing. 

Our winter and spring are long, cold 

and windy. Beautiful fishing weather 

arrives just before the mayfly hatch. 

Also, our nature is in full bloom and 

green by the beginning of this big 

hatch. Estonian trout feed underwater 

for most of the year and in spring you 

rarely see any movement or activity on 

the surface. But as soon as the first 

mayflies are hatching rivers spark 

alive. 

My favourite fishing days are the first 

days of the hatch because every trout 

seems to feast on mayflies as much as 

they can. 

On a first day the hatch isn’t so intense 

and due to that trout takes every fly 

which is floating by. They chase them 

several meters, sometimes hit the fly 

with a huge splash or even jump out of 

the water to catch one. It’s a beautiful 

sight to see these fat and wild trout 

feeding undisturbed on a food they 

have waited for so long. On these 

days, you can see beautiful fish after 

every few meters and trout take 

presented flies very well. 


23


by Vahur Mäe 


They haven’t seen other fishermen yet 

and almost every trout takes the fly as 

soon as it hits the water. 

July and August – terrestrial action 

Mayfly hatch is a trigger for a surface 

activity and due to that fish continues 

to rise even when the mayfly hatch 

period is over. Trout are eager to take 

mayfly patterns, because single 

mayflies continue to hatch long after 

the main period is over. Also, we have 

a large amount of terrestrial flies which 

land on water during hot summer days 

and make daytime fishing very 

thrilling. Mid-summer is the time of 

grasshoppers, damsels and different 

beetles. Although windy days don't 

offer best conditions for fly fishing, 

wind pushes different terrestrial flies in 

the water and could offer very thrilling 

fly fishing. Best spots during these 

days are slow running stretches which 

meander through grassy fields. Even if 

you don’t see a rising fish, a good size 

hopper and skating-sedge technique 

will draw the attention of every fish. 

Matching the caddis hatch 

In a second half of the summer, 

different types of sedges are hatching 

and in late evening they come to a river 

to lay their eggs. This is a very 

interesting time in our rivers. During 

the hottest days rivers seem to be 

dead quiet, but when you wait till the 

time when sun disappears between 

the woods, the river comes to life. You 

can see caddis flying around and soon 

you see first strong splashes and flies 

chasing fish. This is a very attractive 

time for fly fishing. 

That means that you cast a fly to a 

water and instead of dead drift you 

pull fly slowly so it leaves a V shape to 

a water. When dry fishing like this, 

trout wouldn’t rise carefully and slowly 

like they usually do. Instead they rush 

toward the fly and hit it hard. It’s a 

remarkable view and very thrilling. 

Often fish misses the fly, but there is 

often enough hungry fish around to 

catch. 

This action lasts from late evening till 

complete darkness. Fishing in pitchblack 

conditions is an experience of its 

own, although you need to know the 

river very well. Using the same 

technique during the night time 

means that you don’t see a rise, you 

just need to strike when you hear the 

splash. 

Where to fish in Estonia? 

You can find trout rivers and streams 

all over Estonia, but the best rivers are 

mostly located in the middle of 

Estonia, on a north coast and in south 

Estonia. Rivers are rather different in 

these three regions, so is the 

landscape. Middle-Estonia rivers are 

spring creeks with a very clear water 

and most of these are chalk stream 

type of waters where current is slow 

and water deep. Rivers mostly flow 

through meadows and wetlands and 

have thriving insect life and brown 

trout grows very large in these waters. 

Biggest brown trout of Estonia 

which weighed 6,3 kg were caught 

from one of these small spring creeks. 

Catching brown trout from these 

rivers isn’t easy. There is no current, 

water is extremely clear and trout is 

wary and selective. 


25


by Vahur Mäe 

These small rivers truly test fly 

fisherman skills because careful 

stalking and perfect presentation is 

required for success. When you 

succeed, and get a bite, you will get a 

fight to remember. These wild and 

large fish wouldn’t give up easily. 

North-Estonia rivers offer more 

variety. Upper parts of these rivers 

offer similar conditions as Central- 

Estonia rivers, but middle and lower 

stretches have beautiful and wide 

rapids and rivers flow through large 

coniferous forests. Besides brown 

trout, these rivers also have 

grayling and salmon run in autumn. 

South-Estonia is our hilliest region, 

and due to that most of the rivers are 

fast running and rather shallow. 

Several rivers of this region flow 

through sandstone canyons and offer 

spectacular views together with good 

fishing. 

Species in this region are brown trout, 

grayling and chub, which is perhaps 

not so highly valued target species for 

fly fisherman, but it is an interesting 

bycatch when fishing for trout. 

Most Estonian fly fishermen like to 

keep their fishing spots secret and 

due to that it’s not possible to find 

much information on the internet. 

Reason for that is the fact that rivers 

are rather small and don’t handle 

crowds and Estonians like to spend 

their time in nature alone rather than 

meeting anyone else. 

To get to the best rivers as a traveller 

you need to have plenty of time for 

exploring or you could hire an 

experienced fly fishing guide who 

knows all the secret spots. 


Estfly guided fishing trips 

Estfly is the first and most experienced 

fishing guide in Estonia. In 2007, we 

sat by the fire on a bank of our 

favourite trout river and decided that 

we would like to share our favourite 

and secret spots with other fishermen 

and Estfly was born. Before that there 

were very few foreigners who had 

fished the Estonian trout rivers and 

Estonia was unknown in the world of 

fly fishing. Estonia is still off the beaten 

track for travelling fly fisherman, but 

the ones who have been here have 

had very memorable fishing days and 

some well-travelled fly fishermen have 

even said that Estonia might be one of 

the best spots in Europe for catching 

wild trophy brown trout. 

All our fishing trips, whether it is for a 

day or for a week are custom made 

based on our clients wishes and our 

guides' field-knowledge. Our fishing 

guides are expert anglers and have 

extensive experience with our brown 

trout rivers. We spend most of the 

days at the river side, and always pick 

the fishing spots which currently work 

the best. For preparation of the trip we 

ask about the type of water our client 

likes to fish, is it easy fishing or hike to 

an unmolested wilderness, quantity or 

trophy hunting and based on this 

knowledge we plan the trip. 

Most of our clients arrive to Estonia by 

plane. We meet our clients at the 

airport and take them to a cosy 

countryside hotel near the fishing 

waters. Every fisherman will have a 

nice and clean room, can have a hot 

sauna after the fishing day, and enjoy 

a barbecue in the backyard after a 

good fishing trip. 

Restaurant of this hotel is serving 

traditional Estonian meals and those 

meals have been very valued by our 

guests. Accommodation is budgetfriendly, 

situated in the peaceful 

countryside, and located a maximum 

of 30 minutes from our favourite 

fishing spots. 

If needed, we will provide necessary 

fly fishing gear and suitable flies. Also, 

our guided trips include all required 

fishing licenses. There are three types 

of fishing licenses that trout 

fisherman need to know for fishing 

in Estonia. First is the general 

fishing license which covers most 

of Estonian water bodies. It is very 

cheap and it is possible to buy this 

online. Current cost for a week is 3 

euros. Extra license is needed for 

middle-Estonia trout rivers, which 

is 6 euros for a day. Last but not 

least is a salmon and sea trout 

rivers license, which is needed for 

the rivers and stretches where 

these two species are spawning. 

This license is 9 euros a day. 

Although it is called salmon and sea 

trout license, it is also needed when 

fishing for brown trout from these 

rivers. Foreigners can buy these two 

licenses from the post office. 

Currently online booking for these two 

isn’t available. 

During the fishing days, our guides 

take our guests to our favourite spots 

and share all their knowledge from 

finding the fish, how to approach the 

fish, how to do a perfect presentation 

and what flies to use. For novice 

anglers, we are happy to give casting 

lessons and give casting instructions 

throughout the trip. Beautiful fish 

caught by our client is always our best 

reward. 

Guest editorial by Vahur Mäe, ESTONIA © 2020 all photos www.estfly.com 


27

ARGENTINAC orrientes 

Golden Fly Fishing Lodge 

A bucketlist 

experience 

A unique fishing trip in untamed clear 

waters featuring gourmet food, 

personalized service by family 

owners, in a cozy and welcoming 

lodge with rustic-elegant interiors. 

Come face to face with the Tiger of the 

River, surrounded by Golden waves 

as you set the hook, a Golden Dorado 

with a scowl on his face angry as hell, 

will suddenly jump three feet in the air 

showing his teeth before diving back 

into the river, busting your reel with his 

aggression. 

Take the challenge. What are you 

waiting for? 

