How to Fish for African Cichlids

Fishing for African cichlids is very difficult because they are mainly found in three lakes in the world. All of those lakes are found in Africa, and traveling to these areas can be a challenge. There are many other species of cichlids in other locations that are more accessible and easier to fish for.

Things You'll Need

  • Passport
  • Fishing pole
  • Bait
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Instructions

    • 1

      Travel to one of the three lakes in Africa that contain African cichlids. They are mostly found in the freshwater lakes of Lake Malawi, Lake Tanginika and Lake Victoria. Lake Malawi is in east central Africa and is home to 600 different species of cichlids. Lake Tanginika is in east central Africa and hosts over 200 species of African cichlids, and Lake Victoria is in central Africa.

    • 2

      Take the right equipment , including a fly fishing rod or a traditional rod. African cichlids do not reach enormous sizes, so lighter test line will do. Most African cichlids will eat large amounts of food in the wild including insects, worms and other types of fish. Mealworms, earthworms cut in to small pieces, crickets and other insects are the perfect bait for cichlid fishing.

    • 3

      Try artificial lures and fly baits that are designed to look like worms or insects. Cast out your worms or other bait and try different techniques to catch different types of cichlids.

    • 4

      Hire a guide to show you where fish are being caught on these African lakes. Guides will not only be able to show you the right equipment and bait, but they can also explain the safety procedures that need to be followed. Guides will also know all the rules and regulations that need to be followed.

    • 5

      Fish different species of cichlids closer to home. Oscar and Mayan cichlid can be found in Mexico, South America and around Florida. They were introduced to Florida to fight off other species of fish and can reach weights of 10 lbs. These fish can be caught with simple fly baits, and guided fishing tours can take you to the best cichlid fishing locations.