Papua New Guinea Sport Fishing Charters
Wild River Fishing Charter Information

Kokoda Spirit has teamed up with Wild River Fishing Charters to give our Kokoda Trekkers a chance to go Wild River fishing after or before their trek across Kokoda.  We have put the following information together to wet your appetite for your fishing Adventure.

Sport fishing in rivers surrounding Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Day Charters begin with a pick up from your accommodation or within the city limits in an air-conditioned 4-wheel drive, driving either east or west (location to fish will depend on tides and weather conditions) along the picturesque coastal highway of Port Moresby. There are small villages, which line the highway, and there are some excellent views of the Owen Stanley Ranges in the early morning.

We suggest a check of the tides for the day and then either cast/troll the banks or chase bass on live baits. Fly anglers more than welcome – there is plenty of room in most of the rivers to make a good presentation. Rods are 10 weight with fast sink WF and tarpon taper lines.

Fish species:

• New Guineas Black Bass – Pound for pound, the toughest freshwater fish on this planet. Can be caught throughout the year. Best months are from April – November when the dry season is in and the rivers are low and clean. Grows up to 30kgs. We have landed fish up to 20 kilos.
   

• Barramundi – They can be found throughout the year. The average size is 10 – 17lbs. We have caught a number of larger fish hitting 40-50 lbs.
   

• Mangrove Jack – Average sizes 3-4lbs. Best months to fish them is in April – June. Commonly found in the Estuary creeks and river mouths.
   

• Finger Mark Bream – Normally caught at night while bottom fishing.
   

• There other Estuary fish that can be caught such as: Estuary Cods, Giant Trevally, Javelin fish (grunter), catfish etc.

Fishing Grounds:

There are several freshwater rivers in Port Moresby and they all flow into one river basin called Galley Reach. We mainly fish at Galley reach and move to any river on the choice of day depending on tides and water clarity. We also have access to another single river located about another 20 Kilometers from Galley Reach (by road) called the Aroa River. This river is renowned for good numbers of Black Bass and Barramundi. It is best to check the tide times before fishing.

Traveling time to Galley Reach is: 1 hour 15 mins. To the Aroa River it is: 1 hour 30 mins.

Season

Best time to fish the river is from May through to November (Dry season) when the rivers are low & clean. During the wet, the rivers get flooded and dirty making it hard to fish.

Fishing gear:

We normally use a 15-24kg rod (length: 5 foot 7/8 inches). Reel either a ABU 6500C3/ABU 7000 / Calcutta 400 / 700. Most loaded with minimum 40-50lb line. Fishing is mainly done by trolling 80% of the time and 20% casting. We tend to troll more, as the rivers are very large so we have to cover more ground. We also can Live bait with Tilapia for Black Bass for those that want to try something different.

Boats & guides:

We have 2 boats and is operated by Jason Yip and a local guide. The boats are 4.35 mtrs and 4.55mtrs and are powered by Mercury 60 hp outboard motors. Both boats are towed by 4wds. We recommend 2 anglers per boat with a maximum of 3 people. The boats are equipped with fish finders and swivel seats. Additional boats can be organized for larger groups of more than 4 people. Our guides have local knowledge of the area and the rivers, most importantly the local people.

Additional Information:

• Clothing: Lightweight cloths that will give protection from the Sun.
   

• Sun block: Sun block should be at least 30 SPF
   

• Insect Repellent: Aero guard, Rid or Bushman
   

• Sunglasses: Sunglasses are recommended, especially if polarised.
   

• Tackle: Tackle is supplied on a replacement if lost or damaged basis. You are welcome to bring your own.
   

• Fishing based on catch & release. One fish can be kept for eating.
   

• Complimentary email photos available on all charters.

Guarantees:

“Fishing is fishing”, there is never a guarantee. We can guarantee you will have an enjoyable day on the water.

Conditions:

• 50% deposit to be paid 24 hours before date of charter. Cancellation fees may apply is less than 24 hours notice given or in the event of a “No Show”.
   

• Payment must me made in full before pickup the following day
   

• Cancellations: Clients will receive a refund of 50% of payment if cancellation arises.
   

• Fishing tours is subject to season. E.g. May-November
   

• Clients to accept full responsibility if any fishing gear is broken / damaged. Based on replacement Value
   

• Insurance is not included in this tour

Weather:

As with most outdoor activities trips are subject to weather conditions. We recommend reconfirming the trip the night before departure.

Full day Charters:

From Approximately 6am – 6pm (return back to Pom)

a) Specialised charter: - For the serious fisherman
Targeting Black bass & Barramundi.
Includes light lunch and refreshments (water & soft drinks)
Includes use of tackle.

Price: Aud$625.00 per person Minimum/maximum 2 per boat. (Riverboat, 60hp motor)

b) Estuary fishing: - For the ‘Not’ so serious fisherman
Targeting: Mangrove Jacks, Estuary Cods, Grunters, Trevally, and various estuarine fish
Includes use of tackle, bait & lures.

Price: Aud$195.00 per person. Minimum 3 people / Maximum 6 per boat (Banana boat, 40hp motor)

More than one day Charters:

Includes Accommodation 3 meals a day plus refreshments (water & soft drinks).
Alcohol provided at bar prices.
Includes use of tackle.
Price on Application:

Accommodation:

We have access to a 4 bedroom camp house located about 10 mins from the main river. Place has hot water showers, gas and electricity plus 24 hour security.

Book your Kokoda Spirit Wild River Fishing Charter today.  Contact Kokoda Spirit for more information.

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