Great White, Big Predators - KZN REPORT (16 APRIL '26)

Fishing activity across KwaZulu Natal surged to exceptional levels this past week, with anglers reporting standout catches from the rocks, offshore grounds and estuaries. Highlights included couta landed off the rocks on the South Coast, strong snoek action from Durban to the North Coast, trophy sized kingfish and blacktips, and widespread non edible activity featuring grey sharks, hammerheads and diamond rays. Calm seas allowed ski boat and paddleski anglers to capitalise offshore, producing quality pelagic catches of couta, snoek, tuna and dorado, while deep water bottom fishing yielded reds and rockcod. One of the most notable developments came from Tugela Mouth, where multiple anglers confirmed a close encounter with a large great white shark, estimated at nearly six metres, reinforcing the presence of major apex predators along the coast.
Inland, freshwater systems are also showing positive signs as autumn conditions stabilise. Trout rivers in the KZN Midlands have settled after recent weather fluctuations, producing quality fish across club waters, while stillwaters are responding well to cooling temperatures below 20°C. Bass fishing remains mixed, though improved shore success has been reported at Albert Falls, with better overall numbers at Midmar. Yellowfish activity at Sterkfontein Dam is beginning to slow as fish move deeper, while early exploratory trips to Jozini have delivered double figure tigerfish. Collectively, the reports point to a strong seasonal transition, with fishing across KZN entering a highly productive phase and indications that conditions will remain favourable in the weeks ahead.

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