Mahseer Fishing Tour

The Mahseer is a fresh water scaly fish, which can attain a huge size, and shows more sport for its size than a Salmon and therefore is considered the best sport fish in the world. The Mahseer quite avidly takes to bait such as spoon, plug, fly or livefish, an erroneous impression has gained ground that they are carnivorous and rapacious. Careful studies have shown that they are omnivorous and take almost any thing available in water ranging from weeds, snails, crabs and live fish.

The Etymology of Mahseer suggests the word could mean a fish with "lion's gameness", " big scaled fish" and "fish par excellence Mahseer inhabit different rivers throughout the length and breadth of India and the sub continent. Experts have identified about six species in India, but no detailed information on the present status and distribution of these species is available. The different species of Mahseer inhabit various habitats, ranging from tropical waters where temperature in summer goes upto 35 celsius to sub Himalayan waters where the winter water temperature drops closer to 0 C.

Though Fishermen consider the Golden or Himalayan Mahseer (Tor putitora) as the main species available on the Saryu & Mahakali rivers, besides the Silver and Black Mahseer. Goonch (Bagarus bagarius), a fresh water scavenger is also another species that thrives in these rivers. Though accurate data on the catches of Mahseer for different parts of the country are not available, comparison of figures from isolated surveys and observations of Anglers indicate that in the past Mahseer of 70 - 80 lbs, have been frequently caught in the Indian waters. It has been reported that the Mahseer can grow to weights exceeding 100 lbs.

Suggested tackle & line for fishing:
1. Jointed floating 7-9-11
2. Rattlin Rapala 7-8
3. Count Down 7-9
4. Line 15lb-18lb


ITINERARY

Day 01: Corbett NP - Abbott Mount
The journey to be taken by road via Bhimtal, Padampuri, Dhanachuli, Saharphatak, Devidhura, Dhunaghat, Lohaghat and arrive Abbott Mount in the afternoon. Enjoy the drive that offers scenic views of the Kumaon Himalayas. Overnight stay in Abbott Mount Cottage.

Day 02, 03 & 04: Pancheshwar
Spend three days fishing at the confluence of river Kali & Saryu. Overnight stay in a fully serviced camp by the river.

Day 05: Abbott Mount
Full day fishing on the river. Return to Abbott Mount Cottage for overnight stay. This historic hamlet of Abbot Mount is situated at an altitude of about 7,000 ft above sea level in the eastern part of the Kumaon Hills near the small town of Lohaghat in Champavat District. Abbott Mount was founded by and named after Mr. John Harold Abbott of Jhansi. An English businessman who wanted to start a hill station for the European community at the turn of the 20th century. Unlike many Indian hill stations Abbott Mount has changed little since its inception. There are only thirteen secluded cottages spread over this private hill. There is a picturesque church set amidst the forest and a ancient cricket pitch with an unsurpassed view of the mountains.

Day 06: Abbott Mount-Kathgodam-Delhi/Agra/Varanasi
After breakfast, drive back to Kathgodam (6 hours). You can have the option of sightseeing in Nainital or Sat Tal. Connect overnight air-conditioned sleeper class train to Delhi / Agra or Varanasi.

How to book

The booking of this itinerary is with Asian Adventures, B-9, Sector 27, Noida 201301. India
Te1: +91-120-252 4874; 322 5387. Fax: +91-120-252 4878. Email: wildindiatours@vsnl.com

To confirm your booking please send a 25% deposit by wire transfer to Standard Chartered Bank, Account No 52805001839 which is in the name of "Asian Adventures", using Swift Code "SCBLINBBDEL". Branch address: M-1 NDSE Part I, New Delhi-110049. India. Or you can send a cheque payable to Asian Adventures at B-9, Sector 27, Noida 201301. India Cancellation charges are 30 days before arrival date 25%, 21 days before arrival date 50%, 15 days before arrival date 90%, 7 days before arrival date 100% of the total itinerary cost.

Remaining balance to reach Asian Adventures at least 30 days before tour commencement by wire transfer (to bank account stated above) or by sending a cheque made payable to Asian Adventures to the above address. Alternativ ely you can pay the balance in cash upon arrival.