IGFA Member

The “Zambezi Classic” Family Fishing Competition 2008

The recently concluded Zambezi Classic fishing competition proved to be an enormous success both in terms of family participation as well as the general catch overall. All told there were 32 teams comprising of 50 men, 26 ladies and 32 juniors competing, with 626 fish being brought to the weigh station.

As this is the only species event of its kind in Zambia, it is a true test of the angling skills of the fisherman, and the quantity of fish removed from the river has little or no impact on their numbers or the eco system.

7 of the allowable species were caught, these being:

TIGER FISH – 34

BREAM – 5

CHESSA – 165

NKUPI – 9

CORNISH JACK – 1

SQUEAKER – 239

IMBERI – 173

TOTAL 626

Other species that were caught and witnessed as being released were Vundu, Electric Barbel and Silver Barbel.

This competition is now seen as the premier family competition in Zambia, with huge emphasis placed on juniors by teaching them the skills required and at the same time teaching them to have respect for the river, its surroundings, the wildlife and of course the fish themselves. For what the river, “giveth” it will surely “take away”

Despite the highest river levels in 30 years, the fishing was better than in previous years. The reason behind a more productive catch was discussed at great length into the early hours of each morning along with the other camp banter, and although no conclusion was ever reached, it was comforting to know that the “old hands” had all the answers. Could it have been the waxing Gibbius, the waning Gibbius, the warm nights, cool days, warm days cool nights, dirty water meeting clean water, floating debris, clear water, starving fish, more available food. Perhaps it is all in the bait preparation, which would obviously explain why the largest fish of the competition was caught by a junior. When all is said and done every angler has their own particular method, only the fish is fool enough to fall for it !!

We look forward to your participation next year.

Regards

Lusaka South Country Club