ONON RIVER TAIMEN

150 cm 60 inch Taimen

Onon River Record

ONON RIVER TAIMEN

Experience the adventure of a lifetime as you journey into the heart of Mongolia’s untamed wilderness, seeking out the legendary “River Wolf” known as the Taimen on the enigmatic ONON River. This incredible expedition kicks off in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s vibrant capital, offering you a chance to immerse yourself in local culture, explore bustling markets, and savour indigenous cuisine that leaves an indelible mark on your heart.

fly fish mongolia — From left: On a recent Hosted adventure – Tulga, Peter, Tulga Cleola, Ross, Sandy and Baggy

Your expedition begins in the vibrant heart of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, where you’ll immerse yourself in the local culture, explore bustling markets, and savour indigenous cuisine that will leave an indelible mark on your heart. The warmth of the Mongolian people will touch your soul.

Ulaabaatar — Ulaanbaatar – Mongolia’s capital city the coldest city in the world.

From there, your real adventure begins with a rugged 10 to 12-hour 4WD drive through the boundless Mongolian wilderness, where endless rolling hills, nomadic yurts, and herds of horses stretch as far as the eye can see. This is not a journey for the faint-hearted, it’s a sacred pilgrimage to take on the enigmatic Taimen.

But you won’t be alone on this endeavor. You’ll be joined by an elite crew of seasoned guides and camp staff, masterfully organized by Worldwide Angler and Mongolian River Outfitters, ensuring top-notch guidance and gear.

Fishing Mongolia — From left: Recent hosted trip to Upper river trip – Ross Dive, Sandy Montague, Riena and Brian Cooper, Frank and Cleola

Over six exhilarating days, you’ll float down the ONON River, casting your lines for the legendary Taimen. Traditional Ger-style camps will provide shelter and warmth after long days on the water. Each morning, as the sun rises, the ONON River flanked by the picturesque Mongolian landscape will take your breath away. The fast-moving waters are home to soaring eagles, and glimpses of Mongolian wildlife will remind you of the untamed wilderness.

mongolia river fly fishing — Leaving camp in the morning for a days fishing.

Most recent Hosted trip OCT 2023

On a recent expedition, an angler felt a powerful tug on their line, leading to an epic battle and the capture of a magnificent 112-centimeter Taimen, a monumental catch and a dream come true. Two days later, another angler faced an even fiercer adversary, managing to land a staggering 150-centimeter Taimen, setting a new ONON River record.

150cm 60inch Onon River Taimen

Upper Onon River Ger Camp, Mongolia:

In the evenings, you’ll set up camp in traditional Ger-style tents, feasting on hearty meals and sharing tales under the star-studded sky.

During the evenings, you’ll set up camp in traditional Ger-style tents, feasting on hearty meals and sharing tales under the star-studded sky. Throughout your journey, the guides of Mongolian River Outfitters will provide invaluable guidance, ensuring a seamless and memorable adventure. Mongolia’s nights will be filled with stars and the haunting calls of the wild, making this expedition an unforgettable chapter in your adventurous life.

The fishing season aligns with the splendid Mongolian autumn in September and October when deciduous leaves paint the landscape with a riot of colors. Although it’s a cooler time of year, it’s also possible to target Lenok Trout, Amur Pike, and Grayling. Amur Trout, known for their striking beauty, provide fantastic dry fly, nymph, and streamer fishing opportunities, growing up to 8-10 lbs.

The river presents fresh challenges and victories every day, with Amur trout and Amur pike joining the Taimen. As your journey nears its end, you’ll feel a deep connection to Mongolia’s wild beauty, with unforgettable fishing experiences, traditional Ger camps, camaraderie, and monumental Taimen catches turning this adventure into a lifelong treasure.

Amur Trout Onon River — Frank with a Amur trout

Amur Pike

Pike often appear as by-catch in backwaters, some growing to over 40 inches.

Your expedition will conclude in Ulaanbaatar, where you’ll further immerse yourself in Mongolian culture, exploring monasteries and delving into history. This odyssey embodies the indomitable spirit of adventure, connecting you with a remote, untamed land and the majestic Taimen of the ONON River. Join this unforgettable journey and make memories that will last a lifetime. With bags packed and hearts filled with adventure, you’ll bid farewell to Mongolia, vowing to return to this land of wonder and untamed rivers, cherishing the memories of the ONON River’s legendary Taimen forever.