Sardine head tip for Durban harbour

Some anglers have had good fishing in the harbour on the weekend, trying to escape the rough seas off Durban.

Grunter seem to be on the bite and there is no doubt that the amount of kingfish being caught has not declined in the last week.

Anglers are still flocking to the bay to try out the light tackle fun and many have been successful, mainly early in the mornings at sunrise using small lures.

Trips down in the afternoon do not need to be limited to spinning for game fish, as the same spinning gear can be used for targeting grunter and a variety of different species off the piers and sand banks.

The standard running trace which consists of a 1/4- 1/2oz egg or ball sinker, 10-15lb leader and a small Mustad size 4 or 6 carp hook is utilised. 

Cracker is used by the majority of the harbour fishing fraternity, due to its high success rate and the ease of use. It is not a messy bait and can be relatively easily to acquire.

A permit is required. However, it does not cost much and can be obtained from your closest post office. The vast majority of the fish species in our harbour feed on cracker as a staple diet and will not be able to turn up the opportunity to snack on these tasty treats if used as bait.

Sardine head is a popular bait for those who wish to target stumpies, rock salmon, rock cod and the larger grunter. A larger hook is required for this bait, normally around a 4/0 Mustad. Thicker leader between 20lb-30lb is preferred for the abrasion resistance against teeth, rocks and anything else that may get between you and your catch. Heavier tackle such as a size 4000 reel and heavier braided line around the 20-30lb mark will also land more of these larger species.

(File Photo: Office of the KZN Premier)

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