Offshore anglers made the most of settled weather and good surf-launch conditions last week as solid game fish action was found in most popular areas.

Average water temperatures of around 25°C ensured hotspots off Ballito, Tongaat and Umdloti, in particular, produced quality fish. Couta were the standout, with anglers reporting consistently good sizes. Snoek held strong along the backline, while dorado are starting to show more regularly again. Further offshore, yellowfin tuna are becoming more common, with a few bigger fish landed.

Reef fishing also produced, with soldiers, Englishman, rockcod and the odd captain fin featuring in catches, along with stumpies, rubberlips and lantern bream on the shallower reefs. Sharks and big rays added an extra challenge.

In contrast, rock and surf anglers had a tough week, with scattered shad and stumpies reported. Larger sharks remain active, with the Tugela north bank worth a look. Cleaner water could be key to improved conditions in the days ahead.

Meanwhile, the Durban Ski Boat Club interclub tournament proved competitive, with 25 teams taking part and Park Rynie Ski Boat Club claiming top honours. Catches included a 22kg couta, two sailfish and a mix of snoek and dorado. Sharks, however, accounted for several lost fish, adding to the usual “one that got away” tales.

Attention now shifts to the Umhlanga Rocks Ski Boat Club Festival this weekend, one of the angling community’s most anticipated events. With launches spread along the coastline and a popular public weigh-in at Umhlanga, another strong turnout is expected.