Great read ****ie.
I spent 2 weeks in the north in 05. Just the one 17lb fish over that period. We mainly concentrated on lures, that was the method recomended by our guide.
I'm not convinced Mahseer are predatory though. I suspect that may take lures out of annoyance, or perhaps to protect their territory. It was notable that only 4-5 inch lures produced the fish, bigger patterns failed completely.
We spent 1 week fishing the Ganges. This was a torrent, no need to worry about concealing yourself.
The second week was on a smaller tributary, a clear, sedate water. These fish were extremely spooky. If they detected you they were off, and wouldn't return all day. More spooky than our own Chub!!
I'm going out to India for 6 months shortly, I may well make some time for the river of the south.
Looking forward to part 2!