Winter fishing heats up across KZN waters
Winter has brought garrick to dominate catches along the KZN coast from north to south. Whether you're planning a fishing trip or curious about what's happening in our waters, it's an active time along the shoreline.
The KwaZulu-Natal coastline is buzzing with action as garrick continue to dominate catches from the North Coast right down to the South Coast. While anglers are still waiting for the large sardine shoals to make a proper appearance, the fishing has remained exceptional.
In the latest Angler News South Africa podcast episode, Vinesh Soogreem and the crew report on the consistent action across rock, surf, offshore and inland waters.
North and South Coast rock and surf fishing
Rock and surf anglers have been enjoying consistent catches of garrick, kob, shad, stumpnose, kingfish, and the occasional shark. Baitfish activity is keeping predators feeding along much of the shoreline.
Conditions can change quickly during this time of year, and a seemingly quiet stretch of beach can come alive in minutes as baitfish move through.
Offshore action across KZN waters
The action has been just as exciting offshore. Garrick, couta, and snoek have featured strongly in catches, with live bait continuing to produce the best results. Trolling lures are also accounting for good fish, while bottom anglers have found success with kob and geelbek on chokka and sardine.
One of the biggest challenges offshore has been the enormous numbers of garfish in Durban waters, making it difficult for baits to reach their intended targets. Further south, tuna have provided plenty of excitement, with fast-diving lures producing memorable encounters.
Midlands freshwater fishing
Warmer winter conditions have kept freshwater anglers smiling. Yellowfish have been active in local rivers, with weighted nymph patterns producing excellent fish. Trout waters continue to show promise, while bass fishing remains relatively quiet, although Inanda Dam is still producing quality fish.
With the school holidays coming to an end and favourable weather windows still on the cards, there's plenty of opportunity to get out and enjoy KZN's fantastic fishing.
For all the hotspots and detailed reports, listen to the latest Angler News South Africa podcast 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 KZN 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.
