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Lake Murray

Papua New Guinea

THE ULTIMATE BLACK BASS FISHING ADVENTURE

Lake Murray is the largest lake in Papua New Guinea and home to an abundance of the prized black bass and barramundi.

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Lake Murray is located in the middle Fly District of the Western Province of PNG and covers around 650 square kilometres, but increases up to five times the size in the wet season.

 

Lake Murray and the surrounding rivers have consistently proven that there is an untapped amount of the mighty PNG black bass with a bycatch of barramundi.

 

There are five rivers that lead into and out of the main lake providing endless fishing opportunities. 

Group Size

Up to 6

Target Species

Black Bass

Season

Jun > Sep

Duration

8 Days

Cost Per Person

Approx. $8,950

Lake Murray Lodge is nestled amongst the trees with 12 very comfortable ensuited rooms each overlooking the lake.

 

The main lodge has a wraparound veranda, with water views on three sides, the lodge is a large open space with a dining room, bar, lounge and reception area.

 

This lodge has won awards for it's design and eco-friendly philosophy and is a great space to relax, enjoy excellent food and cold beer. 

The Fishing

The fishing at Lake Murray is like no where else on the planet, with endless opportunities to track down that monster black bass. While fishing with excellent guides trained by Angling Adventures and using our recommended tackle list, fishermen consistently catch big numbers of black bass, some reaching well over 40 pounds. 

The Papuan black bass love to sit close to structure so the trick is to get your gear of choice right in front of them, then the challenge is to haul them away from the snag, trolling deep diving lures has proved very effective as the motion of the boat assists in dragging them into open water.

Casting large soft plastics, vibes, surface lures and even flies will also get their attention, just hold on tight! These fish are often referred to as "scary" and that rings true when you get your first hit. 

The system also holds large numbers of barramundi that can often be caught while fishing for bass but can also be targeted. We are certain these barramundi fight harder than their Australian counterparts and there has been plenty over a meter brought into the boat!

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The wet season is from around mid-December to the end of March thus June through to September is the ideal time of the year to fish the Lake. 

The boats are 5 metres in length have been custom built for this unique environment. They fish three anglers comfortably with two guides. The boats have 60hp Yamaha 4 stroke motors which get up and go to get you fishing in no time.

 

Villages can also be visited during your stay where one can experience the unique culture of the Lake Murray area. This part of the Western Province is also home to over half of PNG's total bird population and Lake Murray itself is one of the best bird watching areas in the province.

Click the video below to watch an in depth report of our recent bass and barra expedition to Lake Murray.
Everything you need to know about your tour in one place!
The Lake Murray Lodge Origin Story
Ifish at Lake Murray
Big Lake Murray Barra

Non Fishing Activities

For the non fishing partner or simply some variety during your trip, the lodge is a beautiful environment to sit, relax and read a book, villages can be visited during your stay where one can experience the unique culture of the Lake Murray area.

 

This part of the Western Province is also home to over half of PNG's total bird population and Lake Murray itself is one of the best bird watching areas in the province, the fishing guides are also excellent bird watching and cultural guides. 

Itinerary: 

Day 1

Own arrangements to Port Moresby then onto Mount Hagen, overnight at Rondon Lodge

Day 2

Charter flight to Lake Murray, half day fishing

Day 3 > 7

5 days guided fishing.

Day 8

Charter flight from Lake Murray to Mount Hagen, where you connecting to your own onward flights/travel plans.

Note - This is a guide only, any variation, additional days can be tailored to you needs, price may differ depending departure location

Availability: 

2024 Dates of arrival and departure to and from Mount Hagen

Trip 1: June 18-25 *FULLY BOOKED*

Trip 2: July 2-9 *FULLY BOOKED*

Trip 3: July 17-24 *FULLY BOOKED*

Trip 4: Aug 1-8 *FULLY BOOKED*

Trip 5: Aug 17-24 *3 Spots Remaining*

Trip 6: Aug 31-7 Sep *FULLY BOOKED*

Trip 7: Sept 14-21 *3 Spots Remaining*

2025 Bookings are now open!

Book now to lock in early bird 2024 prices:

fishing@anglingadventures.com.au 

Phone Glenn on: +61 0417 272 871

Exact dates within this are flexible and also determined by flight schedules, extended trips are welcome and more days fishing can be added. 

We usually fish 3 per boat, if you wish to fish 1 or 2 per boat our rates will differ, please enquire.

Included

Not included

- Airport transfers and accomodation in Mount Hagen

- Private charter from Mount Hagen > Lake Murray             return

- All meals once once in Mount Hagen and Lake Murray

- Accomodation at Lake Murray Lodge

- 5 1/2 days fishing in Lake Murray with local guides

- Flights ex Brisbane or Cairns  > Mount Hagen return

- Fishing gear, Angling Adventures will provide a detailed list of recommendations

- Visa costs, approx. $75 USD 

- Alcohol and soft drinks at Rondon Ridge and Lake Murray Lodge

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