With just one small net of sardines hauled in at Amanzimtoti on Friday, this year’s incredibly successful run has almost wrapped up.

More fish were netted this year than expected, while mostly favourable sea conditions contributed to excellent returns. Surf anglers also enjoyed some hectic fishing when the sardines moved inshore, catching trophy fish and a few unexpected species as the winter fishing season kicked off.

Some notable catches were reported on the South Coast, where salmon, bronze bream and prized brusher were hooked among the usual shad and garrick. Those fishing off Margate Pier said yellowtail were being caught by anglers targeting shad, while sandbanks along the coast have made conditions difficult.

Closer to home last week, anglers faced strong winds and rough seas, which limited beach time. Those who braved the cold found a few shad and garrick at first light in Ballito and at the Tongaat River mouth respectively. Anglers fishing in the afternoons reported that grey sharks have returned in numbers.

The rocky outcrops and gullies served up decent returns, including good-sized brusher, large pinkies and plenty of blacktail. The rough water should have been ideal for bronze bream, but very few were caught locally.

Offshore anglers were limited by sea conditions, with only three fishable days throughout the week. A few snoek and garrick were caught along the backline, while the inshore reefs produced the usual bottom fish.

Looking ahead, more wind is, unfortunately, forecast for this week.

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