The Golden Fly Fishing Lodge is 

located in Corrientes on the best 

clear water section of the 

upper Paraná River, home to 

record size Golden Dorados. 


Colonial-Estancia style 

fishing lodge 

Guests are welcomed into a private 

and friendly atmosphere at our 

colonial-estancia style lodge that lays 

on the pristine Upper Parana River, 

dense with mature, regional trees. 

As a true Italian-Argentinean family, 

we’re devoted to good cuisine. We 

offer 4-course meals featuring 

international and regional specialties, 

such as our famed beef and traditional 

Asado (BBQ), prepared by a Personal 

Chef for each group of anglers, paired 

with fine Argentine wines from the 

renowned Mendoza region. 

The building offers 4 cozy and unique 

style rooms, with private bath & airconditioner, 

a salon decorated with 

wood furniture and a fireplace 

creating a friendly atmosphere where 

fishing stories come to life. Our lodge 

provides on-site Fly Shop and Flytying 

table, dining room and outdoor 

barbecue facing the garden where 

Howler Monkeys and Tucans enjoy 

eating flowers and fruits from mature 

trees. 


29

ARGENTINA 



31

ARGENTINA 



13

The 

T 

iger of the river 


33

ARGENTINA 

The Rio Paraná 

Grand Slam 

Challenge the three most coveted 

and voracious species of Argentina 

and achieve the freshwater Grand 

Slam: Golden Dorado, Pirá Pytá 

and Pacú. You can also expect to 

catch several other sporty species. 

The Tiger of the River 

Golden Dorado 

This is the most exciting freshwater 

species in South America. It has 

Tarpon-like tendencies and is 

known for its aggressive strikes, 

finger-burning runs, acrobatic 

fights, and overall beauty. 


The Elusive Species 

PACÚ 

This treasured species is as difficult 

to find and catch as the saltwater 

Permit. Found only from December 

to April, it’s a highly coveted fish by 

serious anglers who seek to 

complete the Golden Fly Fishing 

Grand Slam. 

The River Salmon 

PIRÁ PYTÁ 

With Bonefish-like speed, this 

freshwater fish is known for its lineripping 

runs and fierce fighting. It is 

undoubtedly one of the most 

exquisite fishing experiences that 

our region offers and requires the 

your utmost focus and precision 

casting dry flies.

Golden Fly Fishing is a family business built by two brothers born on the 

banks of the High Paraná River in Argentina. 

Trip extensions & Ecotours 

Jurassic Lake Patagonia 

Jurassic Lake & Golden Fly Fishing merged to bring to you the best combined fishing 

trip in Argentina, the beauty of biggest trouts in the world with the most pristine fishing 

for the beast Golden Dorado. 

Iberá Natural Reserve 

The planet’s greatest freshwater wetland 

One of the most fascinating regions for wildlife safari enthusiasts and for lovers of 

virgin nature. This wetland of more than 3 million acres comprises swamps, marshes 

and lagoons holding an abundance wildlife, including caimans, capybaras, big otters, 

anacondas, swamp deers, approximately 1,600 variety of plants and more tan 350 

bird species. 

SEASON 

September to May (excl. November) 


RATES 

Paraná Grand Slam (7 nights/ 6 days 

fishing): 

USD 3.950 in double base occupancy 

Upgrade single room 500 USD / week 

Upgrade single room and boat 50% 

surcharge 

Half week (5 nights/ 4 days fishing): 


Combo: Paraná Grand Slam + full 

week Jurassik Lake, Patagonia: 


Upgrade single room 700 USD / week 





Botta Brothers 

Phone: +54 9 (3624) 76 9014 

(within ARGENTINA) 


10 % OFF the regular rates 

Phone: +001 (702) 5 GOLDEN 

(USA only) 

E-mail: info@goldenflyfishing.com 

35

USA 

A 

laska 

Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge 

Fly-Fishing in Alaska is more than just a sport or 

passion - it’s a way of life. 


Once you have been bitten by the bug, 

you’re “hooked”. So beware – fish the 

Alagnak River at your own peril, 

because once you’ve been there, 

once will never be enough. This is 

attested to by our many clients that 

come back every year to get their “fix”! 

A stay at ATA Lodge provides you with 

one of the most remote and stunningly 

beautiful locations on the planet to 

experience the very best of what 

Alaska Fly Fishing has to offer. 

Whether it be the sensation of a 

35+lbs King Salmon pushing a double 

handed rod to its limits or seeing a 26- 

inch rainbow trout rise to crush a 

mouse pattern tied the previous 

evening or just the feeling that no one 

has ever fished these beautiful waters 

before; 

it has to be said that fishing on the 

Alagnak River is something very 

special. It brings us back to the reason 

we started fishing in the first place 

when we were children. For the sheer 

joy of it! For the thrill of a tight line, and 

the sound of a reel's drag screaming! 

"We are home to what is 

one of the largest runs of 

all five species of pacific 

salmon to be found in the 

same river anywhere in 

the world." 


37

USA 

ATA is situated on the remote banks of 

Alaska’s first ever designated Wild 

and Scenic River. Our location on the 

Alagnak Wild River makes ATA Lodge 

the perfect wilderness fishing retreat. 

Boasting a world-famous run of all five 

species of pacific salmon, the Alagnak 

is also home to a host of resident fish 

as well, such as leopard rainbow trout, 

arctic char and grayling. 


This prestigious river is located within 

the Katmai National Park, with its 

headwaters in the surrounding 

mountains and flowing into Bristol 

Bay. 

It is also famously known as “The 

Branch River” for its seemingly 

endless braids, where 10 miles of river 

can easily contain 30 miles of fishable 

waters. With such exclusive river 

access you are sure not to be bothered 

by any crowds.


39

USA 

For many, Alaska has always been a 

dream destination, somewhere they 

envision coming to only once in a 

lifetime. But once you get up here and 

experience all of what we have to 

offer, it will be hard to stay away. 

There is something about catching a 

huge Alaskan rainbow trout or 

salmon, surrounded by beauty 

beyond compare, that I believe calls 

to the deepest part in all of us. 

For the indoctrinated who have never 

heard of Bristol Bay, you could be 

forgiven for not realizing how this 

region stands head and shoulders 

above the rest. Those “in the know”, 

have discovered that Bristol Bay, 

in Southwest Alaska is hands 

down, the best fresh water 

salmon and trout fishing on the 

planet. 


The Alagnak River 

This prestigious river is located within 

Katmai National Park, with its 

headwaters in the surrounding 

mountains and draining into Bristol 

Bay. It is also known as the Branch 

River, for its seemingly endless 

braided river channels. Wading and 

fishing are made easy on the many 

small natural islands and gravel bars, 

which the river flow creates. The 

Alagnak has world-famous runs of 

all five species of Pacific salmon, 

and is home to a host of resident fish, 

such as leopard rainbow trout, arctic 

char and grayling, lake trout and pike. 

The Nonvianuk River 

The Nonvianuk River runs 11-miles 

from its mouth at Nonvianuk Lake to 

where it meets the Kukaklek River to 

form the Alagnak. The Nonvianuk river 

is mostly class 2 technical water, with 

many bolder gardens and shallow 

sections.

The Kukaklek River 

Flowing out of Kukaklek Lake the river 

runs 19-miles through mostly fast 

flowing technical water until it reaches 

the confluence and joins with the 

Nonvianuk river to form the Alagnak. 

The Kukaklek is well known for its 

short section of narrow, class 3 rapids 

contained by steep canyon walls. 

What is less known is that a section of 

this rapids creates a small waterfall 

with an easily accessible, natural 

overlook which is perfect for viewing 

feeding bears in the height of the 

salmon run. 

SEASON 

June to September 

RATES 

Loding & Guiding Rates available for: 

7 Nights stay / 6 days guided fishing 

for USD 5.750 

Camping & Guiding Rates available for: 

7 Nights stay / 6 days guided fishing 

for USD 3.495 

Cabins: 

Comfortable heated riverfront cabin 

with access to toilet and hot showers 

only a few steps away from your cabin 

door, or en-suite toilet and hot 

showers. 




41

USA 





42 

Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge 

phone contacts 

Wayne McGee (McGee Family) 

phone: 001 877 801 2289 

phone: 001 907 519 6820 

phone: 044 7775 602 424 

Email: atalodge.wayne@gmail.com

Special Gift - The FFTC GIFT VOUCHER for Fly Fishers 

"A small gift with a great value for every traveling Fly 

Fisher"... 

If you are searching for a really special gift for a fly 

fishing buddy or family member - here it is! 

