Fishing in Uzbekistan

Meet host Oybek Zukurhov, as he introduces a new series from the beautiful central Asian country of Uzbekistan. In this first episode, he is fishing on Lake Kuyimazar, a man made reservoir in the Bukhara Region in the South West of Uzbekistan. The reservoir is around 50 km2 with a maximum depth of 15m and contains a wide variety of fish including Common Carp. Grass Carp, Bream, Catfish and predators like Zander and Snakehead. After meeting some friends, they put out some groundbait and use small worms for hookbait. His friend explains that the fish are wild here and aren't susceptible to taking man made baits very readily so its important to use natural baits. Fish are hard to catch here in the day but as the sun sets over the desert, the fishing hots up and they catch a variety of species including, Carp, Grass Carp and Bream. While the fishing continues, Oybek helps his friend prepare some food, and they marinade some lamb pieces in spices and wine before digging a pit and slow cooking the lamb in the ground. A successful session ends with a  delicious meal amongst friends and a perfect way to end the trip.

Welcome back to the second installment of Fishing in Uzebekistan where we'll discover more about the fishing opportunities in this fascinating central Asian country. Host, Oybek is in Bukhara, one of the most ancient cities in the country, also known as the 'Pearl of the East' and will be fishing on Lake Devkhona which translates as Devil's Lair. On their way, Oybek shows us the beautiful Kyzyl Kum Desert and some of the wonderful flora and fauna that lives here. On arrival, Oybek and his friend Arthur need to find a spot to reach the bank as high cliffs surround much of the lake. Oybek tells us of a 4m long Catfish that was caught here last year and they are hopeful, but the best fishing is to be had at night when the bigger fish feed. With no immediate hurry as the sun is still beating down, they have a quick dip in the lake before setting up their rods, and ledgering some worm baits. They quickly start catching some small Carp which have a bright yellow colouring. As evening comes, they take a break and Arthur cooks up a bankside feast to end a nice relaxing day in the Devil's Lair.

In this episode of Fishing In Uzbekistan, the show travels deep into the desert to fish for predatory Zander on Lake Sichankul. The trip coincides with the grand Bukhara Silk and Spices Festival taking place across Uzbekistan, allowing the crew the chance to experience the rich history of this unique country. Far away from the festivities, hidden from human view in the lifeless Kashkadarya region lies the Sichankul oasis, home to all manner of sporting fish and wildlife. Using bottom bait techniques, the group search for the trophy Zander that thrive here. Fishing through burning sun, sandstorms, and tarantulas, it becomes obvious how much the Uzbeks value this lake and its treasures.

In this episode of Fishing In Uzbekistan, the show travels to Lake Tudakul to fish for feisty Snakehead. The adventure begins at the architectural wonder of the Poi Kalyan in Bukhara, a prime example of the underappreciated beauty of Uzbekistan. Pushing out into the desert, we come across the clear waters of Lake Tudakul. Upon arrival the group realises that the lake has just been drained to water the surrounding crops, making fishing difficult. Nevertheless, with a few wise words from local veterans, the surface soon erupts with hungry snakehead bites. Catching these small Snakehead on spinning tackle is fun, but our host want a bigger prize, so he goes in search of deeper pockets of water where he knows the monsters will be hiding.