Fly Fishing at Fandhar, Pakistan - 1990

In April 1990, I spent 4 weeks in Pakistan. Four days were spent in Karachi, then I flew to Islamabad, and spent a couple of days there. I then flew across the Karakoram mountain range to Gilgit, one of the most beautiful but dangerous flights in the world. Whilst in Gilgit, I hired a jeep and driver from 'Pamir Tours' for a fishing trip, and took 11 hours starting at 5am to travel about 50 miles; through Gulpis to Fandhar which is in the 'disputed territory' region. I stayed overnight at a government 'Guest House', travelling back the next day but stopping for an occassional fish. The pictures show this northern region, but hardly do justice to the awe inspiring scenery.

Fishing in Pakistan
Use your normal UK flies. I found a bazzar in Gilgit selling hooks and one in Gupes selling a form of small Mepps, but this was the only fishing tackle for sale that I found on the whole trip. So take an excess of disposable gear (nylon, flies). I took some lapel badges which were popular. A bass bag is essential. You need to be totally self-sufficient, do not expect the jeep driver or tour organiser to have any equipment, fishing or otherwise. Expect much good natured attention from many children and take care with hooks etc. Remember to take some bottled water and toilet paper on your fishing trip.
I 'conversed' with a fisherman in Gilgit who was trotting some chapati down a deep, fast flowing stretch between some boulders. His rod was about 13 ft and consisted of two branches bound together with rubber. The very thick nylon line was tied directly to the rod tip. I could neither determine what species he was after, nor whether he had caught any fish - but I did not see him catch anything.

For more info on fishing by Mr. Ken Baron, Please visit his website.