C A R T O O N 

© 2020 FFTC.club 


43

BRAZIL 

B 

razil 

Amazon Roosevelt Lodge 

A Fine Lodge On The Rio 

Roosevelt 

The Amazon Roosevelt Lodge is 

located just upriver on the Rio 

Roosevelt where it flows into the 

Rio Aripuanã. 

It is constructed totally from 

sustainable timber and natural 

resources. There are eight private 

rooms that can sleep up to three 

anglers. 


Easy to get to from the city of Manaus, 

the gateway to the mighty Amazon 

and its tributaries, in the State of 

Amazonas, this very comfortable 

lodge offers great meals, has friendly 

staff and top service, and being on the 

river itself, is really close to the action!

The Fishing 

Fly fishing is a wonderful way to 

search out many species with 

amazing results. Most of the fastwater 

species like Bicuda and Payara will rip 

line off your reel at a blistering pace 

and stripping gloves must be worn to 

avoid cuts and burns. Peacock Bass 

congregating around the rocky 

islands and banks of the river will 

attack flies with abandon. 

We can also target the huge Pirarucú / 

Arapaima in the lake systems on 

cutbait or large lures and flies. 

In the Semauma Falls an hour’s boat 

ride above the lodge, the Payara 

action is spectacular and these 

big sabre-toothed silver missiles can 

be caught on flies. 

This incredibly beautiful area is 

studded with boulders and rock 

gardens with many braids, rapids and 

falls. 

Anglers can also try for some huge 

Piraracú/Arapaima in one of the lakes 

on flies, but these fish are shy and very 

difficult to catch here. 

"A great jungle adventure is awaiting 

you. Spectacular catches and the 

untouched jungle surrounding match 

every adventurous soul." 


45

BRAZIL 


SEASON 

June to November 


RATES 

Weekly program (7 nights in lodge,/ 1 

night in hotel / 6 1/2 days fishing): 

USD 3.990 per angler 

• Included: Pick up and transfer to hotel 

and overnight, return flights 

Manaus/Apuí, car transfer to river 

and boat to lodge, all food and 

standard beverages while at 

lodge and while fishing, daily 

laundry, 6 1/2 days guided fishing 

based on double occupancy. 

• Not Included: International and internal 

flights to and from Manaus except as 

stated above, any extra hotel stays, 

transfers other than stated above, visas, 

meals and drinks while not at lodge, any 

tips, hard liquor, wine. 






WORLDWIDE FISHING ADVENTURES 

LIMITED 

Suite 205A 

Saffrey Squarem Bank Lane & Bay 

Street 

P.O. Box N-4244, Nassau, Bahamas 

EU & rest of the world: +351 917812328 

US and Canada toll free: 1 866 920 2814 

email: info@amazon-angler.com 

47

INTERVIEW 

nterview 

I21 questions 

to Benjamin Beale 

Owner of El Encuentro Fly Fishing, Lodge 

and Brook Trout Base Camp, Chubut, Argentina 

1. In which country where you born and where did 

you grow up? 

"I was born in the small town of Esquel, Chubut, Argentina and raised 

on the banks of the Rio Grande/Futaleufu, where all my family enjoyed 

the outdoors and Fly fishing as the family activity." 

2. When did you start fishing? (please also mention 

the type of fishing you started with…) 

"I started fly fishing at the age of eight and has been fishing passionately 

ever since. I always watched my grandfather and father head off fishing, 

and I would beg to be invited out with them!" 

3. Do you remember your first catch? 

"No, I don’t remember it. But I do remember when I was very young 

around 8 years old, a day out on the Futaleufu river where I caught over 

20 fish that day. After that day I was hooked with fly fishing for life, 

obviously the next day I went out again and it wasn’t as productive. 

That’s all you need, an outstanding day of fishing to fall in love with the 

sport." 


The Beale Family - from left to right: Michael Beale (dad), Benjamin, Cecilia, Tomas, 

Antonia, Nicolas and Jane (mum). 

4. Who taught you how to fish? 

"My grandfather, my father and I also learned a lot from anglers that 

visited us from all over the worlds in the days that social media and 

communications were not at the tip of your fingers as they are 

today, I was very lucky to guide renowned anglers that just by 

sitting on the same boat one would learn a lot!" 

5. When did you start guiding? 

"I started guiding at the age of 15, taking fishing longtime guests 

of the Lodge that were like family and were up to fish with me. It 

wasn’t until I was 18 years old when I became a certified fishing 

guide." 

6. Do you remember your first guiding 

experience? (Where was it and who was your first 

guest / from which country he/ she was?) 

"Mr. and Mrs. Fout from Virginia, US were the two first guests that 

were brave enough to go fishing with me. They used to come for 

over three weeks of holidays staying at El Encuentro Lodge, so 

they were truly like family." 


49

INTERVIEW 

with Benjamin Beale 

7. When did you start to manage the El Encuentro Fly 

Fishing? 

"I took over the reins of the family business in 2012. I remember it 

was a year after the Chaiten Volcano in Chile had erupted and we 

had had a couple of years were not many anglers were visiting the 

area." 

8. What is the philosophy of El Encuentro Fly Fishing? 

"With decades hosting anglers, El Encuentro knows that a 

memorable experience goes well beyond the catching of fish. It’s 

the friendships that develop with you and your guide, your lodge 

hosts, and our staff that stay with you long after you have returned 

home. Our team understands this and works hard to nurture an 

amazing experience for you, every step of the way – including the 

delicious meals artfully created with fresh ingredients from our 

kitchen garden, your guide sharing local history as you drive to a 

new fishing spot, and that it’s ok when the fish seem to outsmart 

you on every cast... 


...Once you choose to come with El Encuentro, we are always 

proud to consider you a new friend, with an enduring friendship 

that goes beyond our days together in Patagonia." 

9. How do you select a new fishing guide? 

"For El Encuentro the team of guides is one of our strengths and 

it is very important. We understand that our guests will be spending 

most of the day with our guides so at the moment of adding new 

guides to the team we seek in them more than just a good 

fisherman. Apart from being passionate about this sport they need 

to be able to provide a fun and entertained day sharing their 

knowledge about our area, culture, flora and fauna all while 

catching fish. 

Our guides are career professionals, dedicated to the sport, 

constantly raising the bar of knowledge and technique in 

Patagonia Fly Fishing. They love nothing more than to share their 

skill and expertise with visiting anglers. They are all hard workers 

and speak English very well." 

10. How do you select a cook for your lodge kitchen? 

"Pinky, EEFF Chef, loves cooking professionally, and has truly 

found his passion working with El Encuentro’s big family and 

getting to reconnect with our returning guests over the years. He 

has been working at EEFF for six seasons now, and each one 

brings new challenges and new recipes to showcase Argentine 

cuisine. 

At El Encuentro Flyfishing we take great pride in our culinary 

program. “Farm to Table” isn’t just a trendy hashtag for us, it’s a 

necessity, a way of life handed down from generation to 

generation, rich in Argentine tradition. Our head chef, Pinky, and 

his team craft exceptional meals featuring fresh ingredients from 

our own expansive organic gardens and orchards, as well as 

locally sourced organic meats from neighboring estancias. Wether 

dining at our home lodge overlooking the blue green waters of the 

Rio Futaleufú, or at our remote Brook Trout Base Camp on the 

banks of the Rio Corcovado, you are sure to experience a true taste 

of Patagonia! ... 


51

INTERVIEW 

El Encuentro Lodge on Rio Futaleufu 

EEFF proudly grow most of the organic vegetables in the one-acre 

kitchen garden and serve eggs from their own chickens. Lamb, 

beef and other products are locally sourced from family and local 

markets. Breads are baked daily at the lodge. Not to be forgotten, 

superb Argentine wines are served at lunch and dinner, even when 

you have lunch on the riverside. Guests are treated to a traditional 

Patagonian “asado” (barbecue) with the family and all the guides 

– a most memorable dining experience!" 

11. Beside the beautiful country Argentina, which 

other countries have you visited for fly fishing 

trips? 

"I have been very lucky to have fished in many other countries and 

locations. That is one of the great benefits of this activity. My 

brothers and I try to take a year trip all together to fish for all the 

famous species that are great value for fly fishing. We try to 

combine saltwater and freshwater trips and this has taken us to 

different countries around the world such as: Alaska, Canada, 

Mexico, diverent spots in the United States, Cuba, Brazil, Belize, 

Chile, New Zealand, Great Britain among others." 

12. The north of Argentina is also known for Golden 

Dorados - what is your personal experience with this 

great sport fish? 

