The Mahseer – what a name to conjure with, and what recollections he awakes in the heats of those who have been so fortunate to have seen something like him – (Skene Dhu, in The Mighty Mahseer 1923)

The genetically-rich Golden Himalayan Mahseer barbus tor putitora, is one of the larger and common  species of fish found in the turbid rivers and streams of the vast sub-Himalayan region of India, Nepal, Bhutan, Burma, and Pakistan. They are to be found in both glacial and spring fed rivers that drain the Himalayas.

Physically these stunning creatures feature an armour of large scales, which are said to be the largest amongst freshwater fish; fins that are also in high proportion to its body mass; a very high amount of outer body slime; significant lateral line that when need be makes it an efficient predator, and also helps in providing caution from possible danger, man, flash floods, landslides etc. Its large eyes, large nostrils, barbells, and a very stream lined body make the design of a true survivor that can withstand the punishing monsoons that flush these watersheds each year.

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Since the 60’s the legendry junction of the Ganges with the Nayar has lured enthusiasts from all over for a  battle with its hard-hitting Golden Himalayan Mahseer. Byas Ghat had been in my dreams since I was a boy, and in 2005 I manifested that dream. Here’s the report from my diary.

6th of October 2005: I had a Byas Ghat fantasy come true today!  It was strait from my dreams.

The morning fishing session that started at 0600 hrs was fruitless. Surendra and I headed back to the confluence after breakfast at 0930 hrs while Peter and Pralad had decided to run up the Nayar to try out some of its deep pools and beautiful runs.

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The Himalayan Experience – fishing for golden Mahseer
How does one go about describing India and its Mahseer? When I sat down to formulate this in words I found myself at a loss. I’ve been around the block. Having fished for many different species in locales that varied from exotic to downright dangerous, I am not easily impressed, let alone left in awe. India did something to me; it is the one trip I remember most vividly, the one trip I look forward to doing again and again. Mahseer are like tarpon – ancient fish, they demand respect, play no favorites and test your mettle to the limit. They also make you come back time after time. India will do that to you as well, albeit for reasons I still can’t explain. Another refreshing first was the standard of our camp in the mountains. Hailing from Africa, camping in the outdoors is what we do. Been there, done that, have the T-shirt et al, that is, until you camp the way the Himalayan Outback do. Imagine top class service, all the amenities you could hope for, three meals a day and staff eager to please, catering to your every whim. Place yourself in a setting that poets dream of, prepare to do battle with a fish of legends, and experience the magic of the Himalayas. Yeah, right. I could not even begin to describe it…
P.J Jacobs
The Complete Fly Fisher
SA