Fly fishing in Lesotho

Semonkong Lodge is a bucket-list destination for any serious fisherman, with the chance to catch a 10-pound (4.5kg) wild brown trout in a natural river. Stocked in the mid-1950s, today Maletsunyane River has a strong population of brown and rainbow trout that rivals those in the best trophy rivers around the world. This is all thanks to ample water flow, abundant food and minimal fishing pressure due to our catch-and-release policy. 

Much like any ‘fishing lodge’ (though we’re so much more than that with a multitude of other activities), we’re located right on the banks of the Maletsunyane River, with brown trout fishing experiences upstream and the chance to hook a rainbow trout or an endemic yellow fish downstream. Seasoned anglers challenge themselves to a so-called ‘grand slam’ of catching all three wild river species during a multi-day fishing trip that we can tailor-make.

Our head guide, Baphuthi Makafane, has been sharing his extensive knowledge of Maletsunyane trout with guests since 2013, helping them master the art of fly fishing no matter their level of experience. His expertise lies in matching a variety of nymphs and streamers, that he ties himself, to the fish’s behaviour, especially during prime feeding times at dawn (5-10am) and dusk (3-7pm). If you spend enough time with Baphuthi, he might share that he learned how to fly fish in the waters at Semonkong Lodge alongside His Majesty Lestie III. A few years later, he had the honour of teaching the King’s son and two nephews how to cast their rods too. 

Fly fishing in the Maletsunyane River (day trips)

During a stay at Semonkong Lodge, you can fish the Maletsunyane River above the waterfall for brown trout. Take a fly fishing guide and hike (or abseil) to the bottom of Maletsunyane Waterfall where you can cast a line for rainbow trout. The strenuous, 45-minute hike out of the gorge is worth the experience.

Overnight fly-fishing expeditions in Lesotho

Semonkong Lodge organises four- to six-day guided fishing expeditions into Maletsunyane gorge at makeshift camp sites along the water’s edge. Our guides handle every detail – from packing your fishing and camping equipment onto pack horses (so that you only carry your day pack) to setting up and dismantling camp, and preparing your meals. This leaves you to cast your line for brown trout, rainbow trout and yellow fish between grabbing chilled beers from the water.

Once you’ve descended into the gorge, you’ll experience water’s immense power as it cascades creating dancing plumes of mist that give rise to Semonkong’s name as ‘The Place of Smoke’. Depending on the weather and the water levels, it’s possible to fish right up to the base of the Maletsunyane Falls.

As camp moves along the length of the river each day, you’ll witness the geology and vegetation morph behind every bend. Keep a look out for some of Lesotho’s 250-odd bird species, especially Bearded and Cape Vultures nesting in the cliffs overhead, the ground woodpecker, and southern bald ibis. 

Because this trip is physically demanding, it’s limited to physically fit fishermen. Get in touch for a full itinerary and comprehensive packing list. 

Watch this video about our overnight fly fishing expeditions. 

What you need to know about fly fishing in Lesotho

Only fly-fishing is permitted, on a catch-and release basis. 

Trout season is closed from 01 May to 31 August. 

Semonkong Lodge hires fishing equipment: LSL220/rod/day. Wet and dry flies are available at an additional cost.

Fly-fishing permit fee: LSL240/person/day (children under 12 years old are free). The permit may only be used by the permit holder and may be acquired from reception at Semonkong Lodge.

The fly-fishing permit fee supports the Maletsunyane River Conservation Fund in partnership with community members who keep the river system clean. The permit also gives each fisherman a local, trained fishing guide from the Semonkong community who will point out some of the best fishing spots in Lesotho and will communicate with the community along the river.

Equipment requirements for fly fishing in Lesotho

Always carry warm clothes and a rain jacket as mountain weather is unpredictable, alongside sunblock, a hat and sunglasses.

Above Maletsunyane Waterfall

• Fly rods in the 3-5wt range are recommended with floating and intermediate lines.
• Make sure you have the following flies in your fly box as they work best in these waters: Zak nymph, Copper John, the Hare’s Ear nymph (GRHE), Flashback Pheasant Tail nymph (PTN) in dark colours in sizes 12-16, black, brown and green weighted Woolly Buggers, Papa Roach in sizes 10-14, RAB, Parachute Adams, and Elk Hair Caddis (EHC) in sizes 14-18.
• Tippet sizes: 3X, 4X and 5X
• A large capacity fishing pack or vest

Below Maletsunyane Waterfall

The trek into and out of the gorge is physically demanding and requires hiking boots, clothes and gear.

In addition to the equipment suggested above, bring black mayfly nymphs in sizes 18-20, as turning over rocks reveals really small nymphs that can be very successful.

• Pack quality wading boots. While tents are provided, you’ll need to bring a sleeping bag, pillow, torch and other technical outdoor equipment.