A commercial fisherman has come under fire from some residents for launching his boat from Salt Rock’s main beach, despite holding a special permit to do so.

EW Versteijnen (57) has faced accusations of illegally launching from the Blue Flag beach, prompting social media backlash and on-site confrontations over bather safety and traffic congestion caused by his tractor and boat blocking access.

“The biggest issue is access to the beach. People park in the ‘no parking’ and disabled bays, blocking my access,” said Versteijnen.

Historically, fishermen launched about 600 metres south of Salt Rock main beach at a spot known as Catfish, but environmental restrictions have since closed that route.

With 33 years’ experience, Versteijnen insists he does everything possible to minimise disruption.

“We launch and beach as early and late as possible to avoid peak times. We are usually out to sea by 5.15am and return after 6pm, depending on the wind,” he said.

Versteijnen is one of only two commercial fishermen operating between Umhlanga and Blythedale. Since February, he has been forced to launch at Salt Rock after being evicted from the Umhlali Ski Boat Club by Club Med developers Tinley Leisure, who closed public access to the beach during construction.

READ MORE: Ski boat club members battle Club Med for launch site control | North Coast Courier

He applied for and received a special permit from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, a process that took four months. The permit, valid until July 31, 2027, or until the Umhlali/Tinley Manor public launch site reopens, is supported by KwaDukuza municipality, EDTEA and the KZN Sharks Board.

Alternative sites proved impractical. Blythedale requires a 2.5km trek through sugarcane, dunes and swamp. Westbrook has no secure parking and Versteijnen does not hold a permit for Salmon Bay.

“I have to adhere to my permit conditions and Salt Rock is the only feasible option,” he said.

“Where do I leave my tractor? Will it be there when I return? My house is 300m from the beach and here I know it’s safe from theft, which also means I’m safer.”

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