HOEDSPRUIT – The Southern Cross Schools (SCS) College Environmental Crux Committee hosted its second Fishing for a Cause competition at Klaserie Dam, attracting 38 enthusiastic anglers.

Although participants had to contend with windy conditions, spirits remained high as competitors reeled in an impressive 174 fish, the majority of which were bass, along with six barbel.

The event, now in its second year, was established to combine a love of fishing with environmental responsibility. All funds raised will be donated to the Scales Environmental Fund, the Endangered Wildlife Trust, and the Cape Vulture Nature Reserve.

Prizes were awarded in men’s, women’s and junior (u/12) categories, covering four divisions: biggest bass, biggest carp, biggest barbel and longest cumulative distance. With no carp caught on the day, the carp prizes were raffled off, ensuring every entrant stood a chance to win.

Winners on the day included:

• Biggest bass: Noël Kloppers (36cm), Monica Roux (54cm) and Nathan Maritz (55cm)
• Biggest barbel: Darius Grobler (73cm) and Christiaan Grobler (75cm)
• Longest distance: Riaan de Beer (514cm), Amy Aucamp-Clark (908cm) and Christiaan Grobler (322cm)

Event organisers praised the determination of anglers, particularly the junior competitors, who fished tirelessly throughout the day. “We are incredibly proud of the commitment shown by all participants. It was inspiring to see families and friends coming together, not only for the thrill of competition but also for the greater cause of conservation,” Alex Adams of SCS said.

The success of the competition was made possible by the support of local businesses and community members.

Sponsors contributed over R20 000 worth of prizes, with support coming from Elandskloof, Pick n Pay Hoedspruit, Spar Hoedspruit, FNB Hoedspruit, Solli Design Co., The Cap Company, Canyon Hardware Kampersrus, The Brewery, Spur, Tactical & Outfitter Tzaneen, The Clubhouse, On Demand Solutions Kampersrus, Buck & Berg, The Great Outdoors, Crystal Mountain Day Spa, the (little) bookshop, Karuna Day Spa, The Gelato Spot, Gold of Africa, Build it Hoedspruit, Obaro Hoedspruit, Efron Property Investment, Tech Rescue and FISH.