Golden Mahseer: Meet the giant of India

We decided at Rodmaps to discover the mythical predatory fish that inhabit the most remote waters of our planet. For this first, we take you to Asia to meet the Golden Mahseer. 

The Golden mahseer: sport fish par excellence

For those who do not yet know this fish, know that the Golden mahseer is anything but an ordinary fish. India's most sought-after predatory fish, the golden mahseer became a highly prized fish with the arrival of British fishermen living in India during the 19th century.

The name “mahseer” is a local word meaning “big mouth,” a more than apt label for this giant barbel-like whiskered creature. The Golden mahseer belongs to the carp family. Armored golden scales cover powerful flanks, and prominent fins give it great power, both for maintaining its position in the fastest currents and for reaching incredible speeds in times of danger. 

It is recognized for its spectacular golden color and especially for its extreme strength. It can indeed reach an exceptional speed of 40km / h during its rushes, which makes it one of the most sought after sport fish by cast and fly fishermen.An adult Golden Mahseer weighs between 5 and 10kg, but it can reach up to 25 kg and more. The Golden Mahseer are native to the cold, rocky Himalayan rivers and migrate to warmer waters during the winter months. 

Mahseer: extreme fishing

The masheer is generally fished before and after the monsoon, in the spring and in the fall. Its sight fishing in crystalline and shallow waterways, through large glacial rivers is very similar to that of salmon or once again of steelhead. 

They are recognized to be particularly selective fish and are often associated for fishermen with fish such as steelhead or permit. 

It is generally cast by casting with lures such as hardbait or even undulating spoons and sometimes even with surface lures when it is frenzied by feeding by blocking schools of forage fish.

Beyond this powerful fish that is the masheer, the rivers of the Indian Himalayas offer some of the wildest and most unexplored waterways in the world. The simplicity of the region, the people encountered and the incredible landscapes are a spectacle in themselves. If you are looking for the ultimate adventure to one of the last frontiers of fly or lure fishing, India is a must see! Whether you are a beginner or an experienced fisherman, the masheer will put your patience and fishing skills to the test. 

As you will have understood, golden mahseer fishing in the Himalayas is much more than a simple fishing trip. You will be immersed in the local culture and surrounded by amazing landscapes and wildlife. It's a chance to see and experience the far north of India in all its glory. Above all, remember that this will be a real adventure for you.

Discover our other articles on exotic fish: peacock-bass, trevally, snakehead.