Happy New Year to All Fishing Enthusiasts in South Africa!
As we welcome the dawn of 2025, we extend our warmest wishes to every angler, from the seasoned experts to those just starting their fishing journey, across South Africa. The excitement for the year ahead is palpable, and we can’t help but look forward to the countless moments we’ll spend on the water, chasing big catches, testing new tackle, and making unforgettable memories with friends and family. Whether it’s a tranquil morning on the riverbanks, a thrilling deep-sea adventure, or a quiet day casting off the shore, we know the waters will once again provide us with plenty of joy and challenge. Here’s to more fish, more laughter, and more breathtaking moments in 2025!
Offshore:
The seas have mellowed out this past week, and the action along the KZN coastline is heating up! Anglers are reeling in plenty of fish, making the waters come alive with excitement and anticipation. The catch of the week? You bet—there’s something for everyone!
North Coast:
The North Coast is absolutely on fire! The gamefish action is off the charts, with Dorado stealing the show. These beauties are coming in strong, and the size? Simply massive! Compared to their southern and central counterparts, the Dorado up north are real giants! Alongside these monsters, Tuna numbers are also impressive—making the North Coast the place to be for epic fishing.
Central Coast:
The Central Coast has had its fair share of Dorado, and the sizes are certainly growing by the day. The hottest feeding zones are still near ships and floating debris for increased strike rates. Bottom fishing is still firing up the scene, keeping the action alive even as the season winds down.
South Coast:
The South Coast is absolutely blazing! Dorado have been the stars of the show, with some incredible catches coming in alongside a variety of other gamefish. Tuna are also making their mark, with solid specimens caught on both lures and bait. The South Coast is the place to be right now if you want to feel the rush of a big catch with the summer vibes.
Rock and Surf:
The summer season is in full swing, and the coast is alive with excitement! Fish are biting, and anglers are reeling in their fair share of catches, making for some unforgettable days on the water.
North Coast:
The North Coast is buzzing with solid inedible action! The Sandsharks are here in full bloom and with this warmer weather we are bound to make this a summer to remember with PB’s on the cards with this specie. Summer flatfish are hungry and eagerly taking those fleshy fish baits. For the best results, go with heavy monofilament, large circle hooks, and top-tier components. And it’s not just sandies you might encounter—there’s a chance to hook into honeycombs, brown skates, sharks, or even some big edibles. The thrill of the unknown is what makes it all so exciting!
Central Coast:
The fishing along the Durban beachfront has been a bit tricky lately,—patience is key! Everyone deserves to enjoy the beach, and as the day winds down, the fishing picks up. Night sessions have been producing excellent catches of flatfish and smaller grey sharks nearly every night, making it all worth the wait.
South Coast:
The South Coast is still buzzing with a wave of inland visitors, and while some areas are packed, there are still plenty of spots where you can cast your line in peace. The rocky outcrops are a haven for edible anglers, while the deeper water points have been producing some massive summer giants! Chokka and mackerel are your go-to baits for success. So, if you’re up for the challenge, the South Coast is ready to deliver!
Freshwater:
The freshwater fishing scene is thriving, with bass, carp, tilapia, and more filling our rivers and dams. It’s a time of opportunity and excitement—get out there and make the most of it!
Bass:
Bass fishing is on fire, even with the occasional rainy spell. The early mornings and late afternoons are your golden windows—bass tend to be sluggish midday, so time your casts for the best chances. Topwater frogs are absolutely the way to go, especially in those weed-filled areas. When fishing in thick cover, be sure to use 50lb braid or stronger—because you’ve got to be ready for those explosive bites!
Carp:
It’s full steam ahead for summer carp fishing! The fruity flavors, especially banana, are a winning choice for both specimen and conventional anglers. Whether you’re using boilies or mielies, make sure to stick with those sweet, fruity options. The fish are hungry and ready to bite—so seize the moment!
Trout:
Trout fishing has slowed down a bit with the warmer weather, but don’t let that discourage you. Keep an eye on water temperatures, as warmer dams can be dangerous for the fish. Check in with your local tackle shop for advice on keeping things safe. However, river fishing is still going strong, as long as the water flow remains steady. Heavy flies can make a difference when needed—so stay prepared and keep casting! The fish are there, and the rewards are just waiting for you!
Series 23 (can you believe it; this is Petri’s 23 series) of Hier Gaan Ons Alweer on kykNET, premieres are on from the 6th of January 2025 on Monday evenings at 17:30 on kykNet, channel 144 and there are a number of repeats during the week. The repeats are on Tuesday’s at 11:00, Wednesday’s at 10:00, Thursday’s at 11:30 & Friday’s at 14:30. Series 23 ends on the 31st of March 2025.
As most of you know, Petri and his guests cover various angling styles (fresh and salt water) in and around Southern Africa.
The KZN Angler News audio fishing report is South Africa’s first fishing podcast series that focuses on the latest fishing reports of the East Coast. This report is free and available on all major Podcast platforms including Apple Pods, Google Pods, Spotify and Deezer as well as SA’s most popular Facebook Pages.
https://www.ecr.co.za/podcasts/ansa
For the best in tackle and advice, pop into any of the seven Kingfisher stores, they are open 8am-5pm Mon-Fri, 8am-1pm on public holidays, Saturdays and Sundays. The Kingfisher has opened their new store on the upper north coast. Situated in the Tiffany’s Shopping Centre in Salt Rock, pop in and see them or give them a shout on 032 307 0041.
Go to www.facebook.com/thekingfisherdaiwa and “Like” us on Facebook to catch reviews, videos, fishing reports, great promotions and lots more.
As always, remember to subscribe to our YouTube channel to stay up to date with all our new video releases and to brush up on your species knowledge, tactics and tips/tricks.
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheKingfisherFishing Please send any info about fishing or fish caught in your area to vineshs@kingfisher.co.za