Best time to visit South Africa

Fishing Season in South Africa

Whether it's deep sea fishing or flyfishing in a mountain stream, expect a good catch

Best time: September–May (all year round)

Fishing Season
Fishing Season

South Africa is blessed with 3000 kilometres of coastline, as well as numerous lakes, rivers, mountain streams, and dams. A fishing enthusiast will surely find a place for a favourite activity.

Provided that you have got special permission for ocean fishing, you are allowed to join deep sea charters—the ocean waters are rich in barracuda, sailfish and tuna. In places around Cape Town, October to December is the most pleasant time for deep sea fishing. In Durban in KwaZulu-Natal province, the official fishing season runs from December to March.

Bass and carp fishing is also available, yet catch and release are encouraged. Mountain rivers and streams flourish with brown and rainbow trout. The highlands are great for seasonal flyfishing, increasingly popular in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and Eastern Cape Provinces, and the rest of South Africa. Whoever dislikes the idea of wading across the rivers may choose fishing in dams or lakes.

Trout is caught mainly between September and May. Flyfishing itself is the best in spring (September–October) and autumn (April–May) when water is warm and fish is active. Although these months are considered the best, some dams and lakes have no closed season. So if you want to go fishing badly, you may find certain opportunities all year round.

Practical info

When is the best time for deep sea fishing in Cape Town?

Deep sea fishing in Cape Town should be done from October to December. During this period, the waters offer a comfortable environment for fishing enthusiasts. Before embarking on deep sea charters in Cape Town, it is necessary to obtain permission for fishing in the ocean. Show more

Where is the official fishing season for Durban in KwaZulu-Natal province?

The fishing season in Durban in KwaZulu-Natal province officially runs from December to March, which is the best period for fishing tours in the region. South Africa has an abundant natural water catchment, including rivers, dams, lakes, and mountain streams, which provide a variety of fishing grounds throughout the year. Show more

What types of fish can I catch in South Africa's coastline?

South Africa boasts a variety of fish species, such as sailfish, barracuda, bass, carp, and tuna, among others, which can be caught through various fishing techniques. The timing and availability of each species vary from one area to another along the country's over 3,000 kilometres of coastline and inland water sources. Show more

When is the trout fishing season in South Africa?

Trout fishing in South Africa is most productive between September and May, particularly during the spring (September-October) and autumn (April-May). Although some lakes and dams do not have fishing restrictions, most streams and rivers do. South Africa's wide variety of fishing grounds, including lakes, mountain streams, rivers, and dams, ensure that there is something for everyone despite any restrictions. Show more

Is catch and release encouraged for bass and carp fishing?

In South Africa, catch and release is highly recommended for bass and carp fishing to maintain and protect native fish species. There are several opportunities to fish for these species in mountain streams, dams, and river systems. South Africa's abundant natural water catchment provides a range of unique fishing experiences for visitors. It is important to follow the fishing regulations while fishing in the country with loved ones. Show more

Ask a question

Find hotels and airbnbs near Fishing Season (Map)

Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin