Hilma Nalupe 

When most Namibians think of sport, football, rugby, or athletics usually come to mind. But this week, a small group of dedicated anglers is making history on the international stage, representing Namibia at the XIX Black Bass World Championships in South Africa. Bass angling is a boat-based sport where only bass are targeted using artificial lures, with rankings determined by the combined weight of an angler’s five biggest fish. While it remains relatively unknown locally, Namibia has been part of the international bass angling community for nearly two decades. 

Namibia’s best results to date include a silver medal at the regional level and seventh place at the World Championships. 

This year’s championships take place at Arabie Dam in Limpopo. Team Namibia has spent the past three months preparing, studying maps of the venue and travelling to the dam two weeks ago for on-site practice. Expectations are high, with the squad aiming for a podium finish. 

For Vice Chairman of the Namibia Bass Angling Association, Richard Grant, the moment carries weight. “The World Championships is the pinnacle of team bass angling globally. To represent Namibia on the global stage is the ultimate and we are all extremely proud to fly the Namibian flag internationally,” he said. 

Beyond competition, the association is focused on growing the sport at home, with development events and junior programmes. It also promotes catch-and-release practices to ensure sustainability. 

The event began on the 1st of September with three practice days, followed by three official tournament days, concluding with Saturday’s closing ceremony. 

-hilmanalupe@gmail.com