Ep 0. Tribal Fishing

In this thrilling episode of River Monsters, titled "Tribal Fishing," renowned angler and biologist Jeremy Wade embarks on a captivating journey through the murky waters of remote tribal regions in search of some of the world's most elusive and dangerous fish species.

Setting off to uncover the truth behind mythical tales and mysterious disappearances, Wade ventures deep into the heart of these tribal communities to witness and participate in their age-old fishing practices. With his trusty fishing gear and boundless curiosity, he hopes to shed light on the unknown and separate fact from fiction.

As the episode begins, Wade makes his way to the pristine rivers of Papua New Guinea, where he is welcomed by the Korowai tribe, famed for living harmoniously with the wild waters around them. This isolated tribe has relied on fishing for generations, and their intimate knowledge of the aquatic realm is unparalleled. By observing and learning from these tribespeople, Wade hopes to gain valuable insights that could help him solve enduring piscine mysteries.

Immersing himself in their culture and joining their daily fishing routines, Wade witnesses the tribal people's incredible fishing prowess. From handcrafted wooden canoes, they spear their prey with astonishing accuracy and skill, showcasing techniques passed down through the ages. With each successful catch, Wade gains a deeper appreciation for the tribe's intricate relationship with the river and its inhabitants.

From Papua New Guinea, Wade's journey leads him to the tribal lands of the Amazon rainforest in Brazil. Here, he encounters the Kayapo tribe—an indigenous group that has relied on the rivers for sustenance and spiritual connection for centuries. Alongside the tribe, Wade navigates treacherous waters, hoping to come face to face with elusive species like the freshwater sawfish and the infamous red-bellied piranha.

Though much of his time is spent honing his angling skills and studying the tribes' indigenous techniques, Wade also delves into the lore and legends that surround these fish. He listens intently as the tribes recount tales of monstrous fish that lurk beneath the surface, invoking both fear and reverence. With his scientific background, Wade seeks to demystify these tales by piecing together scientific evidence that may coexist with ancient folklore.

The episode takes an exciting turn as Wade's quest brings him to the heartland of African tribal fishing—the remote Okavango Delta in Botswana. Here, he is captivated by the striking beauty of the landscape and the intricate dance between humans and wildlife. Wade is eager to learn the secrets of the Barbel Run, a phenomenon where massive catfish migrate upstream to feed upon unsuspecting spawning fish, creating a spectacle that has baffled scientists for years.

By immersing himself in local traditions and spending time with the Bayei tribe, Wade hopes to witness the Barbel Run firsthand while also better understanding the delicate balance of nature that enables such extraordinary migrations. As he ventures deeper into the delta's labyrinthine waterways, Wade experiences moments of both elation and frustration as he gets tantalizingly close to uncovering the truth behind this natural phenomenon.

"Tribal Fishing" is a captivating episode that explores the fascinating intersection between ancient tribal wisdom and modern scientific inquiry. Throughout his journey, Jeremy Wade captures the spirit of these tribal communities, their profound connection to the rivers, and their reliance on fishing as a means of survival. With his insatiable thirst for knowledge, Wade's quest takes audiences on a thrilling adventure while shedding light on the mysteries that continue to bewilder even the most intrepid explorers in the world of angling.