SPEARFISHING IN SOUTH AFRICA - ZIPKINCI

**Aşkın YILDIRIM** · 13-11-2006

SPEARFISHING IN SOUTH AFRICA

The anticipation of a sucessful catch and the anxious moments just before the strike is what makes spearfishing in South Africa such a popular activity. Magnificent coastlines are complimented by an immense variety of aquatic life that make spearfishing a unique experience.

There are numerous spearfishing destinations, however the main spearfishing hot spot is along the ruggedly beautiful Wild Coast. This magnificent coastline stretches from Kosi Bay in the north to Port Edward in the south. This distance is approximately 560km. This coastline attracts many spearfishermen worldwide and is home to a diversity of fish life. The warm Agulhas current sweeps down this entire coastline bringing in pelagic fish, black and striped marlin, yellowfin tuna, world record size kawakawa, skipjack tuna, king mackerel, queenfish, kingfish, dorado and wahoo. The current allows little sand and silt to settle, resulting in large areas of prime reef fishing. Go spearfishing in South Africa and discover the diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs.

The Greater St Lucia Wetland Park is one of the jewels of the South African coastline. Its beauty attracts millions from all over the worls. It is located on the north-eastern coast of KwaZulu Natal, stretching from Kozi Bay in the north to Cape St Lucia in the south. This park was the first in South Africa to be declared as a World Heritage Site and for good reason. The area consists of swamps, lake systems, beaches, coral reefs, wetlands, woodlands and coastal forests and boasts a diverse subtropical coastline perfect for all the spear fishing enthusiasts out there. The Transkei boasts gorgeous long stretches of beach broken by estuaries. The result is that this area harbours many saltwater fish perfect for spear fishing. For Deep-sea Fishing Charters in the Zulu;and region of KwaZulu Natal, contact Zululand Fishing Charters - Louis and Cecillie Nel on Telephone +27 (0)35 562-7000 or Mobile: +27 (0)82 657-6959.

Other awesome spear fishing venues in KwaZulu Natal include Albert Falls Public Resort near Pietermaritzburg, Chelmsford Dam near Newcastle, Craigieburn Dam, the magnificent and shimmering Drakensberg Streams, Goedetrou Dam, Hazelmere Dam and Inanda Dam to mention a few.

Mossel Bay in the Western Cape also promises fantastic spear fishing. Fed from the tropical Agulhas current and the nutrient enriched Benguela current, this is a spear fishing haven. Spot the southern Yellowtail, Kabeljou or Kob, Cape Salmon, Red Steenbras, Red Roman, Red Stumpnose and Garrick to mention just a few.

Just east of Cape Agulhas lies the small coastal town of Struisbaai which has become a popular spearfishing destination and boasts a wide variety of bottom-feeding as well as pelagic species desirable both as sport and food fish.

South Africa promises incredible spear fishing adventures for all enthusiasts out there. This magnificent coastline boasts a diverse fish life and gorgeous coral reefs ensuring an unforgettable South African spearfishing experience.