Summer action heating up: What to expect along the KZN coast
Despite a week of rough weather, KZN anglers found fishable windows and were rewarded with quality catches. Kob dominated the beaches on live bait after dark, while offshore and inland fishing also delivered solid action. Here's what was caught across the coast and KZN Midlands this long weekend.
Despite rough conditions limiting opportunities offshore, KZN anglers who found fishable windows were rewarded with quality catches across the coast and inland waterways.
Coastal fishing highlights across KZN
Along the beaches, kob remains the headline species, particularly on live bait after dark. Stumpnose, grunter, garrick, bronze bream, blacktail and rockcod have all featured in catches, with non-edible action also improving. Grey sharks, spinner sharks, honeycomb rays and sand sharks are making regular appearances.
Offshore, snoek, couta, yellowfin tuna, yellowtail, geelbek and daga salmon kept boats busy despite challenging conditions. Durban Bay continues to produce impressive grunter and kingfish. With summer edging closer and predator activity increasing, there's plenty of excitement along the KZN coastline.
Inland waters firing in the KZN Midlands
The Midlands remains in desperate need of substantial rainfall, although forecasts are showing promising signs of incoming rain and colder weather. Trout anglers have reported encouraging catches from the uMngeni and Mooi Rivers. Yellowfish continue to thrive in the clear waters of the Umkomaas, uMzimkhulu and Tugela systems, offering excellent sight-fishing opportunities.
Stillwaters are producing consistent trout catches, while Midmar, Albert Falls, Inanda and Hazelmere have all reported improving bass fishing as fish move through their spawning cycle. Carp catches at Midmar have also been encouraging, with several quality fish reported.
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.
