The answer is blowing in the wind

With persistent north-easterly winds along the Zululand coast, water temperatures have dropped significantly, resulting in brown-coloured water.

These conditions have brought about an increase in large sharks and rays, which are now dominating catches.

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The main species currently being landed include large ragged-tooth sharks, giant guitarfish, butterfly rays and honeycomb rays, with the occasional hammerhead shark making an appearance.

A notable highlight was a 41.5kg ignobilis kingfish, caught by Max Killian off the Mtunzini banks.

Further north, St Lucia has also been productive, yielding shad, honeycomb rays and giant guitarfish.

Wind and its effect on fishing

With many of our members away on holiday, there has been limited fishing activity to report.

This provides a good opportunity to share some basic but important information on how wind direction affects fishing conditions along the Zululand coastline.

I classify our coastal winds into four main categories:

1. Left-hand wind (north-easterly)

This wind cools water temperatures, flattens the sea, and discolours the water to a brown hue.

Two to three days of sustained north-easterlies typically trigger excellent fishing for sharks and rays, for which Zululand is well known.

2. Right-hand wind (south-westerly)

South-westerly wind generally warms the water, increases wave action, and results in cleaner water.

These conditions are more favourable for edible fish, which often come onto the bite after this wind.

3. Offshore wind

Offshore winds are usually hot and excellent for shark and ray fishing.

With the wind at your back, casting is easier, and beach conditions are more comfortable due to reduced sand blow.

4. Onshore wind

Onshore winds often make the sea flat and blue, but they are generally unproductive for shore anglers.

I often refer to this as a ‘picnic wind’, as it’s ideal for taking the family to the beach and enjoying the sunshine rather than targeting fish.

Get involved

Anglers, residents, and visitors are encouraged to share information, sightings, or comments with the writer at: zulufish@proton.me

Whether you’re looking to improve your skills, discover new fishing spots, or become part of a passionate angling community, now is a great time to get involved.

To learn more about the Zululand Shore Angling Association and its affiliated clubs, visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ZululandShoreAnglingAssosciation

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