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African longfin eel

Anguilla mossambica

African longfin eel© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The African longfin eel (Anguilla mossambica) is a versatile, migratory eel found in coastal marine waters, estuaries, and inland rivers across southern Africa. It grows rapidly to impressive lengths and puts up a strong, relentless fight, making it a prized game fish for adventurous anglers.

Fight
Taste
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Anguillidae

Max Size

150 cm

Max Weight

5.7 kg

Habitat

marine, freshwater, brackish

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Rainy season (November to March) when eels move upstream to spawn

Best Time

Dawn and dusk, when eels are most active near the bottom

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for African longfin eel

  • Use a heavy‑weight sliding sinker to keep the bait near the bottom in murky water
  • Employ live baits such as small fish, catfish, or shrimp for the best response
  • Work a slow lift‑and‑drop retrieve with a soft‑plastic worm or jig to trigger a strike
  • Target muddy flats and deep channels where eels hide during daylight

Top Fishing Locations for African longfin eel

Lake Kariba

Zambia/Zimbabwe
beginner70% Very Common

A massive reservoir on the Zambezi River offering abundant African longfin eel in its deep, slow‑moving waters, popular with both local and visiting anglers.

Best: April‑October

Zambezi River near Victoria Falls

Zimbabwe
intermediate55% Common

The stretch downstream of Victoria Falls provides strong currents and rocky habitats where eels congregate, especially after the dry season.

Best: May‑September

Rufiji River Delta

Tanzania
intermediate45% Occasional

Tidal flats and mangrove channels of the Rufiji delta create ideal nighttime feeding grounds for longfin eels, attracting specialist anglers.

Best: November‑February

Okavango Delta

Botswana
expert30% Occasional

Remote floodplains and oxbow lakes host elusive eels; accessing prime spots usually requires a guide and a light‑watercraft setup.

Best: June‑August

Congo River near Kisangani

Democratic Republic of the Congo
expert25% Uncommon

Deep, swift sections of the Congo provide high‑oxygen habitats where eels are less pressured, offering a true bucket‑list challenge.

Best: March‑May

Lake Malawi

Malawi
beginner60% Common

Clear, warm waters with abundant prey support healthy eel populations; the lake’s many bays are easily reached from shore lodges.

Best: September‑December

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for African longfin eel

Recommended Equipment

RodMedium‑heavy action spinning or casting rod, 7‑8 ft
Line20‑30 lb test monofilament or 30‑50 lb test braided line
Lure TypeSoft‑plastic worms, jig heads, or live bait
TechniqueBottom fishing with a sliding sinker and a slow lift‑and‑drop retrieve

Best bait: Live small fish (e.g., tilapia), catfish, shrimp, or earthworms