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3 Top Himalayan Rivers for Golden Mahseer Fly Fishing - Misty Dhillon
Someone recently asked, what my top 3 Himalayan Mahseer fly fishing rivers are, and why?
A great question that inspired me to write and share some of my personal experiences while fly fishing for Mahseer.
For over two decades, my passion for Golden Mahseer has lead me to explore Mahseer expedition options as well as training local guides after becoming India’s first FFI casting instructor.
So here are my two cents on the 3 top Himalayan Mahseer fly fishing rivers.
#3
Saryu River, India
Uniquely situated all the way on the borders of India and Nepal, the Mahakali river is joined by a few good tributaries that offer opportunities for fly fishing for Golden Mahseer. Of these the Saryu river that comes in from India, is probably the largest and most productive river, especially for Golden Mahseer fly fishing.
During the season; April to early June and a small window in October. Fresh fish come into the Saryu from the main river, chasing schools of bait fish, which makes it an ideal time to be out there with a fly rod.
Though do keep in mind, this piece of water can sometimes get a bit crowded. As it is a hot favourite among local lure anglers. Which makes it imperative to visit this river with the right guides so you can find the productive windows of opportunities. Lately, forest fires have also made fishing in the months of April through June quite hazy and unpleasant during peak summer.
Therefore, if you are looking to push your fly fishing boundaries in search of a fish of your dreams. Then the Saryu is certainly offers some of the best fly fishing waters of India.
#2
Drangme Chhu River, Bhutan
One of Bhutan’s largest rivers, The Drangme Chhu, has a magnificent watershed that stretches along eastern Bhutan.
Coming from Trashi Yangtse, the Drangme Chhu is joined by a series of freestone rivers such as the Gamri, Sherri Chhu, Mekuri Chhu, Kuri Chhu and Mangde Chhu before flowing into India’s, Manas National Park.
Additionally, this is a largely unfragmented Golden Maheeer population, providing the perfect conditions for world class fly fishing for Mahseer. I love supporting regions that serve as vital protected watersheds for the future of these legendary fish.
#1
Puna Tsang Chhu, Bhutan
Bhutan’s capital, Thimpu is a beautiful three-hour drive to the stunning waters of the Puna Tsang Chhu at Punakha. Famous for it’s monastery, it provides a dramatic and sacred backdrop. Downriver from Punakha are some of my favorite waters for swinging flies in front of mammoth Mahseer in completely unpressured waters.
Bhutan has a sparse population along with an inspiring conservation mindset that preserves pristine ecosystems. The culture, the landscape, the pristine waters, world class Chocolate and Golden Mahseer fly fishing, make this a dream river, especially during the months of April and May.
Although there are many other amazing rivers out there in the Himalayas that offer Mahseer fly fishing potential. Getting to them during the right window is essential along with the right flies and fly lines. Reach out to me if you are feeling called to fly fish for this golden beauty in the Himalayas.
Golden Mahseer Fly Tying with Misty
Flies are a key component for Golden Mahseer fly fishing. Even though Golden Mahseer flies aren’t hard to tie. They require some key components that can be learnt during this 2-hr virtual event.
Schedule your complimentary consultation if you are feeling called.
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