Fishing
There are three main species that are considered
game fish within the length of the beat.
Golden Mahseer (Barbus Tor Putitora)- An apex species
and similar to the Humpback Mahseer found on the
Cauvery River. The largest fish caught within the
beat has been approximately eighty pounds.
Trout - Not found in the immediate proximity of
the lodge, due to the presence of the Mahseer, but
reasonably prevalent further downstream.
Goonch - Large bottom feeder, growing up to 200lbs
- a hunt for this species requires extensive preparation.
- Fly Fishing - local experts
have landed up to 10lb fish on the fly, but
this fishing technique is generally unknown
in India.
- Bait Fishing -
(a) Live Bait - Popular with
local anglers, who have a high success rate,
especially in murky water.
(b) Attar or Ragi Paste - Dough
based preparation that is compressed into a
ball on the hook. Useful in pools and slower
water, and experience has shown that the larger
the ball the larger the fish...
- Spin Fishing
- Hand Nets - These are small
hand woven nets approximately 90cm by 90cm utilising
stone weights, which are used by local villagers.
Well versed in methods two and three above, lack
of good fishing accessories and prices of imported
tackle has meant effective exclusion to locals -
ironically to those who know the river and surrounding
area the best. The Tiger Reserve in conjunction
with the Mahseer Conservation Society and local
government, has introduced a Ghillie Training Programme
to encourage, develop and support local participation.
Please bring your own tackle, including rods, spinning
reels, spinners and lures. Accommodation consists
of five individual cottages, set back from the river,
each of which has a bedroom with twin beds, bathroom
and dressing room with an external covered veranda,
overlooking the valley.
