Bensbach Wilderness Lodge, PNG

Fish for: Barramundi

Avail Seasons: May to September

Location: South Western Corner of PNG

Recommended stay: 6.5 Days Fishing/7 Nights

Accomodation: Established Lodge which has been operating for nearly 40 years

Other activities: World class bird watching and wild life tours plus cultural experiences with the locals

Pricing: $8.890pp ex Mt Hagan for groups of 6 anglers (smaller or single enquiries welcome)

Overview:

Many destinations make the claim “Land of Giants”. Well, this is one that certainly deserves it.

There would be more metre plus barramundi caught here each season than any other destination on the planet.

They are all in great condition and give a serious account of themselves once hooked.

Big surface lures, shallow divers, jerk baits and soft plastics are all engulfed in shuddering strikes.

Specimens over 120cms are relatively common and up to 140cms isn’t beyond the realms of expectation.

With metre plus fish being the primary target you’ll be upsizing rods, reels, braid, leader and lures compared to what you’ve done in the NT, FNQ or Kimberley Coast.

We’re happy to provide advice on every part of equipment you’ll require at the time of booking.

Bensbach Wilderness Lodge is nestled in the sparsely populated south western corner of PNG close to the Irian Jia border.

Unlike the rest of the country, it’s a land of sweeping flood plains that are home to some of the biggest barramundi you’ll encounter anywhere.

The Bensbach River is circa 250kms long with the lodge being situated about 100kms from the mouth. This location gives access to the best of the fishing grounds although your guides will know where the barra are most active and do the extra miles if that will deliver the best results.

The bird watching and wildlife viewing opportunities are boundless. There’s plenty that visit Bensbach to experience everything the area has to offer other than chasing barra.

The back drop and amazing flora and fauna are captivating and make the whole experience extremely special.

Hundreds of Rusa Deer, wallabies, and wild pigs roam the flood plains. Birds of prey keep a keen eye out for easy victims, brolga and jabiru glide in the updrafts and bee eaters snatch insects with precision is just a start for “twitching” enthusiasts.

The lodge is famous for all the right reasons, comfortable accommodation with a generous lounge/dining/bar area, friendly service, knowledgeable local guides, abundant bird and wildlife and world class barra fishing.

It’s built totally from local materials, solar powered, designed in 2 separate wings of accommodation that link to the comfortable lounge/dining/bar area.

Local produce, freshly caught barra or venison purchased from local hunters will make an appearance on the menu.

There’s a fully stocked bar but we’d recommend you bring a couple of bottles of wine compliant with what customs allows.

Bensbach is operated by Trans Niugini Tours, the largest owner of lodges in PNG who also have their own aircraft to simplify the transfer process.

Whilst it hosts a maximum of 16 guests, we’re basing our trips on groups of 6 to 9 anglers.

Access is gained by either private charter from Cairns via Daru or commercial flights from Brisbane to Mt Hagan and then a charter to Bensbach.

The price is A$8,890pp ex Mt Hagan. Flights from Brisbane to Mt Hagan will be around A$1,200pp.

Price Includes (based on 6 anglers):

6.5 days fully guided fishing with serious local knowledge
7 nights accommodation
Charter flights from Mt Hagan to Bensbach
All meals

Excluded:

Commercial flights to Mt Hagan
Alcoholic and soft drinks
We recommend bringing your own fishing gear and can advise on all aspects of this
Travel Insurance (strongly recommended)

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