MORE THAN 30 YEARS
EXPERIENCE
OVER 10,000
TRIPS BOOKED
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.
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 total
5½ days
fishing
Cost Per Person
-
3pax/boat $9,460pp
-
2pax/boat $10660pp
Lake Murray Lodge, owned and operated by Trans Niugini Tours, is nestled amongst the trees with 12 very comfortable en-suite 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 the local Trans Nuigini Tours guides 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 metre brought into the boat!
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 first bass and barra expedition to Lake Murray in 2022.
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 (with assistance from our travel agent), 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 (with assistance from our travel agent).
Note - This is a guide only, any variation, additional days can be tailored to you needs.
Availability:
2025 Dates of arrival and departure to and from Lake Murray. Allow a couple of days each way for travel planning.
Trip 1: July 07-13: FULLY BOOKED
Trip 2: July 16-24: 3 spots / one boat left!
Trip 3: July 24-30: FULLY BOOKED
Trip 4: Aug 03-09: FULLY BOOKED
Trip 5: Aug 24-30: FULLY BOOKED
Trip 6: Sep 01-07: FULLY BOOKED
Trip 7: Sep 22-28: FULLY BOOKED
2026 Bookings can be secured now with a 30% deposit on 2025 pricing. Any price rises will be calculated and added later.
The standard trip in 2026 will be 6.5 days fishing. One day longer than 2025 trips.
First pick July: 3 spots / one boat left!
Second pick July: 6 spots / two boats left!
First pick Aug: FULLY BOOKED
Second pick Aug : FULLY BOOKED
First pick Sep: 6 spots / two boats left!
Second pick Sep: 6 spots / two boats left!
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 accommodation in Mount Hagen
- Private charter from Mount Hagen > Lake Murray, return
- All meals once in Mount Hagen and Lake Murray
- Accomodation at Lake Murray Lodge
- 5½ 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 or complete Lake Murray Tackle Packs are available for hire and delivered to your door!
- Visa costs, approx. $75 USD
- Alcohol and soft drinks at Rondon Ridge and Lake Murray Lodge
