WESTERN & GULF PAPUAN BLACK BASS
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
WILD WEST SPORTFISHING
Explore the remote wilds with Rock Expeditions and the traditional resource owners of Papua New Guinea (and waterways). Jungle rivers, exotic deltas and the lost swamps of Papua New Guinea hold the meanest freshwater fish on the planet. The Papuan Black Bass (Niugini).
To complement the natural beauty of PNG and to minimize our footprint – we conduct our expeditions in ‘wild camp’ format in cooperation with the local community and resource owners.
Expeditions are 10 days in length to justify the remote travel and deployment efforts required. This is wild Papua New Guinea Black Bass fishing.
ACCOMMODATION
Our accommodation options are ever changing. This is because our expedition itineraries change regularly in order to rest existing grounds and trial new, unexplored zones. Accommodation can range from traditionally built houses to rudimentary shelters built from local timbers and materials. A majority of our accommodation locations are on the actual fishing grounds. We provide sleeping mattress, insect net and other conveniences to assist with your expedition. Lodging is communal and best enjoyed in a team!
EXPEDITION LIFE
Whilst we do our best to maintain a minimum threshold of comfort, expeditions are operated out in the “frontier”. We include all meals, bottled purified water, soda, basic laundry service and guided expertise that is unparalleled around the world for expedition-style angling. AC charging (Aus/NZ style 3 pin plug) and cold drinks are available on a daily basis. Local SP Beer and other beverages can be arranged on request at additional cost.
SAFETY
Our job is to keep you safe. We can assure you that Papua New Guinea is safe for tourists and anglers alike as we work hand-in-hand with the traditional resource owners and community. All vessels feature life-jackets and the most experienced captains that know the waters intimately. All vessels are fitted with Garmin InReach devices for reliable communications and tracking. Satellite phone is available for emergency communications. Our head guide and 2IC camp operations are trained in Senior First Aid (Australian Standard).
WHAT'S A DAY LIKE AT ROCK EXPEDITIONS?
Rise as the sun starts to peak over the horizon and fog lifts from the waterways. Breakfast, coffee and tea in front of the fire whilst you listen for birds of paradise.
Fish all day or plan hop, skip and jump through isolated swamps and winding waterways with strategic snack breaks in between. Fish until sunset or as desired. Our local cooks prepare traditional and simple western cuisine whilst you sit in front of the fire and watch the stars or look for signs of life on the horizon.
Team up in pairs with a buddy or come prepared to make a new fishing mate for life. Our vessels have a maximum limit of x2 anglers per 23ft vessel (3 anglers per vessel can be arranged on request only). You will be allocated an experienced captain and deckhand – traditional ocean resource owners that live and breathe these special waterways more than anyone else. Papua New Guinea’s offers some of the best Papuan Black Bass, Barramundi, Saratoga, Mangrove Jack and Threadfin Salmon fishing. We will also be following up Permit fisheries in the border region this coming 2021 (fly-fishing only).
If you are attending as a solo angler or less than the minimum requirement (we will advise you), we will do our best to join you with a group. Please send us an email if you would like to join – we love to bring solo or odd-numbered anglers together because they tend to be mates for life!).
SEASON
We operate throughout the Western and Gulf Region between June and October. This time of year provides the best combination of rainfall, wind and maritime conditions. We do plan to offer increased expeditions in this area in the future.
River flooding is part of the natural cycle of life and unfortunately, no one can beat mother nature! Fishing can be difficult during these times.
WEATHER
Local weather averages between 26°C (79f) to 32°C (90f) and is often calm and sunny. Life in the tropics means rain squalls and thunderstorms are part of daily life but they are usually short-lived! We recommend bringing a quality rain/spray jacket.
Nights can get very cold, particularly near large bodies of inland water. We do suggest bringing warm, comfortable clothing such as tracksuit pants, jumper (sweater) and thick socks.
TRIP CAPACITY
We require a minimum of 4 anglers to operate an expedition. For exclusive groups, we require all deposits to be paid to confirm the reservation. We can operate with a maximum of 6 anglers on a 2-2-2 basis or 3-3 (under special request).
For anglers attending solo, expeditions will not be confirmed until minimum capacity has been reached. A deposit is required to secure your spot.
ARE YOU A SOLO ANGLER?
Solo angler? Get in touch! We have many anglers that want to fish PNG but don’t have anyone to travel with to make it happen. Let us help you achieve your dream to fish PNG!
WILD, COMMUNITY FOCUSED SPORTFISHING
SCHEDULE
Expeditions are currently operated June through October on a set schedule which coincides with flight schedules. We plan to offer shorter, on-demand expeditions for smaller groups in the future. Please contact us for the latest expedition dates.
HOW TO GET TO PNG
There are daily flights operated by Qantas, Virgin Australia and Air Niugini to the capital of Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby (POM) from Australian cities: Sydney, Brisbane & Cairns. Travelers may also route via Manila from North America or via Singapore (or Japan) if traveling from Europe.
HOW TO GET TO BLACK BASS CAMPS
We are currently preparing new expedition schedules and will advise the latest logistics information that you will need. All ports will be accessible via commercial flights from Port Morebsy (or additional arrangements will be advised).
WHAT ABOUT MALARIA?
Due to swamps, flood plains and stagnant water, mosquitoes are a fact of life in this region. Please consult your GP for advice and possible anti-malarial medication suitable for you. Note: not all bites and mosquito species carry malaria!
TIPS & RECOMMENDATIONS
- We highly recommend a layover day or two in Port Moresby for acclimation purposes, overcome jet-lag and to ensure you have adequate time for connecting flights/transfers.
- We recommend full-length clothing for this region as mosquitoes, sand flies and contact with vegetation is likely.
PRICING
10 DAY EXPEDITION ITINERARY
- INCLUSIONS
- 8 Fishing Days
- Daily Guided Fishing
- Accommodation
- Meals & Snacks
- Bottled Water & Drinks
- Camp Return Transfers
- Package is ex. nominated airport only (contact us)
Exclusions- Flights
- Accommodation (Layover or otherwise additional, cancellation)
- PNG Entry Permit
- Alcohol & Spirits
- Insurance (mandatory)
- Tip/Gratuity
