The fishing season runs from 1 March to 30 November. December, January and February are off limits so breeding can occur without interruption, and tiger fishing is generally considered at its best outside the rainy season, broadly between May and October or November.

Angling is on a strict catch-and-release basis only, and Fisheries Regulations are in force to protect Zambia’s fish stocks. Hippopotamus and crocodile are found in nearly all Zambian waters, so wading is unwise — hippos are highly territorial, very fast and can be extremely aggressive when threatened. First-time visitors are advised to join a fishing lodge or camp rather than attempting a trip independently, which removes any concern about permits and regulations.