From
the calm and still waters of Phobane Lake and the lagoons
of the Mlalazi
and Matikulu
rivers to the pounding and invigorating surf of the Indian
Ocean, there is an abundance of watersport opportunities
to suit everyone.
Zululand is a fisherman's paradise and anglers have a
variety of places to choose from - both salt water and
fresh water. |
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Ski-boats
may be launched from the Mlalazi
lagoon at Mtunzini
but no motorized boats are permitted in the Amatikulu
estuary.
Fishing from the banks of the lagoon, however, can be just
as fruitful with sizeable Grunter, Salmon, Rock Salmon/River
Snapper, Stumpnose, Rockcod, Shad, Pick Handle Barracuda and
Sandfish/Gurnard being caught.
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife staff are responsible for enforcing
fishing regulations and rangers regularly inspect one's fishing
licenses and all catches to ensure that certain species are
not kept and minimum sizes are adhered to.
Bait can be purchased from various outlets such as Spar, Ezemvelo
KZN Wildlife offices and Ensuro Bait and Tackle in Mtunzini. |
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Fishing
is strictly regulated and recreational anglers require
valid fishing licences at all times - these permits can
be purchased from any post office. The onus is on the
individual to ensure that they abide by the law and fishermen
are urged to familiarise themselves with the regulations
governing all fishing in South Africa. |
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Phobane
Lake in the Nkwaleni
Valley between Eshowe
and Melmoth
was constructed on the uMhlatuze River by the Department
of Water Affairs more than 25 years ago to provide an assured
water supply to the developing port and industrial complex
at Richards Bay. It is about 14 kms in length and has a
massive capacity of 300 million cubic metres. There are
no tourist facilities in the lake's vicinity but it is a
popular fresh water fishing site. |
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| DEEP
SEA FISHING |
FRESH
WATER FISHING |
Deep
sea anglers can launch their ski boats at
an official Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife launching site in the Umlalazi
Nature Reserve which provides access to the ocean through
the mouth of the Umlalazi river. Boats can also be launched
off the beach at Mtunzini
and Amatikulu.
Skippers are advised that boats launched at Mtunzini lagoon
for access through the mouth should make enquires with the
Mtunzini Ski Boat Club regarding a launching permit.
Both Ski-Boat Clubs host competitions throughout the year.
An excellent "Couta-Run" was had between January
and March 2006 and after the Barracuda the Snoek started biting.
Summer months are good for large Dorado, Kingfish, Queen Fish,
Bonnito, Barracuda, Yellowfin Tuna and a variety of species
of reef fish like Rockcod, Mof Grunter, Lantern Fish, Snapper
and other types.
Anglers are reminded to please ensure that all documentation
for skippers licences, launch permits and fishing permits
are available at all times.
• Mtunzini Ski Boat Club: 035 340 1006
An annual 'Couta Open' is held in April/May.
• Eshowe Social Fishing Club (ESFC): 083 256 5516 |
The
main venues for fresh water fishing are inland in the Eshowe
area. These include Rutledge Park Dam and Eshlazi Dam which
are now maintained by uThungulu District Municipality. The
large 14 km-long Phobane Lake, which is situated off the R66
and approximately 30 minutes from Eshowe, boasts large numbers
of Largemouth Bass, Barbel and Tilapia.
As many as 24 different species of fish have been identified
in Phobane Lake!
Boats may be launched, however, it is advisable not to leave
your vehicle/picnic site unattended and there are no toilet
facilities.
No accommodation facilities exist at Phobane Lake, though
Shakaland (Protea
Hotel) is approximately 3 km from the dam wall.
• Eshowe Social Fishing Club: 083 256 5516. |
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Eshowe Social Fishing Club hosts a popular annual 'Phobane
Bonanza' with a variety of excellent prizes and a lively
weekend of action with a camp-where-you-find-a-place atmosphere.
A large marquee is erected on the banks of the lake for socialising
and watching rugby on a large screen TV once the day's fishing
is over. A food and beverage tent as well as portable toilets
are arranged for the event. |
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