WATCH: Early sardine run hits KZN, surprises fisherfolk
The annual sardine run has made an early and dramatic entrance along the KwaZulu-Natal coast.
"Absolutely massive, it already started off with the breakaway shoals blowing our minds. We weren't ready for it. It kind of took us by surprise,” said local angler Vinesh Soogreem.
"But now that it is here, we can see how big it is and if these are the breakaway shoals, and we know there are massive shoals coming through from the Eastern Cape. We are in for one massive run this year."
Breakaway shoals have already been spotted between Port Edward and Scottburgh, where swollen nets were pulled in over the weekend.
READ: Sardine run kicks off on KZN south coast
According to the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board, one of those nets contained 21 sharks, all of which were released amid a visible feeding frenzy.
Netters also struck it lucky again this morning at Pennington and Rocky Bay.
Soogreem said aerial visuals from drones and light aircraft confirm the scale of the sardine activity moving in sync in a large dark cloud.
" We assumed they were going to come in about another two weeks’ time. So, the moment they hit the shores, it was unreal. So, everyone was geared up, anglers were out, the sardines were out, and everyone is in the water.
"Naturally, you know, the public is getting involved. So even guys that haven't held a fishing rod before are getting excited.
But the excitement comes with serious safety concerns.
Beaches along the South Coast have now been closed due to the heightened shark activity.
Shark nets have been removed to protect marine life, and people are strongly advised to stay out of the water.
" You know, you will see a lot of sardines just rolling up along the shore. Be careful, there are huge bronze whaler sharks. There are so many sharks, so many species that are coming and feeding off these. So, you do not want to go in there, and these sharks are coming up right up to about a metre of water.
"Although you think you are just up to your knees or your waist in that water picking up those sardines, there is also a 200-kilo shark that's picking up those sardines, and an accident could happen."
The sardine run is expected to intensify in the coming days, with shoals moving closer to Durban.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation, while locals are urged to enjoy the spectacle from a safe distance.
