THE MOST EXPERIENCED FRESHWATER & ESTUARINE FISHING TEAM IN PAPUA
Choosing the right fishing operator can make or break your adventure. You need a team that is highly experienced, deeply skilled, and fully immersed in the unique challenges of fishing Papua’s remote rivers, lakes, and estuaries.
With more than 22 years of exploration and guiding in Indonesia and Western Papua, Papua River Retreat delivers all three. Guests can rest assured they will be fishing the most productive waters, at the best times of year, guided by one of the most respected names in the industry, and supported by expert tribal teams who provide access to areas no other outfitter can reach.
OLIVIER HELLOCO
Founder and Lead Guide, Olivier Helloco, from, France, has built his career on pioneering exploration across Indonesia. Beginning in the early 2000s with expeditions to Biak and the Padaido Archipelago in search of GTs, red bass, and dogtooth tuna, Olivier was among the first to fish many of Papua’s most remote waters.
In 2012, a trek into the mountains of Yapen introduced him to a new obsession: the mighty Papuan Bass. That first explosive strike on a spinnerbait sparked a passion that has since defined his life’s work. Over the last two decades, Olivier has led more than 75 exploratory expeditions across the islands, rivers, and lakes of Irian Jaya and Western Papua, mapping untouched fisheries and developing techniques to target some of the most powerful freshwater predators on Earth.
Today, he is recognised as one of the leading authorities on Papuan sportfishing, blending world-class angling expertise with unparalleled cultural and logistical knowledge. His ability to navigate not only the waters but also the 325+ dialects and unique traditions of Papua makes him an indispensable part of every guest’s journey.
A UNIQUE PARTNERSHIP WITH PAPUA’S TRIBES
What sets Papua River Retreat apart is our deep relationship with local tribal communities. Our support teams — drawn from the very villages and cultures that line the rivers and lakes we fish — bring generations of knowledge, unmatched access, and true authenticity.
From navigating remote waterways, to sourcing fresh prawns and crabs from tribal fishermen, to introducing guests to traditional artefacts and cultural practices, our tribal partners transform each trip into more than just a fishing holiday — they make it a cultural journey through one of the last true frontiers.
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