#FishEagle: ‘Poison wind’ carry rains

Anglers got to enjoy perfect weather last Monday, but the moment was short lived with last Tuesday seeing those conditions blown away, literally.

Not a fisherman’s friend, south-easterly winds began to blow and these are sometimes called ‘poison wind’. With these winds came overcast conditions, and much rain which lasted throughout the weekend, continuing untill Tuesday creating unfavourable fishing conditions and widespread flooding.

Off-shore anglers are hoping for some fishing time during the long weekend, but I think that time spent at sea could be limited because of adverse weather. Hopefully, I am wrong and the guys can carry on casting lines for summer game fish. Recent catches have proved there are still decent fish around.

The recently held Umhlanga Ski Boat Club fishing competition was won by Jean Deysel, with an outsized yellowfin tuna. There were some off sized couta caught, too.

Rumours of snoek operating in the Umgeni area could see backline anglers in business trying out their favourite snoek-catching spots.

I believe there have been some really nice catches of couta near the backlines, but anglers will have to check sea conditions this coming long weekend before operating close in-shore. Reason being there could be unexpected and sudden waves which could catch anglers off guard.

In-shore anglers are unlikely to find any clean water with the flooding of all the rivers along the coast.

If there is any fishing to be had, most anglers will be fishing for edible species such as the stumpies, small salmon or kob and of course the pompano. Crustacean baits such as crayfish and sealice should produce the best results but anglers using prawn, and even chokka, could find fish on the bite.

Up-country anglers are bound to be here in numbers for the weekend. I recommend that they visit the local tackle shops or speak to local anglers to find out where the best angling spots are, and also where not to fish for safety reasons. Do not go fishing at night alone.

Ocean temperatures remain high, so anglers looking for big fish could look to the sandy beaches to try for sharks and big rays. Fresh fillets will produce the best results but, patience may be needed and the late afternoon periods could be the best options.

Those with spinning tackle could try the rocky deep water spots at Ballito or Sheffield Beach for snoek that have put in an appearance again. There has been lots of noise recently from the Durban off-shore anglers saying the snoek are back.

Stay safe and enjoy the Easter long weekend.