Shad and garrick influx lights up KZN fishing
A recent cold front disrupted fishing along the KZN coast, but plenty of rewards await anglers prepared to fish the weather windows. Shad are providing non-stop action, making it the perfect time to get beginners out on the water. Get the full report.
The recent cold front may have disrupted fishing along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline, but there have still been plenty of rewards for anglers prepared to fish the weather windows. Shad remain the star attraction from the shore, providing non-stop action.
In the latest episode of Angler News South Africa, Vinesh Soogreem and the crew report on what's biting across the province as conditions improve ahead of the weekend.
Coastal fishing across KZN regions
Along the North Coast, anglers continue to report good catches of garrick, kob, snoek, and couta, with live bait proving particularly effective. The Central Coast has produced a steady mix of shad, garrick, and snoek, while deeper reefs continue to deliver kob and geelbek. Further south, Aliwal Shoal and surrounding reefs have produced exciting catches of garrick and tuna, with trolling lures accounting for much of the action.
With calmer seas forecast, prospects for the weekend are looking increasingly promising.
Midlands freshwater fishing
Heavy rainfall and snowfall across the Midlands have given rivers and dams a welcome boost ahead of the trout river season opening on 1 September. Prior to the cold weather, trout anglers reported good catches, including several fish over 50cm, while yellowfish were active in the lower Umkomaas River. Bass fishing remains slow on public waters, although Inanda Dam recently produced 10 fish over the 50cm mark during a competition.
Anglers travelling through the Midlands are reminded that Foot and Mouth Disease biosecurity protocols remain in place and should be strictly observed.
For all the hotspots and detailed reports, listen to Angler News South Africa 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.
