01 ·
Lake Malawi/Nkhata Bay
Kampango and Mpasadeep water
Africa · Fishing World Guide
Malawi.
Fishing in Malawi 2026: Permits, Best Spots, Charters & Costs
5
target species
Yes
license needed
Apr–Sep
best season
Scroll
Do you need a license?
License
Yes.
Fishing permit: Local fees vary, often small daily flat rates.
›All license details
- Where to apply?
- At the Department of Fisheries or through local lodges at Lake Malawi.
- Cost
- Fishing permit: Local fees vary, often small daily flat rates.
- Validity
- Day or travel permit
- Available online?
- No
Lake Malawi is home to over 1,000 endemic species. Anglers focus on Kampango (giant catfish) and the famous Chambo (tilapia). Pay attention to local regulations for recreational fishermen.
When to go?
The season at a glance.
Best season
September to April (best conditions for predatory fish in the lakes and rivers).
Where to fish?
The top waters.
02 ·
Cape Maclear
Cichlids and snorkelingUNESCO World Heritage
03 ·
Likoma Island
remote stocks of Kampango and Katundu
04 ·
Shire River
Tigerfish and Catfish in the lower river section
05 ·
Mangochi
Chambo hotspot and central meeting point for anglers
What's biting?
Your target species.
›+3 more species
Kampango (Riesenwels)Mpasa (Lake Salmon)Ncheni
The rules.
Four things you need to know.
Closed seasons
Closed seasons
Strict closed seasons for Lake Malawi (usually Nov 1 to Dec 31) and surrounding waters.
Catch limits
Catch limits
Chambo and other species are subject to strict protection measures for stock conservation.
Prohibited methods
Prohibited methods
Monofilament nets are banned nationwide. Dynamite and poison fishing are strictly prohibited.
Catch & release
Catch & release
Recommended, especially for large Kampango specimens to secure stocks.
What does it cost?
—
License
Small local fees (to be inquired on site).
50-200 USD
Guide per day
50-200 USD/day for boat charters.
30-60 USD
Daily budget
Budget: 30-60 USD (cheap), upscale lodges: 150-350 USD/day.
Bite times
The best fishing times — free.
Best fishing times
·Malawi-13.25°, 34.30°
🎣 Live catches in malawi
1 verified catches
Not enough data (1 catches)
Bite-time forecast appears from 5 catches.
Plan your trip.
Everything in one place.
All the details
The fine print.
License in detail
At the Department of Fisheries or through local lodges at Lake Malawi. — Lake Malawi is home to over 1,000 endemic species. Anglers focus on Kampango (giant catfish) and the famous Chambo (tilapia). Pay attention to local regulations for recreational fishermen.
Rules in detail
In 2026, Malawi is focusing more on sustainable fishing. In regions like Mbenje Island, some stricter local protection rules apply.
Freshwater
Lake Malawi and the Shire River offer the largest freshwater fishing area in Africa.
Saltwater
No access to the sea (landlocked country).
Equipment
Own equipment recommended, as specialized fishing gear is rarely available on site.
Guides
Charter with guide by boat: approx. 50-200 USD/day depending on region and equipment.
Getting there
Flights to Lilongwe; road network connections to the lodges at the lake are available.
Safety
Beware of bilharzia risk; do not wade in stagnant shoreline areas. Malaria prophylaxis is advisable.
Customs & fish export
Visa on arrival possible for many nationalities. Fishing equipment can be imported without problems.
More Countries
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Data not correct?
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All information without guarantee. Always check with the official local authorities. Not legal advice. Last updated: May 21, 2026
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