Packing for Nepal isn't like packing for most fishing destinations. You're dealing with altitude changes, tropical heat in the lowlands, cold Himalayan nights, remote locations with no stores for hundreds of kilometers, and fish that will test every knot you tied at home. Here's everything we recommend bringing.
Fishing Tackle
Mahseer and Goonch are powerful fish. Undergunning is the single most common mistake first-time visitors make. Bring gear that can handle strong runs in heavy current.
- Rods: 9–10 foot, rated for 20–40 lb line. Two rods minimum.
- Reels: Large arbor spinning or baitcaster with smooth drag. 200m+ of backing.
- Main line: 30–50 lb braided line is the standard for Mahseer.
- Leaders: 40–80 lb fluorocarbon. Bring more than you think.
- Hooks: Strong, chemically-sharpened circle hooks, sizes 2/0 to 6/0.
- Lures: Deep-diving plugs, large spoons, vibration baits.
- For fly anglers: 9–10 weight setup, floating and intermediate lines, streamers.
Don't stress if you can't bring everything
We keep quality rods, reels, and terminal tackle at our base camp. Just let us know in advance.
Clothing for All Conditions
Nepal's weather can swing 20°C in a single day, especially in spring and autumn. Layers are your friend. Don't bring cotton — it stays wet forever in humid conditions.
- Quick-dry fishing shirts (2–3, long-sleeved for sun protection)
- Lightweight pants that zip off to shorts
- Fleece or light down jacket for mornings and evenings
- Waterproof/breathable rain jacket
- Wide-brim hat with chin strap
- Polarized sunglasses — essential for spotting fish
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Wading boots with felt or rubber soles
Personal & Medical
- Passport (with at least 6 months validity) + photocopies
- Travel insurance documents (including adventure activity coverage)
- Any personal medications in original packaging
- Basic first-aid: antiseptic, bandages, antihistamines
- High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Strong insect repellent (DEET-based for lowland rivers)
- Water purification tablets or a filter bottle
- Headlamp with spare batteries
Things we see first-timers forget every trip
Polarized sunglasses, a rain jacket, and enough leader material. Add these to your packing list now.
