The sardine run came to life last Tuesday when netters hauled in substantial catches at Ramsgate and Mtwalume on the South Coast.

The successful nettings followed several days of searching after the season’s first hauls the week prior were landed in rough seas and moderate southerly conditions. Decent numbers of sardines were caught throughout the week from pilot shoals moving along the coast.

By Friday however, fresh southerly winds and a heavy swell brought operations to a halt. Over the weekend, netters searched from Scottburgh to Port Edward at first light but found no sign of sardines. Reports suggest the main shoals are still north of Port Elizabeth and moving steadily towards KwaZulu-Natal.

Sardine fever has gripped the South Coast, with crowds gathering wherever nets are pulled. While many hope to secure a few fish, caution is advised. Injuries can occur when people venture too close to working nets and netters are understandably protective of their gear. Buyers should also be wary of adverts offering “fresh sardines,” as old bait pilchards are sometimes misrepresented as sardines. Fresh sardines spoil quickly in Natal’s warmer waters and should be used promptly.

Meanwhile, surf anglers enjoyed some action around the shoals, with snoek, shad and garrick landed on the South Coast. Once the sardines moved on, catches slowed dramatically. Closer to Durban and along the North Coast, shad and garrick featured in catches at first light, while kob continued to provide reliable night-time action. A few quality stumpnose and grunter have also been reported.

Offshore, the gamefish grounds from Umdloti to Ballito continue producing barracouta, while the excellent snoek run shows little sign of slowing. Shark activity appears to have eased and backline anglers are enjoying opportunities for garrick.

Bottom fishing remains outstanding whenever sea conditions allow. Daga salmon, musselcracker, soldiers, Englishman, Scotsman and various rockcod species are all featuring in catches. Live bait remains plentiful, with mackerel the preferred option for anglers targeting couta, garrick and other predators. Reports from the bait reefs also include GT kingfish, snoek, grunter and the occasional shark.