It’s officially Kobtober: KZN fishing fires up for spring
Kobtober is here, and KZN anglers are finding plenty of action along the coast and inland waters.
It’s officially Kobtober, with kob continuing to dominate the KwaZulu-Natal coastline as improving spring conditions bring a variety of species into play.
Kobtober brings plenty of action along the KZN coast
Kob remain a major target along the coastline, with recent catches also including brusher, stumpnose, grunter, bronze bream and black musselcracker, particularly around the Durban North and Umhlanga stretches. Grey sharks, diamond rays and honeycomb rays have also added some excitement for anglers targeting larger fish.
Anglers are reminded that the shad season is currently closed and will reopen on 1 December. Durban Bay continues to produce quality grunter and kob, while the approaching springer season gives anglers another species to look forward to.
Offshore action improves as water temperatures rise
Offshore anglers have also made the most of favourable weather windows, with geelbek, daga salmon, Englishman, scottsman, slinger and rockcod among the catches being reported.
Yellowfin tuna are starting to make their presence felt as water temperatures rise, adding further excitement to the offshore fishing scene. With conditions improving and fish on the move, the KZN coastline is offering plenty of opportunities as spring settles in.
Freshwater fishing gets a boost
Inland, decent rainfall has lifted dam levels across the Midlands and improved conditions throughout many freshwater systems. Trout rivers have recovered following a slow start to the season, although stronger flows and occasional discoloured water are still presenting challenges.
Stillwaters continue to produce quality trout, while the Underberg Himeville Trout Festival delivered some impressive catches before the weather turned. Bass fishing has also improved at Midmar, Albert Falls and Mearns Dams, with good numbers being reported as spring conditions settle in.
Anglers travelling through the Midlands are reminded that Foot and Mouth Disease biosecurity protocols remain in place and should be strictly observed.
Catch more info in Vinesh Soogreem’s full Angler News SA podcast report at the top of the page, or directly below:
About Vinesh Soogreem
Vinesh Soogreem is a legend in the South African fishing media scene. With over two decades under his belt, he's not just an angler who's explored the KwaZulu-Natal waters extensively, but also a passionate communicator who's shared his knowledge through books, magazines, and now podcasts and social media. Vinesh lives by the motto "Fish for the future", reflecting his dedication to both the sport and conservation.
Vinesh's authority on KZN fishing is unmatched. Actively involved in the community since the '90s, he's competed at club and social levels, covered major angling competitions, and earned the trust of the media during the Sardine Run. He currently serves as the National Media Liaison for the South African Surf Casting Association, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the South African fishing scene.
