With rods in hand and hearts set on aiding these causes, participants cast their lines into the waters, aiming for both the thrill of the catch and the chance to make a difference. “Over two nights of spirited angling, 40 dedicated competitors managed to raise over R9 500 proving that their passion for fishing is matched only by their generosity,” said Amy Aucamp-Clark of Scales Conservation Fund. “But it wasn’t just about the fundraising; it was about the camaraderie and the shared love for nature.”

“In the u/16 category, young angler Tanya Buitendag emerged as the star of the competition, showcasing her fishing prowess by clinching multiple titles,” AucampClark said. Tanya not only took home the award for the most caught fish with a tally of 9 but also secured the title for cumulative length, boasting a total of 310cm.

Also read: Playing for conservation at Scales Sports Arena

Tanya’s crowning achievement came with the capture of the biggest bass of the weekend, measuring an impressive 51cm. “In the adult categories, it was Hannes Buitendag who dominated the waters, securing the titles for both the most caught fish, with 21 catches, and a cumulative length of 645cm.”

Individual honours were also awarded to Tokkie Vermaak for the biggest barber, measuring an impressive 57cm, Brenda Aucamp-Clark for her sizable catch of a 48cm bass, and Elouise Halton for reeling in the only carp of the event, measuring a whopping 85cm,” she said. The organisers of the Bait for The Cause thanked Klaserie Dam, as well as the local businesses who donated prizes and whose support made the event possible.