Bass Digest August 2014 Issue 10 | Page 8

declare your fishing reels, rods, trolling motors, general tackle and give it all a value. Be sure to keep the copy they give you for your return trip. This is for their peace of mind to secure Botswana from illicit goods. Be sure to check out the Botswana Entry requirements and regulations webpage. They have some restrictions on Fruit, Veg, Meat, Alcohol, Cigarettes, etc... http://www.gov.bw/Visitors/topics/Entry-Requirements/Entry-Requirements/

Road Rules

Botswana traffic officials do not take lightly to road rule transgressors, so be careful and follow the speed limits. If you do get pulled over do not make the mistake of thinking that you can bribe your way out of it, as this could land you in a seriously gnarly situation. A colleague of mine who I was doing work with in Botswana a few years back tried his luck and almost ended up in jail.

So be sure to drive safe and try to avoid travelling at night as there are cattle, goats, and sheep all over the place. Emergency services have to travel from far out to get to you if anything should happen.

Accommodation

There are a few places to stay in Selebi-Phikwe and a few places just outside of the town. I have not had experience with any of the other venues, so I can only speak for Phokoje Bush Lodge where we spent our time. For more information on Phokoje’s rates and facilities visit their website

We made use of their Double chalet units, and it was great knowing that after a days hard fishing that you could make your way back to a air-conditioned unit with a shower and super comfortable bed. To top it off their restaurant has some great chow and is a fully licensed facility. Phokoje Bush Lodge gives anglers a

secure and peaceful haven with cold drinks to catch up with mates and recall your days giant catches.

Be sure to take advantage of their packed lunches that they provide to anglers.

Water Craft

Taking your own craft into Botswana has all kinds of hassles attached to it. There are at least 2 dozen regulations that you need to jump through to get a permit from the Botswana Water Affairs. However should you wish to go through the process you can

Bass Digest/August, 2014