"The northeast of Argentina, among other provinces, offers some 

of the best Dorado fly fishing experiences. Dorado fish is one of the 

few at the top of my list of species to catch with a fly. I try to get up 

to the northeast as often as I can as Dorados is a beautiful fish that 

puts up an amazing fight and they are addictive." 


13. What was the most memorable moment in your 

fishing career? 

"As a lodge owner and a Flyfisher for me the most reward I get from 

fly fishing is sharing the dinner table with guests/anglers after a 

great day of stories and experiences." 

14. What do you think about the „catch of the 

lifetime“ - have you already done it or are you still 

waiting for it? 

"The more you get out there, the more chances to get a catch of 

a lifetime. I don’t want to brag but I feel that I am very lucky, and 

I have caught many fish of a lifetime. Nevertheless, there is always 

one more cast to do with the hope to catch the big fish of the pool." 

15. What country is still on your bucket list and why 

you wanna go there? 

"One of my favorite species to catch on a fly is the Atlantic salmon 

so countries such as Iceland, Norway, Scotland are at the top of 

my bucket list to go after this species. Also, coming from a part of 

the world where winters are very long but with beautiful summers 

and great trout fishing, for me a good family vacation is to visit 

Central America and go after saltwater species such as tarpon, 

permit, bonefish all combined with beautiful beaches." 

16. How would you describe a memorable fishing 

day? 

"To me a memorable fishing day starts the evening before, the 

excitement of preparing the gear and equipment already sets the 

expectations for the following day. To me a great day of fishing is 

having the opportunity, while enjoying with friends, to try different 

techniques and chase different species throughout the day. It’s 

also nice to know that the big fish could happen at any cast. 

Nothing compares to beginning a day of fishing in new and 

unknown waters." 


53

INTERVIEW 

with Benjamin Beale 

17. Do you tie flies? (what patterns you prefer / to tie / 

to fish) 

"Although I can tie flies and I have done it a lot in the past these days 

it's hard for me to find the time and the patience to tie my own flies. 

I would have to be honest and say that most of my flies I buy from 

great tiers that can do a much better job than me. I don’t mind tying 

the one or two patterns of which I am running short and I know that 

are working. But just to fill in the gaps!" 

18. What is your preferred fly fishing method? 

(wading, drift boat, rafting, river or lake fishing) 

"I have to say that I love them all. I like the possibility to identify what 

is working well and use the right technique at the right time in the 

right place. I do have a small inclination to stripping streamers to 

big fish." 

19. Do you find enough time to go fishing yourself? 

"Yes, there is always time to get some fishing done. It’s hard to take 

a whole day of fishing unless one is on vacation but slipping out to 

the water regularly for one or two hours of fishing in the area we live 

is very easy." 


20. Do you like saltwater fly fishing and if so, what is 

your personal experience with this? 

"Saltwater fishing is also great! I love the contrast to freshwater 

fishing, and I try to go once a year at least. I love the strength and 

size that fish get to in the sea and catching them on a fly is truly a 

battle. If one analyzes that most saltwater fishing is also on a 

beautiful setting with sandy beaches, hot weather and beautiful 

sea." 

21. The COVID-19 pandemic effects the world and 

last but not least the travel industry. How you handle 

this challenges and what actions will be taken for the 

upcoming season? 

"It is our focus to implement procedures that ensure the safety, 

health, and well-being of both our employees and our customers. 

This is a fluid situation requiring an adaptable plan, and we will be 

updating these procedures as the season and situation 

unfolds. Our Goals are basically to: 

-Ensure the health and safety of our employees and customers 

-Implement procedures that prevent and minimize the 

transmission of Covid-19 

-Comply with federal, state, and various government agency 

mandates 

We continue to wait for official communication from the 

government to know when the borders will be reopened and what 

the travel restrictions will be. At this point, we find it hard to think 

of welcoming all our friends during November and December due 

to the strict traveling measures taken in regards to COVID19. At El 

Encuentro we are fine, carrying out a subsistence economy and 

committed to be ready for our friends when it is safe to travel 

again." 

please note after the interview we get updated: the season 2020/21 is cancelled! 

AD-FFTC: 

..Benjamin, thank you! Take care of you and your 

loved ones. I hope we will meet again in Argentina 

and we will spent one more time on the water and 

beside. 


55

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RUSSIA 

KIcha River Camp 

amchatka 

Kamchatka - the wild peninsula 

of volcanoes, geysers and - 

fantastic (fly) fishing! 

Kamchatka is located in eastern 

Russia, is slightly larger than 

Germany, but has just over 300,000 

inhabitants, two thirds of whom live in 

the capital Petropavlovsk. 

In terms of tourism, Kamchatka is 

best known for its unregulated and 

overwhelming nature. 

Every year tourists travel to the 

peninsula for the Kamchatka 

volcanoes (more than 160, 29 of 

which are still active) or its geysers 

of the Dolina Geiserow valley. 

Similar to the Kola Peninsula, 

Kamchatka has only been accessible 

to tourists since the Cold War. And 

analogous to the Kola Peninsula in 

northwestern Russia, the fish stocks 

on Kamchatka were able to develop 

undisturbed. 



59

RUSSIA 



61

RUSSIA 


www.fftc.club 61 63

RUSSIA 

More than 12000 rivers (!) meander 

through the peninsula, and represent 

a fishing paradise for fishermen who 

are after salmonids. Rivers, 

landscapes, and climate are very 

similar to that of Alaska, but far fewer 

guests are fishing here. 

STATIONARY CAMP 

The rustic and comfortable Icha River 

Camp is idyllically located directly on 

the Icha River, surrounded by forest. It 

is far from the nearest civilization and 

can accommodate up to 18 guests. 

The guests sleep in wooden cabins. 

The cabins have electric heaters and 

some have river views. 

The camp also has a heated drying 

room for waders, toilets, sauna and 

showers with heated water. Breakfast 

and dinner are taken in a separate hut. 

At lunchtime, the guides prepare 

meals right on the river. 

ICHA River 

Guests fish exclusively on 50km 

stretch of the Icha River in the 

spectacular landscape of Kamchatka 

(25km upstream and 25km downstream 

from the camp). 

The river has its source at Icha 

volcano and then flows wildly and 

unregulated towards the sea, has 

crystal clear water and is perfect for fly 

fishing. The riverbed consists 

mostly of fine gravel, so the river is 

easy to wade. 


Target Species 

The target fish species are 6 Pacific salmon species (king salmon, silver salmon, 

sockeye salmon, dog salmon, humpback salmon and endemic and only to be 

found here on the west coast of Kamchatka: the cherry salmon), wild rainbow trout, 

arctic char, Dolly Varden char and Kundjas (a species of char also endemic in 

Kamchatka ). 

The main target fish in July are king axis (chinook) and rainbow trout. The water level 

is mostly high, two-handed rods up to class 9 and sinking lines are usually fished. 

August offers the best chance for a particularly large number of fish species. 

Rainbow trout, char and salmon are in the river. The water level is usually much 

lower, you fish with single-handed rods of classes 8-9 with floating lines and sinking 

tips. 

In September it is already significantly cooler, the main target fish are now rainbow 

trout, Kundjas and silver salmon (Cohos). The water level is still low, the same 

device is used as in August. The forests are turning into wonderful autumn colors. 


SEASON 

Season is from 15th of July to 15th of 

October - prime time is July-September 

RATES 

9 nights / 6,5 days fishing - special 

promotion rate EUR 3.190 








Nernstweg 5 


phone: +49 1778086466 


web: www.pukka-destinations.com 

65

AFRICA 

N 

amibia 

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge 

EXPERIENCE FISHING, GAME 

VIEWING, BIRDING AND MORE 

ON THE BANKS OF THE CHOBE 

RIVER AT ICHINGO CHOBE RIVER 

LODGE 

The scenic Chobe River region is 

world-renowned as one of Africa’s 

best fly-fishing destinations. And a 

stay on one of the three Chobe 

Princesses or at Ichingo Chobe 

River Lodge is the best way to 

experience it. Catch everything 

from African pike, tilapia, catfish 

and yellowfish to the legendary 

Tigerfish on your unforgettable 

river safari. 

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge offers 

the ideal location to experience all 

that the Chobe has to offer with the 

added benefit of being on the 

Namibian side of the river. Quieter, 

more secluded and personalised 

the lodge is ideal for families, 

couples or groups. 

Our eight large air-conditioned 

Meru safari tents give you all the 

excitement of a safari adventure in 

Africa each with an en-suite 

bathroom and private balcony. 

There is also one family tent 

available which is a main tent with a 

connecting smaller children’s tent 

to offer parents peace of mind. 

