Fishing for Giants: Rob Vaz’s Taimen Adventure in Mongolia
With: robfish.co.nz
We caught up with Rob Vaz, an avid angler and artist, to hear about his once-in-a-lifetime trip to Mongolia to target Taimen—the world’s largest salmonid. In this interview, Rob shares the unforgettable moments, challenges, and tips for chasing these legendary fish in one of the most remote and breathtaking fishing destinations on the planet.
Rob, what inspired you to travel to Mongolia and target Taimen, the largest salmonid species in the world?
Mongolia has been on my radar for many years, I’ve had good European friends that have shared stories of this magnificent country, people and the fish. The fish are incredible but firstly such a rich history, wild and unique landscape. More recently the trip became available purely because a lot of the trip planning was already taken care of by a good friend of mine whom has visited a few times before. And of course click bait pictures of a few jaw dropping size fish
Can you share some of the unique challenges you faced while fishing for Taimen in Mongolia, Rob?
It takes a lot of planning to get there especially from New Zealand. So, it’s important that you go prepared for weather and have suitable equipment. The fish are very sensitive to conditions and use a lot of energy to feed. One of the challenges is being prepared to cast and cover as much water as possible as the rivers can be wide. Additionally being ready at all times for a top water explosion of an eat. Depending on the seasons Taimen can be feeding top water on small rodent looking flies: ie mouse. Or subsurface on Grayling streamer type patterns.
What was the most memorable moment from your trip to Mongolia, particularly when targeting these incredible fish?
Catching fish in remote waters is always special I was lucky enough to catch a few large Taimen sighted in clear rivers. One fish landed on a large bully nymph and other on streamer. Seeing a big fish eat in close gets the heart pumping … that’s for sure!
How did the fishing experience in Mongolia compare to other destinations you’ve fished, Rob?
Mongolia was incomparable because of the vast nature we fished in, a remote country added to the risk, challenge and excitement. Part of being so far away from civilization was a unique experience as a good part of the trip we were camping in not 5 star accommodation. And again it was a long, long way to get there!
Rob, what tips would you give to someone planning a trip to Mongolia to target Taimen for the first time?
Be prepared that not every question has a straight answer when dealing with another culture. Do your homework with the operators you travel with to ask basics questions that includes your pickup, transport, meals. The country is full of amazing people whom value hospitality, this is something to admire and ensure your local guides are paid well for their service. Many foreign operators guide from Mongolia however it’s about preserving the Mongolian culture and there fishery that’s important so learn as much as you can about the people… then the fish will follow. I would advise to get your medical shots up to date, take plenty of medical supplies, warm clothes and safety equipment for emergency.
