Fishing in Nepal - Top 6 Places for Himalayan River Fishing

Rajesh Thapaliya
Rajesh Thapaliya
Updated on October 05, 2026

I put together this guide to help you discover Nepal's top six fishing spots and the essential gear you need.

When you want to cast your line in stunning natural surroundings, Nepal offers incredible rivers and lakes. Try the fast-flowing Seti Karnali River for silver mahseer and camping, or head to the Tamor River to catch over twenty-six fish varieties with views of Mount Everest. The Balephi River sits close to Kathmandu for a quick trip, while the Kali Gandaki River offers a chance to catch enormous freshwater fish amid deep gorges. For wildlife lovers, the Babai River runs right through Bardia National Park, where you might spot rhinos and elephants while you fish. If you prefer calmer waters, Phewa Lake in Pokhara lets you catch common carp and catfish just a short drive away, and you can also check out Ankhu Khola and Budhi Gandaki for a traditional homestay experience.

To make your fishing trip fun and exciting, pack a few basic items. Bring strong monofilament fishing lines to handle large fish, and use bobbers to alert you when something bites. A reliable spinning rod and reel weighing eight to twenty pounds works wonders in these waters. Do not forget to pack sinkers to keep your line steady and help it sink, along with light lures for clear water and dark lures for murky water.

If you want to fish in Nepal but aren't sure where to start or which place is best, we've listed the 6 Best Places to Fish in Nepal.

6 Best Places for Fishing in Nepal

Seti Karnali River

Considered one of Nepal's best fast-flowing rivers, the Seti Karnali runs through lush green hills. Anglers can cast a Fishing line while enjoying the magnetic view.

Seti Karnali is a significant tributary of the Karnali River system, which flows through western Nepal. It is formed from the glaciers and snowfields surrounding the two mountains, Nampa and API.

The lesser-known Seti River provides habitat for fish such as silver Mahseer, giant catfish, Sahar, and Bokar. Besides Fishing, anglers can use their spare time for rafting and even camping on the riverbank.

Tamor River

When most rivers lose their giant Fish to chaotic human activities, the Tamor has more. The river is home to more than 26 varieties of Fish, including Balitoridae, Cobitidae, Psilorhynchus, and many more.

Hence, anglers traveling near Kanchenjunga or Sapta Koshi will have an exciting time since the water rewards rare Fish species. Unlike anywhere else, Fishing in the Tamor River is exceptional, with spectacular views of Mt. Everest and Mt. Makalu.

In the glory of eastern Nepal, the Tamor flows downstream from Kanchenjunga, meets the Sun Koshi and Arun at Tribenighat, and forms the Saptakoshi.

Balephi River

The Balephi River has had unique and diverse aquatic species for several years. It has nourished and supported a broad range of fish species, including Catfish and golden mahseer.

A small tributary of the Bhote Koshi River, the Balephi River starts in Langtang and flows through many regions of the Himalayas. Chanute is apparently where most anglers want to be for Fishing, but you can also travel to nearby towns like Jalbire and Balephi Gaun.

The river is close to Kathmandu, and it takes only two and a half hours to reach the waterway. In addition to angling, fishers can enjoy the natural scenery and go rafting.

Kali Gandaki River

Kali Gandaki is an ideal place to start catching enormous Fish in Nepal. You can trust the river any day to catch large freshwater fish, as it's home to Golden Gudgeon Catfish and Golden Mahseer.

One of Nepal's longest rivers, Kali Gandaki originates in Mustang and flows through Nepal and Tibet. The sweeping river also provides a splendid backdrop for anglers, with soaring green hills and gorges.

Between fishing, anglers can take a leisurely break and enjoy rafting. If you disagree, you can camp on the river's edge.

Babai River

The nearby Babai River offers incredible things, from exotic wildlife to flora and beautiful landscapes. Meanwhile, the river offers anglers a variety of Fish, which can be more fun than just taking in the view.

Babai Valley has as many as 50 Fish species, including the gigantic Golden Mahseer, Indian Trout Barb, and Goonch. As the river flows through a conserved area of Bardia National Park, fishers can glimpse wild Asian Elephants, rhinos, and deer.

You can travel anywhere inside Bardia National Park or around Chepang to enjoy Fishing in the Babai River.

Phewa Lake in Pokhara

Beyond its vibrant city, snow-capped mountains, and temples, Pokhara is famous for its lakes. The city alone has more lakes than anywhere in Nepal, including Rara, Phewa, and Begnas.

While each lake shines with unique features, anglers choose Phewa for Fishing. The lake's rich waters support a variety of fish.

Anglers can catch Golden Mahseer, Catfish, and Common Carp. To reach the lake, anglers need only ride for 5 hours.

Besides these fishing places, Ankhu Khola and Budhi Gandaki are also options for fishermen. You can experience a rural homestay. In addition to Fishing and a traditional stay, you may enjoy the view of the great Himalayas, green hills, farming terraces, and more.

Basic Fishing Gears

High-quality fishing Line

Anyone who fishes in Nepal should have strong fishing lines in their kit. These lines help to fight giant Fish and prevent the hook from being lost. Avid anglers often use monofilament Fishing lines because they are efficient, abrasion-resistant, and durable.

Bobbers

Bobbers act as an indicator, letting anglers know when a fish has taken the bait. They notify you when fish take the hook by hopping. These days, Bobbers are versatile and come in different shapes and sizes to quickly adjust to the bait. You can have either regular bobbers or spring ones, which quickly sense the presence of Fish.

Fishing Rod and Reel

Anglers of all skill levels need a quality, adjustable, long-lasting Fishing rod and reel. They're essential for any angler, pro or amateur. A simple spinning rod and reel weighing 8lb to 20lb performs well in both fresh and saltwater.

You may want to check out the best ultralight spinning reel and ultralight fishing rod.

Sinkers

Another small piece of gear that is very useful while Fishing is a Sinker. They add weight to the fishing line to maintain stability, increase the chance of sinking, and maintain casting distance. Unlike lead sinkers in the early days, sinkers now come in varieties such as Pyramid, barrel, bullet, and dipsey.

Fishing Lures

Fishing Lures are artificial baits that tempt and trap Fish. They mimic natural bait and work well in all water types. Use light-colored lures in clear water; in murky water, dark-colored lures work well.