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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 and saratoga.

 

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

Apr > Nov

Duration

9 Days

Cost Per Person

Approx. $8,500

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 May through to October 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.

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

Depart Cairns or Brisbane for Port Moresby then onto Mount Hagen, overnight at Rondon Lodge

Day 2

Charter flight to Lake Murray, half day fishing

Day 3 > 7

Guided fishing

Day 8

Charter flight from Lake Murray to Mount Hagen, connecting flight to Port Moresby and overnight at The Airways Hotel

Day 9 

Flight from Port Moresby to Brisbane or Cairns

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

Availability 

28th Apr > 6th May 2023 BOOKED OUT

12th May > 20th May 2023 - BOOKED OUT

23rd May > 27th May 2023 - BOOKED OUT

9th June > 17th June 2023 - 3 SPOTS LEFT

23rd June > 1st July 2023 - BOOKED OUT

7th July > 15th July 2023 - BOOKED OUT

28th Jul > 5th Aug 2023 - BOOKED OUT

11th Aug > 19th Aug 2023 -  BOOKED OUT

25th Aug > 2nd Sep 2023 - 6 spots remaining

14th Sep > 22nd Sep 2023 - 2 SPOTS LEFT

28th Sep > 6th Oct 2023 - 6 spots remaining

12th Oct > 20th Oct 2023 - 2 SPOTS 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.

If these dates don't fit your schedule please enquire as alterations are possible.

Included

- Flights ex Brisbane or Cairns (prices will differ)  > Mount Hagen return

- 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

- Transfers and accomodation at the Airways Hotel in      Port Moresby  on return trip 

Not included

- 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

- Meals and beverages at Airways hotel in Port Moresby

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