Fishing on the Wild Coast

Fishing is high on the agenda at Ferry Point, with both the river-mouth and ocean right on the doorstep.

The Wild Coast is a fisherman's paradise. There has been no large-scale development in the region, due to its historical and physical isolation, as well as the establishment of Marine Protected Areas up and down the coast. The situation with land ownership is also very different in this part of SA, with most being owned and administered by tribal authorities.

This is an environment of natural estuaries, with no piers or marinas, very few boats and no jetskis. The Umzimvubu River is South Africa's 4th largest, and it has never been dammed. As a result, it's as Mother Nature intended, and remains a good breeding ground and safe haven for the development of juvenile fish. Fish stocks are very healthy, and almost as they were a century ago.

It offers a wide variety of angling, both saltwater and freshwater. There is rock and surf fishing, and deep-sea charters are available. There is also a real meneer of a river, as well as bass fishing at the nearby Bulolo lake. Fly fishing is also always an option.

Species of fish to be found are the same as on KZN's South Coast: Cob, Spotted Grunter (Salmon), and Shad, although without any depletion in stocks due to overfishing.

The Sardine Run is an annual event between June and August, with Ferry Point having a grandstand view of the action. Fishing competitions include the annual Grunter Classic.

The Wild Coast is also famous for its abundance of crayfish and mussels. It's a great place - unspoiled and untamed. A beautiful, tranquil setting for a nice social braai with a few drinks once the fishing's done.