The lounge, bar and open air-dining 

room set above the flowing waters 

of the Chobe River provide the 

ultimate in comfort allowing you to 

completely unwind and enjoy the 

sights and sounds of a true African 

river safari experience. 

Nestled on Impalila Island in 

Namibia, Ichingo Chobe River 

Lodge is a tented lodge surrounded 

by breathtaking scenery, abundant 

wildlife, birdlife and ideal fishing 

conditions. 



features eight large air-conditioned 

Meru safari tents set on a secluded 

island beneath a riverine canopy on 

the banks of the Chobe River. Step 

out on to your own private balcony 

to listen to the rapids, relax on your 

sumptuous bed and then head to 

the dining room or bar for 

something delicious to eat or drink. 

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge is also 

perfect for families and welcomes 

children of all ages. 

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge offers a 

2 or 3 night itinerary which includes 

a variety of activities for you to 

experience during your stay. These 

include game viewing by boat along 

the banks of the Chobe National 

Park, an excursion through the 

beautiful Kasai Channel to see the 

mighty Zambezi River and a guided 

walk on Impalila Island to visit our 

famous ancient Baobab tree. 

Fishing for the legendary Tigerfish 

is also a great activity option. 

Because of its unique geographic 

location, the game viewing and 

birdwatching in and around Ichingo 

Chobe River Lodge is second to 

none. Plus, you can get up close 

and personal with the wildlife as 

you glide towards them silently on 

the tender boats. 


67

AFRICA 

The lodge’s location is particularly 

well known for its high quality 

fishing in over 100kms of the Chobe 

and Zambezi Rivers, where you can 

hook a tiger fish, bream and several 

other fresh water species. 

At the same time, because you’re in 

a tent you won’t lose that feeling of 

being in the thick of the African 

bush, as you listen to the sounds of 

the Chobe River flowing past you 

and the call of fish eagles in the 

distance. 

Our safari tents are all airconditioned, 

so you get welcome 

respite from the African heat which 

means you can truly relax and 

unwind. Our bathrooms have all 

been renovated with new floors, 

vanities, shower heads and taps so 

you don’t have to miss out on 

modern luxuries while you’re on 

safari. 

Experience all the 

chobe has to offer 

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge offers a 

variety of activities for you to 

experience during your stay which 

guests can select upon check-in. A 

vehicle based game drive in the 

Chobe National Park on the day of 

departure is also included in the 

itinerary. 

Activities On Offer 

Elephant Bay Guided Game 

Viewing is an evening tender boat 

activity into the Chobe National 

Park and Caprivi Wetland areas, to 

the aptly named Elephant Bay. This 

natural harbour is away from the 

very busy river sections and allows 

you to enjoy the magnificent Chobe 

Sunset with the possibility of 

watching elephants playing and 

swimming in the Chobe River. 


Zambezi River Excursion is an 

absolute must. The Kasai Channel 

is a small, beautiful waterway that is 

filled with a huge variety of birds, the 

occasional hippo and wonderful 

views of the Caprivi floodplains. It 

meanders from the Chobe River, 

ending at the majestic Zambezi 

River which is an iconic African 

river. 

Guided Fishing (catch and release 

basis) in over 100kms of the Chobe 

and Zambezi Rivers for tiger fish, 

bream and several other fresh 

water species. The tiger fish is 

Africas great river sport fish and 

provides thrilling fun for those 

looking for an adrenaline surge. It is 

also a great excuse to spend a few 

hours peacefully on the waterways 

watching the birds, hippos and 

crocs at play. All fishing equipment 

(conventional and fly), bait and 

fishing licences are supplied. 

Guided Walks on Impalila 

Island give you an insight into the 

life of local inhabitants, introduce 

you to the stark beauty of the area 

and amaze you with the enormity of 

the Baobab trees. The end point of 

the walk is to an ancient (over 2000 

years old) Baobab tree which the 

more energetic can climb to see 

where Namibia, Zambia, Botswana 

and Zimbabwe meet, and the great 

Chobe and Zambezi Rivers 

converge. You will then be driven by 

vehicle back to the lodge. 


69

AFRICA 

The Fishing 

The legendary Tigerfish is well known 

for being one of the most thrilling 

challenges for any fly fisher. 

Renowned for their speed and 

strength, these ferocious predators 

never fail to put up a spectacular fight. 

But what exactly does it take to catch 

these powerful prey? We spoke to 

Jonathan Boulton from Mavungana 

Flyfishing, who shared some of the 

expert insights he’s learned over 25 

years of fishing the waters of the great 

Chobe River region. 

When is the best season for a 

Tigerfishing safari? 

While it’s true that Tigerfish can be 

caught throughout the year, I’ve 

found that late May through 

September have the best conditions. 

The water is clear and starts to warm 

up just after winter. 


As water recedes back off the 

floodplains it causes baitfish to be 

drawn back into the main channel, 

providing the perfect hunting ground 

for Tigerfish. 

Is there a preferred time of day to go 

Tigerfishing? 

Absolutely. We call it the Golden Hour, 

just before and after sunset and 

sunrise. Tigerfish are opportunists 

and hunt using the element of surprise 

in low light. Tigerfish can hunt their 

prey far more effectively in the low 

light. 

What else do you take into 

consideration before planning a trip? 

At Mavungana Flyfishing, we only 

book trips during a new moon. 

Tigerfish struggle to hunt in complete 

darkness, so when there’s no light 

from the moon they’re less likely to 

catch any prey.

In the morning when the sun starts to 

rise, they’re ravenous and readily 

attack anything that looks like prey. 

Where are some of the best places to 

go Tigerfishing in the Chobe River 

region? 

It depends on the season, but there 

are a few hot spots I’ve discovered 

over the years. In May and June, when 

the water levels are high, the main 

Zambezi is a very active area for 

Tigerfish. I often head upstream for 

Golden Pond and Jojo’s Village. 

Alternatively, in August, the water 

levels in the Kasai Channel get very 

low, and the mini Barbel run begins. 

Barbel hunt in packs and prey on 

baitfish hiding beneath the papyrus 

reeds. The Tigerfish take the 

opportunity to follow the run and feast 

on all the leftovers in the Barbels’ 

wake. 

At the same time, water levels just 

south of Impalila Island can be very 

low, and Tigerfish can concentrate 

around rapids south of Ichingo Chobe 

River Lodge where the Kasai and 

Chobe Rivers meet. 

What kind of boats do you use? 

You want a lot of deck space to move 

around freely when you hook the 

Tigerfish. Ichingo Chobe River 

Lodge‘s boats have space for two 

anglers on each boat, and plenty of 

storage room to keep your gear and 

other belongings out of the way. 

Lastly, what’s one of the most 

amazing things you’ve seen on 

your Tigerfishing expeditions? 

What always impresses me is just how 

savage these fish are. I once landed a 

Tigerfish that was cut clean in half by 

one of its own kind driven into a 

feeding frenzy. They’re not known as 

the most voracious freshwater fish for 

nothing. 

... 


71

AFRICA 

Combination Options 

Zambezi Queen or Chobe Princess 

Staying with the Zambezi Queen Collection will be the highlight of your trip to 

Africa, whether you stay on one of our four houseboats or at our tented Ichingo 

Chobe River Lodge. 

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge 

Our suggested combination package includes a stay at the award-winning Victoria Falls 

Safari Lodge which offers guests an unforgettable experience. 

Experience the Big 5 

A stay at Hwange Bush Camp ties in perfectly with a stay on board one of the Chobe 

Princess houseboats or Ichingo Chobe River Lodge within the Zambezi Queen 

Collection. 

Special rates on request - it depends on your individual travel plans. We will help you to 

organize your stay to explore the beautiful African destinations you wish. 

As a guest on the Zambezi Queen, you’ll enjoy a truly unique and luxurious river safari 

holiday in complete comfort and elegance. We offer two-night and three-night itineraries 

that depart every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. 


SEASON 

LOW SEASON: December - Februar 

HIGH SEASON: March - November 


RATES 

Rates are per person sharing. Departs for 2 

nights or a 3 night stay. 

LOW SEASON: December to Februar 

aprox. USD 324 per person per night (sharing) 

HIGH SEASON: March to November 

aprox. USD 350 per person per night (sharing) 



The Mantis Collection. 

Zambezi Queen Collection. 

1st Floor Westlake Lifestyle centre 

Westlake, Cape Town 

Kirsty Coetzee -Sales Managerkirsty@zqcollection.com 

Phone: +27 21 715 2412 

51 73

MEMBERSHIP FOR FLYFISHERS 

It is really easy to become a member in our club. 

