LISTEN | KZN sardine run 2026: Early sardine sightings reported off south coast
Early sardine sightings off the KZN south coast signal the 2026 sardine run could arrive within weeks ahead of the school holidays.
KwaZulu-Natal’s famous sardine run may be just around the corner, with early sightings already reported off the province’s south coast.
Sardine sightings have been reported this week just off KwaZulu-Natal's south coast.
Vinesh Soogreem from Angling Times says kayak fishermen spotted small shoals near Mkhambathi, just south of Port Edward.
" So there was footage of it and they were proper sardines, not like bait fish. So the guys had an inkling that they might be out yesterday (Thursday), and they were ready. But nothing came through and there wasn't any wild bird life or dolphin activity as yet. However, they are all ready because they feel it could come any day now," says Soogreem.
Soogreem says conditions suggest the sardines could arrive at any time, although warmer water temperatures and limited wind may be slowing the migration slightly.
He believes the main action is still likely within the next two to three weeks — just in time for the school holidays.
For the public who's interested in catching some fish or just spectating, Soogreem had some advice.
" You have to be on standby and be ready to go. When the news comes out, guys are lining up ready to get down there. When you're out there, guys pulling nets in, just make sure you stay clear of that.
"There were incidents last year where ropes went over people, guys got injured, dragged .Don't go anywhere near it. Once the guys are done, once the nets are fully onto the beach, then go and pick up your blue sardines off the side."
Listen to the full conversation here:
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