Catch and release is not just a way to fish; it’s a way to protect nature. Instead of keeping the fish, you’ll return them to the river so they can keep growing and help maintain the balance of the Babai River’s ecosystem. This is especially important for species like Golden Mahseer, which is currently listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. By choosing catch and release, you’re helping to protect the river life, and your trip becomes part of Nepal’s goal to promote eco-friendly tourism through its 2025 Eco-Tourism Action Plan.
The Babai River flows through Bardia National Park, which is home to 53 mammal species and more than 400 species of Birds. Fishing with care means you won’t disturb this rich wildlife or damage the environment. It’s the best way to enjoy adventure while also protecting the river and animals that live there, which helps to make your trip exciting and unforgettable.
What Fish Species Can You Expect in the Babai River?
| Fish Species |
Local Name |
Interesting Facts |
| Golden Mahseer |
Sahar |
One of the most valued fish for sport fishing in South Asia, known for its power and beauty |
| Snow Trout |
Asala |
Prefer colds, fast-flowing streams, often found in hilly rivers like the Babai |
| Catfish |
Bam/ Goonch |
Large, strong fish found in deep pools, popular among experienced anglers |
| Indian Torrent Catfish |
Gadhera |
Lives in rocky oxygen-rich streams, recognized by its flat head and whiskers |
| Copper Mahseer |
Bakhe Sahar |
Smaller than Golden Mahseer but equally fast, often found in mid-hill rivers |
| Minor Carps |
Bhitte/Pothi |
Common, small-sized fish, a good indicator of healthy freshwater systems |
| Rohu |
Rahu |
A popular edible fish in South Asia, found in the slower part of the river |
| Freshwater Eel |
Bamme |
Snake-like fish are found on muddy bottoms and are mostly active at night. |
| Kalaban (River Barb) |
Kalaban |
Known for its speed and silver shine, often found in schools (large groups). |
| Silver Carp |
Chandi Sahar |
Herbivorous fish that help to control algae are sometimes spotted in calmer parts of the river |
5 Days Babai River Fish Catch & Release Expedition Cost
The total cost for the 5-Day Babai River Fish-Catch and Release Expedition is USD 1390 per person. This includes private transportation from Babai River to Nepalgunj Airport, and the entire guided expedition, covering rafting gear, expert fishing guides, camping equipment, food, and support crew. Every part of the trip is arranged to give you a smooth and safe fishing adventure in the Bardiya region.
A part of the cost goes directly to conservation efforts, like the Bardiya National Park permit fees and local community support. These permits are essential to enter and explore the protected areas legally. Here is a breakdown of the national park permit cost.
| Types of Permit |
Nepali (Rs) |
SAARC countries |
Non-SAARC countries |
| Park Permit |
100 |
NPR 750 ($5.48) |
NPR 1500 ($10.95) |
| Camping Permit |
500 |
NPR 1500 ($10.95) |
NPR 3000 ($21.90) |
| Rafting Permit |
200 |
NPR 2000 ($14.60) |
NPR 4000 ($29.20) |
| Fishing Permit |
200 |
NPR 1500 ($10.95) |
NPR 2500 ($18.25) |
Note: For experiencing similar types of adventure at different locations at a flexible cost, you can try the Tamur River Expedition offered by our agency.
Can You Enjoy the Babai River Without Fishing?
Yes, the Babai River Expedition is just as rewarding, even if you don’t do fishing. You can enjoy rafting, all while spotting deer, monkeys, as well as Royal Bengal tigers along the way. It is also the best place for bird lovers, with over 400 species including hornbills, kingfishers, and peafowl. At night, just relax under the beautiful sky by the campfire, enjoy photography, and read a book or journal beside the river.
After the expedition, you go on a jeep safari at Bardiya National Park, one of the famous national parks in Nepal, where a large number of tigers are found. Take a short jungle tour or visit the nearby Tharu village to learn about their culture and traditions. Nature lovers can enjoy butterfly watching (over 300 species) or spot rare trees and plants like sal, khair, sissoo, silk cotton, and fig trees, which are perfect for eco-travelers, learners, and explorers. To witness rarer wildlife, you have to go to the Himalayas, go for the Everest Base Camp trek, and experience a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Gear and equipment needed for the Babai River Fish Catch
| Fishing Gear |
Rafting and Safety Equipment |
- Fishing Rod & Reel
- Fishing Line (20-30 lb test)
- Barbless Hooks
- Assorted Lures & Baits
- Hook Remover/ Pilers
- Landing Net (rubber mesh)
- Polarized Sunglasses
- Fishing License/Permit
|
- Central Oar Raft
- Cata-Raft
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
- Helmet
- Dry Bags
- Waterproof Containers
- First Aid Kit
|
| Camping gear |
Personal Essentials |
- Tents (2-person or 1-person)
- Sleeping Bag & Mat
- Headlamp / Torch
- Portable toiletries Kit
- 1 small bottle of Insect Repellent (50-100 ml)
- 2-3 Trash Bags/ Ziplock Bags
|
- 2-3 pairs of quick-dry T-shirts (choose brands like Columbia or The North Face
- 2 pairs of Quick-dry Trousers / Shorts (use brands like Columbia or Quechua)
- 1 Light Fleece or Jacket (try Patagonia, Arc’teryx, or Decathlon)
- 3-4 pairs of sports socks (try Darn Tough, Smartwool, or Quechua
- 1 pair of hiking shoes (choose shoes of Salomon or Merrell)
- 1 Wide-brim Hat or Cap ( any UV protection cap)
- Polarized sunglasses (try brands like Oakley, Maui Jim, or Decathlon)
- Sunscreen and Lip balm (SPF 30 or above)
- 1 Power bank (10,000-20,000 mAh)
|