There is no entry regulations or any committee you have to pass and 

every active FFTC Member enjoys the same privileges. 

We invite every FlyFisher in the world to be a part of the fastest 

growing FlyFisher Community worldwide. 

You love to travel for flyfishing - perfect - we do too! 

What we are not! 

F F T C 


• We are not a travel agency for a FlyFisher 

• We are not a poor directory page with tons of links 

• We are not a local Club 

• We are not a snobbish Club 

• We are not a new tackle shop or outfitter 

• We are not a new competitor to any local FlyFisher Club, established tackle 

shop or specialized travel agency for FlyFishers 

• We are not a portal website with blinking advertising banners 

What benefits can you expect? 

est. 2017 

• Unlimited and free access to the FFTC Members Area 

• Membership available for 1, 3 or 5 years 

• Your personalized Member Card 

• Vouchers from 25 USD up to 75 USD of single value exclusively for FFTC 

Members from Guides & Destinations all over the world 

• Special offers exclusively for FFTC Members up to 15% OFF of the 

regular rates 

• The FFTC Newsletter 

• Exclusive access 'members only' section at FFTC Members Area 


F F T C 


est. 2017 

Your Membership contains: 

• 1 Year Membership (12 month) 

• Unlimited access to the FFTC.club Members Area 

• All privileges of FFTC.club Membership 

• Membership ends automatically after the chosen period 

(valid date on your FFTC Member Card) 

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75

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FREE ENGRAVING* 

*USING CODE FFTC2020FOCENGRAVE Expiry 31/3 2021

P 

roduct 

by 

review 

Alexander Dachlauer 

There is a wide range of 

products from different 

brands for every single 

gear 

Some products and brands are wellknown 

others are not. You can get the 

best idea about the (new) product not 

only from personal experience but 

also from a detailed product review. 

You can find such reviews in editorial 

sections of fly fishing magazines or on 

YouTube. Most of them are published 

shortly after the launch of a new 

product, in the very beginning of the 

active promotion period. “Long-term” 

reviews are seldom and if you find 

them, then they will only cover one 

year of product use. Of course “longterm” 

reviews are often more helpful, 

especially in regards to durability of 

the product. 

First hands-on reviews are often 

driven by brand’s marketing using 

their own product descriptions that 

deliver a limited first impression. 

Talking about fly rods, you will 

definitely find reviews for well-known 

brands and their top, mid-price and 

beginner rods. But you can rarely 

come across reviews for “exotic” or 

“specific” rod series, as well as for rod 

series from less known brands. 

This editorial section 

provides you real long-term 

product review (at least two 

seasons and more). Of 

course only for products still 

available to buy. 

So, what do I use or how I will name it: 

my personal long-time experience in 

praxis with… 


77

product review 

by Alexander Dachlauer 

Douglas Outdoors - 

Upstream Lightweight 8.8“ 

4wt - 4 pieces Fly Rod. 

Some seasons ago. I participated in a 

local dealer fly fishing event in 2017. 

This was the first time I got my hands 

on this interesting and at that time new 

rod series from Douglas Outdoors, 

Inc.. This young industry brand was 

founded in 2014 and became wellknown 

for a wider audience in 2016 

thanks to its highly recognized 

Douglas Sky rod series. The Douglas 

Sky won the legendary 6wt shootout 

from Yellowstone Anglers, published 

online in 2016. By the way I guess this 

is the one and only fly rod and fly reel 

test address with nearly scientific 

measurements to all criteria. 

George Anderson, his son and 

rotating staff from Yellowstone 

Anglers are always doing an amazing 

job during these helpful shootouts. 

Everything is done highly professional 

with attention to any detail. 

But let’s get back to the Douglas 

Upstream and the fly fishing event I 

visited. Of course I paid attention to 

these rods weeks before in a window 

display because of the eye-catching 

tiny slim and in case of the 6 piece rods 

very short rod tubes. But on the day of 

the event I took one of these models - 

the 4wt, 4 pieces 8.8“ - to the casting 

green for the first time. 

There wasn’t a fitting reel and line 

available so I went to my car and put 

my own reel on (Orvis CFO II spooled with a Rio 

Gold 4wt line I normally fished on my SAGE SLT, 8.0/4wt). 

78

I cast all day long with this rod and 

then handed it over to other visitors 

always keeping an eye on it because 

of my own line & reel. The rod always 

found its way back to me and I cast it 

actively and well concentrated with a 

lot of small talk in between just for fun. 

At the end of the show, at the time 

when I rigged the rod down I 

immediately understood that I 

wouldn’t give it away anymore. 

This is when I bought my first Douglas 

Outdoors Upstream fly rod. And I do 

not regret this spontaneous decision 

due to the rod’s features. 

"I was so impressed from the 

first cast on. I really feel the 

difference to all other modern 

graphite fly rods." 

I will of course explain to you, what the 

major difference is. 

First of all the rod has an incredibly 

light weight (1.72 oz / 49 gram) and 

the blank gives you such a straight 

feedback of every single movement. 

"No matter if you accelerate or 

slow down your cast. No 

matter if you are a beginner or 

an expert." 

It is a full flex rod with a kind of a 

feeling of a traditional bamboo. Or 

is it more of the feeling of an old 

fiberglass from the 1970th? 

This is difficult to answer. 

"I guess you will find the soul of 

both technologies in this fly rod." 

But it is made of the most up-todate 

material - graphite. 

What makes this rod 

so special? 

My opinion is that this rod combines 

the best of all three worlds of 

materials. The full flex of a split-cane 

rod. The elastic power and durability 

of an old fiberglass rod and finally the 

recovering speed and light weight of a 

modern graphite fly rod. Simply the 

best of all technologies in one single 

fly rod model. Normally when it comes 

to testing a fly rod everything is about 

performance and of course this is an 

important criterion. But there is one 

often forgotten and simply underrated 

criterion - the fun-to-fish factor. 

The Douglas Outdoors Upstream 

series is not a casting machine for 

long distances over 70 feet like other 

rods and you won’t cast this rod into 

the backing line. Certainly not. This is 

not what this rod is made for. We 

won’t compare this rod with top 

models like the G-Loomis NRX, or a 

Scot Radian, a Hardy Zephrus, Orvis 

Helios or any other top-notch rods 

from other brands. And not even with 

the Sky from Douglas itself, which is 

also a high-end top rod. No, of course 

we won’t compare the Upstream with 

this kind of rods and also their price 

ranges. All of them are modern fast 

action rods. The Upstream rod 

slows you down and it is presenting 

the fly very, very delicate not only in 

closer ranges. More than other midaction 

rod series will do. Up to 30 feet 

you won’t find any other rod doing 

this range so easily perfect. You 

cast without any effort with an always 

helpful, sensitive feedback from the 

blank in the most important trout 

distance up to 45 feet. 


79



This action is made for extra long 

leaders and fine tippets. Everything 

is possible because of its sensitivity 

and flexibility. You won’t even loose a 

fish by broken tippets. If you now think 

this rod is only made for small streams 

to cast only dry flies or light nymphs on 

short distances, you will be surprised. 

This is definitely not the case. 

You can cast nearly everything with 

this rod up to slightly bigger and 

heavy trout streamers. Open the 

loop and you can cast everything 

effortless usual for trout fishing with 

much fun. Please remember that I’m 

talking about the 4wt 8.8 feet rod 

model. 

The series contains 8 models starting 

from 2wt up to 4 wt., 2 piece rods up 

to 6 pieces (!!) models made for 

travelers, backpackers or urban fly 

fishers using public traffic to reach the 

down-town fishing spot in the 

evening. The rods have an incredibly 

light weight starting from 1.13 oz up to 

1.72 oz and the pricing is affordable. 

For more details please check the 

Douglas Outdoors website. 

Let’s talk about the swing weight, 

which is also an important point about 

the feeling. Yes, any fast action or stiff 

rod offers a different feeling but if you 

imagine that this rod feels like a 

fiberglass and you get the full-flex 

features of a bamboo rod you will be 

surprised that the swing-weight of the 

Upstream is totally different to these 

old materials. 

The swing-weight seems to be 

covered by the counter-weight of the 

reel, and completely eliminated by the 

graphite composite, which provides 

the high recovery speed and the 

overall light weight of the rod. This is 

what makes this fly rod series so 

unique and so special. 

For the perfect balance I personally 

choose a Sage 4230 fly reel. By the 

way a great looking, large arbor and a 

very good sealed trout reel with a high 

durability. I’m a friend of in-weight 

lines. That means I prefer to use a 4wt 

line on a 4wt rod. After a long search in 

the mass of fly lines I always end up 

using the Rio Gold for trout settings, 

which is to be honest a little bit 

overweighted from the AFTMA. But I 

think that besides SA MPX the Rio 

Gold (not the intouch with lower 

stretch - the traditional one) is one of 

the best all-round fly lines for trout 

fishing in the market. We are not 

talking about any special use fly lines. 

Anyway this SAGE reel balanced my 

rod perfectly. The platinum model 

also perfectly fits the color of the 

traditional down locking reel seat. The 

former reel I used, the Orvis CFO, was 

also doing this very well but I prefer the 

large arbor on fast waters if I use the 

rod as my every day rod. In 

combination with the right fly line it 

is an effortless casting dream. 

No matter if you do air or water casts 

or mendings. The rod has unexpected 

lifting power and you can also reach 

impressive distances with roll-casts. 

Simply fun to fish. 

You enjoy fishing by slowing down 

and get the typical direct feeling of 

casting a split-cane rod. Every 

mending is very easy as it can be like 

any other casting action with the rod. 

No matter if you hook a small or bigger 

fish. You get the feedback directly and 

even a 2inch trout is feeling fighting on 

this sensitive stick. Pure fun for 

casting und catching most any sizes of 

fish. 

With the Douglas Upstream you get 

all these great features combined 

in one single modern fly rod series. 


I fished this rod for 4 seasons 

now and I have to tell you that 

this is the my favorite trout 

rod in case of fun-to-fish fact 

I ever had cast in my life. 

I guess there is no other rod in 

the market which combines all 

these great features of the three 

different worlds of rod materials 

in one single rod. 

The combination of these 

features creates an 

unbeatable fun-to-fish rod 

series for trouts. 

Every single fly fisher, whom I 

handed this rod over for some 

casts or fishing, was surprised 

about this rod feeling and totally 

agreed with me that this is the 

rod for fun-to-fish. 

Everything in regular troutdistances 

goes very easy, 

delicate and accurate. Starting 

from tiny, tiny dry flies up to 

heavy trout streamers. The 

casting makes always fun. 

The durability, flexibility and the 

recovery speed of the blank is 

unmatched. Please feel free to 

get your hands on it and maybe 

you will also get afire with this 

rod series like I did. 

In the same year I bought a 

second Douglas Outdoors 

Upstream Lightweight. 

A 8.0 feet 2wt rod for smaller 

spring creeks in the alps. 

At the end of the last season 

I caught a 22 inch hard fighting 

Rainbow trout with my 4wt 

Upstream fly rod. There was no 

problem to handle this proper 

fish in the middle of a fast 

current in my home river ISAR in 

the front of the Bavarian Alps. 


81



At the end I want you to know that I do not get paid for this article. Douglas 

Outdoors has no advertisements in this magazine. This is my own opinion and 

experience with this fantastic little fly rod. By the way one more subjective opinion. 

I love the traditional design of the rod and downlocking reel seat made completely of cork 

and the very outstanding color of the blank. It’s something I will call light olive. Matched 

great with the sage and yellow color of the Rio Gold. So, your eyes won’t get nervous. 

Anyway looks great. 

All craftsmanship including the transparent wraps around the rings are done very 

accurately. The rod comes with a pretty cool and remarkable tiny diameter aluminium rod 

tube and a branded rod sock in green with separate spaces for each rod section. In 4 

seasons I never had to reset rod sections. Everything sits perfect after a long day 

of casting and catching fish. A great package with a lifetime warranty for original 

owners for an affordable price for an outstanding rod series. And please don’t forget: 

Fun-to-fish is unpayable. 

Product review written by Alexander Dachlauer, Lake Starnberg, DE © 2017-2020 all photos of this product 

review done by Alexander Dachlauer on normal fishing siutations. No extra photo-shooting. 


JUNGLE BLUES BOOK 

The Best Fly Fishing 

Book in Years 

Advertisement 

Is called “Jungle Blues” and 

it’s written by Stu Tripney, 

I’ve read the book, and I 

think it’s some of the most 

compelling “adventure 

angling” writing out there— 

and that’s been my bailiwick 

for years. 

Angling trade magazine - 

May19/2019 

KIRK DEETER- EDITOR 

“I tried to ask the shopkeeper what the fish was called and he 

tore the corner off a cardboard box and wrote in English, ‘Pla 

Chado’ – the giant snake-headed fish.” 

From his rural home in the South Island of New Zealand, selfprofessed 

fly-fishing geek Stu Tripney designs flies and runs the 

New Zealand Fly Fishing School. But every now and then, a fish 

swims into his dreams … 

Jungle Blues is Stu’s first 

travel memoir, recounting his 

strange adventures while 

living in the jungles of 

Malaysia. A story about the 

environment, human nature 

and strange friends, this 

hilarious tale will appeal to 

anyone who loves the thrill of 

travel and adventure. 

Shop NOW 

10% discount 

with #jungleblues code.

AUSTRALIA 

A 

ustralia 

Ningaloo Reef 

The Ningaloo Reef - Sight Fishing 

at it´s Best 

The map of Australia shows a 

peninsula extending northward from 

its northwest corner. 

This approximately 75 mile long 

peninsula is known as the North West 

Cape and is home to the town of 

Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef. 

The spectacularly clear waters of the 

Indian Ocean lap upon the shoreline 

of this isolated and remote outback 

desert coastline. 

The rich marine life here has recently 

made this area a popular tourism 

destination. Indeed, the marine life of 

the Ningaloo Reef is becoming world 

famous and, in our experience, is only 

rivaled by the Seychelles pristine 

atolls of Alphonse and St. Francois. 

Coincidently, an equally outstanding 

shallow water fishery has been 

discovered headlined by Indo-Pacific 

Permit, Bonefish, Giant Trevally, and 

Golden Trevally. 


www.fftc.club 71 85

AUSTRALIA 



87

AUSTRALIA 

This fishery has two distinctly 

different aspects. 

On the western coast of the cape, are 

the crystal clear, tourquiose waters of 

the Indian Ocean and the Ningaloo 

Reef. On the eastern side, is the 

Exmouth Gulf, a totally different 

marine environment. The waters on 

both sides of the cape provide an 

outstanding number of shallow water, 

sight casting opportunities. It's 

always a good idea to split the days 

fishing equally between both sides of 

the cape. 

How to get there? 

Overall, itinerary planning for 

Australia is a personalized process 

because of the options, budgetary 

considerations, and different 

approaches. 

It depends where you coming from. If 

you come from Europe or USA or from 

Australia itself, and if you like to make 

a trip combination of a couple holiday 

with a stop over at the Fiji Islands or 

fishing only. 

A trip to Australia Ningaloo Reef is 

also a great combo tie-in with NZ. 

Both in same part of the world so you 

maximize your travel time 

and budget. 

If you have the time, you can combine 

the world class trophy trout stalking in 

NZ crystalline streams and rivers with 

some of the best saltwater fishing on 

the planet. It's a good idea to spend 

time in NZ in combination on your 

personal trip. 

A couple’s itinerary is for the Ningaloo 

Reef also attractive because of the 

maritime non-fishing activities. 

Accommodations range varies. For 

example the Exmouth Beach Resort. 

The Ningaloo Reef offers a worldclass 

saltwater fishery and is every 

trip worth! 


The 

E 

xmouth 

Beach Resort 


Fly Fishing Adventures 

Don Muelrath 

Phone: 888-347-4896 

001-707-254-8684 (outside USA) 

Fax: 001-707-255-3812 

E-mail: flyfish@napanet.net 



89

BAHAMAS 

B 

ahamas 

Crooked Island and Acklins 

With nearly 50000 acres of flats, the islands of the Bahamas have the 

largest bonefishing area in the world. 

These great fish, often sizeable, thrive on the nutrients produced by one of the richest 

environments of our planet, the flats and mangrove areas are irrigated on a daily basis 

by the rich waters of the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico, flowing along and between the 

700 islands and 2500 cays. 



77 91

BAHAMAS 

78 92 contact@fftc.club


93

BAHAMAS 

80 78 94 contact@fftc.club


81 95

BAHAMAS 

The Target Species 

BONEFISH 

It’s our bread- and butter fish, found 

on almost every flat in the area and 

fished for from a boat or simply 

wading the hard-bottomed flats and 

lagoons. The average size will be in 

the 3- to 4-pound range, yet bigger 

specimen of 5- to 7- lbs are caught 

regularly. Double-digit fish are a 

possibility, the island record being a 

17,6 lbs whopper!! 

Fly fishing opportunities are endless. 

Besides busy New Providence and its 

capital Nassau and Grand Bahama 

Island, the Out Islands as they are also 

called, are only sparsely populated. 

You will discover two islands that are 

probably among the most pristine and 

least known, Crooked Island and Acklins. 

These two islands form a vast atoll with a 

circumference of just over 140 miles. 

Located in the southeastern portion of 

the Bahamas, the “Bight of Acklins” and 

its huge lagoon are encompassed by 

Crooked Island, Acklins and Long Cay, 

totaling some 108 square miles! The 

islands are located less than 60 miles 

from the Haitian and Cuban coastlines, 

respectively… Crooked Island with its 

280 inhabitants is quite, “out of the way” 

and tranquil place. 

TARPON 

While the Bahmas are not a tarpon 

destination per se, we do have a 

population of resident fish, in baby 

sizes of 10 to 30 lbs, all year long, 

while some areas will have migratory 

fish in larger sizes from 40 to 100 

pounds, notably in the turtle sound 

lagoon from may to october. 

Nature is particularly pristine and 

beautiful. On many occasions will you be 

able to spot pink flamingos on the flats. 

Landing at Crooked Island is a superb 

and impressive experience, as the water 

depth of the huge lagoon does not 

exceed 10 feet so the vistas are truly 

breathtaking. 


TRIGGERFISH 

Sometimes called the “poor man’s permit”, they remain a very interesting species to 

fish for with fly tackle: the triggerfish are wary yet will readily eat a bonefish shrimp or 

a small crab fly while tailing on the flats. They are a great catch and definitely great 

practice for permit fishing! 

BARRACUDA 

Barracuda are numerous on the flats and often big. We advise our customers to always 

keep a 10-weight rod rigged up and ready in the boat. ‘cudas can also be caught with 

spin gear on stick baits or poppers. 

JACKS 

We have several interesting, hard-fighting jack subspecies at hand to keep fly and spin 

anglers happy; horse eye jacks, yellow jacks, bar jacks as well as pompano will keep 

light tackle anglers amused. 

SHARKS 

Sharks might not be on everyone’s list yet they are superb fighters on fly and spin 

tackle. You will find a very health shark population, ranging from smaller species (20 

lbs) to huge monsters (several hundred pounds) in and around the lagoon and we will 

organize specialized shark-fishing trips upon request. Tigers, lemons, silkies, 

hammerheads, gray reef sharks… everything is possible! 


97

BAHAMAS 

The Lodge 

Located right on a white sandy beach, the 

Crooked Island and Acklins Trophy 

Lodge is very nice and comfortable. Run 

by a very friendly couple, the lodge has 5 

large air-conditioned double rooms with 

bathroom and bath tub, sitting area, 

refrigerator, Wifi, dresser, chest, etc… 

Meals will be taken at the bar/restaurant 

where cold beers will welcome thirsty 

anglers, returning from the flats. Food is 

varied with local specialties like a very 

tasty conch salad. It is a small, quiet and 

private lodge, away from large scale 

tourism. No crowds will be encountered 

at this superb atoll! 

Once you leave Nassau, you will soon be 

landing at our vast atoll which is over 140 

miles in diameter. You may not realize it, 

but you have just discovered a very 

remote location that is largely isolated, 

time-forgotten and magnificent. 

Just to give you an idea about its size: 

you could fit the better part of all of 

Cuba’s shallow-water fishing areas 

into the lagoon. All this but without the 

same amount of fishing pressure! 

Miles after square mile of pristine 

sand or coral flats, surrounded by 

crystal clear waters which are some of 

the clearest in world. 

The 280 inhabitants of Crooked Island 

live in only two or three tranquil and 

peaceful villages, typical for the area. 

Three consecutive cars following 

each other on the road are considered 

a traffic jam here! 

The lodge gives access to a large part 

of the vast lagoon where colonies of 

pink flamingos are breeding in 

season. 


RATES 

One week shared skiff, guide and 

room: USD 3,490 

Single angler per boat: USD 1,500 

supplement 

SEASON 

This saltwater destination can be visited all year 

round; High season is from November to August. 




The lodge gives access to a large part of 

the vast lagoon where colonies of pink 

flamingos are breeding in season. Many 

areas are a snorkeler’s heaven; beachgoers 

will fall in love with the fine sand and 

many a coral cave is waiting to be 

discovered in the hills. There are quite a 

few blue holes in the lagoon, some of 

which are connected to the open ocean, 

miles away! 






Nernstweg 5 


phone: +49 1778086466 


web: www.pukka-destinations.com 

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MEXICO 

exico 

Punta Allen Fishing Club 

MFly Fishing in the world-famous Ascension Bay 



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Punta Allen Fishing Club is located about 50m from the beach. 

"Mi casa es tu casa" is lived here par excellence and leads to a cozy atmosphere with a high 

feel-good factor. It has 5 rooms for guests and a large lounge where there is a bar and 

where guests have their meals. 

The managers themselves are avid saltwater fly fishermen, the lodge serves 

multicultural cuisine (including Mexican specialties). 

From November to March the lodge can accommodate 8 guests (3 double and 2 

single), from April to July for 10 guests (3DZ, 2EZ and a suite with space for 2 fishermen 

or one family). 

Two anglers share a guide and a boat (panga); The Pangas are about 6m long, but 

despite their size they are very well suited for fly fishing from the boat. In front there is 

a big casting platform for the angler. All boats have reliable engines, coolers, rod 

holders, etc. on board. The first flats are accessible about 10 minutes from the lodge. 

Naturally, wading opportunities also exist. 


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The Pangas are about 6m long 


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SEASON 

The season is year-round (except August- 

October). Permit, Bonefish, and Tarpon as 

well as Snook, Jacks, Barracudas, Ladyfish 

and Snapper are catching throughout the 

season. 

RATES 

4 nights / 3 days fishing - shared guide 

and room: USD 1.980 

7 nights / 6 days fishing - shared guide 

and room: USD 3.480 









Nernstweg 5 


phone: +49 1778086466 


web: www.pukka-destinations.com

VIDEOTHEK 

selected & written by Alexander Dachlauer 

F 

The healing power of Fly Fishing 

ly fishing life 

"Common Lines" - a short film from Jonathan Conti & Chad Case 

There is no doubt about it. Fly fishing is more than a sport. This short film 

shows us a great example of the healing power of fly fishing. Fly fishing connects 

people in a unique way. My guide Julian from my trip to Patagonia in 2019 said 

a remarkable thing to me: Fly Fishing makes friends! And of course this is 

absolutely true! 

Please take your time to watch this great short movie about different aspects of 

fly fishing in the beautiful scenery of USA, Montana. By the way, Jon (one of 

the film makers) told me in July 2020 that he met Jake (the marine from the film) 

only one week ago in Boise, Idaho - he is still fishing and stays well. These are 

the good stories of life. 


107

VIDEOTHEK 

stonia 

EEstfly Guiding Service 

pain 

SRio Tormes 


VIDEOTHEK 

C orrientes 


laska 

AAlaska Trophy Adventures Lodge 


109

VIDEOTHEK 

B 

razil 

Amazon Roosevelt Lodge 

KIcha River Camp 

amchatka 


VIDEOTHEK 

N 

amibia 


A 

ustralia 

Ningaloo Reef 


111

VIDEOTHEK 

B 

ahamas 

Crooked Island and Acklins 

M 

exico 

Punta Allen Fishing Club 


Members only - service 

We keep working on the content of our FFTC members area 

and additional service portfolio. Our goal is to get you 

inspired for your next fly fishing trip. But after you made your 

choice, you need to organize your travel to the destination 

you chose. 

We offer a great full service solution that allows you to 

book domestic or international flights including additional 

hotels before and after your fishing holidays - rental cars and 

latest we added a booking engine for FERRIES as well. All 

important travel options in one place. No need to leave the 

FFTC members area. 

smart applications for 

direct booking 

FLIGHTS | HOTELS | RENTAL CARS | FERRIES

F F T C . c l u b 

e s t . 2 0 1 7 

T h e F l y F i s h e r T r a v e l l e r C l u b - w o r l d w i d e 

Get inspired for your next trip! 

DISCOVER INTERACTIVE 

℗© all rights reserved by FFTC.club - copyright 2020! 

© photograph AD - Patagonia, Argentina - 2019! 

p o w e r e d 

a n d a n t e m e d i a D I G I T A L E N T E R T A I N M E N T C L G 

b y

Fly Fishing destinations worldwide - FFTC.club Magazine issue II-2020

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