Sardine Run "The Greatest Shoal on Earth"

The greatest shoal on earth is an accurate description of the huge shoal of sardines that leaves the West Coast of Africa to follow a cold ocean current that flows up the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, during the winter months of the year.

Billions of the small silver fish follow the narrow cold water ocean current, which is rich in plankton, as it flows up the South Coast of KwaZulu, to set the stage for one of the most incredible marine spectacles ever seen in the world.

Following the huge shoal of sardines in this amazing ocean extravaganza is over 50,000 common and bottlenose dolphins, thousands of sharks, shoals of different species of game fish, seals and tens of thousands of sea birds all competing for nature's bounty in the warm Indian ocean off the coast of South Africa.

In an amazing spectacle of combined hunting skills copper sharks and dolphins team up by herding sections of the shoal closer to the surface, making it easier for seabirds to plunge in and take their share. Also forming part of the commotion in the ocean are hundreds of humpback whales who salute the ocean extravaganza by lifting their large tails as they move up the coast during their winter migration.

On account of a mixture of inshore currents and the narrow continental shelf as well as predator herding, sardines are compressed and thus forced to beach.  Beaching causes human sanity to be forgotten as "sardine fever" spreads like wild fire. People of all shapes & sizes scramble to the beaches where every sardine beaching offers the opportunity for  beach netting and fishing paradise for shore anglers.

 This spectacular symphony of sea life is legendary which results in Southern KwaZulu Natal proving to be a vibrant venue to view whales, dolphins and many other marine predators.  

Charter Boat Fishing - Kwa Zulu Natal - South Coast - Shelly Beach

Boat: These (28ft & 30ft) catamarans are licensed to carry 12 crew (skipper, first hand and 10 charters) and are powered by 150 & 200 Yamaha outboard motors. To allow each angler extra space and comfort, a maximum of 8 anglers per boat are taken aboard. However, in cases where a groups charter a boat, these groups are entitled to take the maximum of 10 crew members should they wish to do so. Furthermore all boats have toilet facilities on board.

Launching: Boats are front (dry) launched by tractors and therefore ensure utmost comfort for all on board. Launching normally takes place at first light in winter and returns to base at approximately 14h30 depending on the tide.

 Due to the extensive time spent on the boat, anglers are provided with a packed lunch and refreshments onboard.

 Game Species: Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Couta (King Mackerel), Barracuda, Bonnito, Natal Snoek (Queen Mackerel), Garrick, Yellow Tail, Prodical Son, Wahoo, Queenfish, Dagga Salmon (Kabeljou) , Sada Sada King Fish, MARLIN and SAIL FISH.

Reefs: Protea Reef is 7.5km from the shore, 2km in length and 600 meters wide. The reef is known for the huge concentration and variety of Shark Species. Most common are Hammerhead, Zambezi, Ragged Tooth, Copper, Tiger and Dusky sharks.

Where there are sharks, there are fish which they are feeding on. The reefs are inhabited by: Rockcod, Bream, Englishman, Slinger, Stumpnose, Scotsman, Musselcracker, Red Steenbras, Pink Salmon, Geelbek (Salmon) and the majority of the other Red Fish Species.

While in season, share in the enchantment of watching the dolphins frolic and swim around the boat and participate in some whale watching (April – November).

Rock & Surf Fishing - Kwa Zulu Natal - South Coast

The remarkable phenomenon sees literally millions of sardines converge upon the South Coast of Kwazulu Natal. This remarkable act of nature brings sharks and game fish within the reach of every angler. The annual sardine run brings the entire South Coast into fishing frenzies. The sight of boiling water and diving birds is a sure indication of pending fishing pandemonium.

Excellent communication between anglers and commercial sardine netters ensures that any visiting angler can be put into the action with military precision. Taking advantage of the commercial netters will ensure the best fishing results as this is were you will find most fish taking advantage of the spilt fish stemming from the nets.

The best bait is naturally fresh sardine. These can either be caught by using the jig and drop method through the middle of a shoal. This tactic ensures that your jigged bait drops immediately below the shoaling action and nine out of ten times a solid hook up will occur. You can also net your own bait or simply purchase fresh sardines directly from the netters. Another great tactic is spoons or surface poppers used along the fringes of the shoal. Artlure is a firm favourite amongst the locals and every year outstanding game fish are landed using this technique.

There are a number of ‘Hot Spots’ along the coast. The venues differ from rocky points and peninsulas to protected bays and sandy beaches. Trophy fish vary from day to day and depending on the size of sardine shoals. Wind and weather conditions, tide and water depth all play a major role in catches.

It is not uncommon to have a smash of every predator fish in the ocean all in one spot. Catches of Ignobilis Kingfish (GT), Blacktip Kingfish, Garrick, Kob, Couta, Prodigal Son, Dorado, Bonito and Yellowfin Tuna are common trophies for surf fishermen during the annual sardine run. For those with the more adventurous spirits there is an absolute abundance of sharks in the water. It is not uncommon to see huge Copper Sharks, Grey Sharks, Blackfin Sharks beaching them selves whilst chasing shoals of sardines onto the shore line. There are also huge Ragged Tooth Sharks, Zambezi Sharks and a whole array of huge Skates and Rays to be caught. BY simply bunching several sardines onto a hook and dropping these behind the shore break you will be almost guaranteed a pull that neither you or your sore arms will forget in a good while

Kapenta Bay Shelley Beach Accommodation

From your welcome at the hotel, the easy comfort of every room, the mouth watering South Coast Cuisine and all the activities that the area has to offer, you'll know you are on holiday when staying at Kapenta Bay.

Kapenta Bay is situated right on the beach and is just an hours drive from Durban's International Airport, Kapenta Bay is easily accessible and offers budget friendly packages designed to suit every requirement.

Rooms
Accommodation at Kapenta Bay consists of 50 three bedroom, 2 bathroom suites. Each suite consists of a master bedroom with a queen sized double bed, the second bedroom with a standard double bed and the third bedroom fitted with two single beds. Each suite has an equipped kitchenette, a dining area and a lounge area fitted with satellite television.

An open air balcony leads off the lounge most with unobstructed views over the Indian Ocean.

For those who enjoy casting their line into the foaming, rolling surf, the miles of beaches and rocky points offer the enthusiast solitude and of course, the chance of a big bite.

From all the richness and variety that the South Coast has to offer, the seafood and freshest tropical fruit, our master chef has a wealth of ingredients with which to create, and it shows in the banquet that's set before you every delectable meal.

Fishing Itinerary

DAY 1 - Meet and greet at Durban International Airport and transfers to the South Coast. The drive will take approximately 1 hour. Upon arrival at Kapenta Bay Hotel, check in and freshen up for dinner.  Enjoy a delicious 3 course dinner at the hotel. Early night recommended for an early morning wake up.

DAY 2-6 - 07h00 Full breakfast and transfers to Shelly Beach Ski Boat Club.

Launch will take place at 07h30 – 08h00 (To allow each angler extra space and comfort, a maximum of 8 anglers per boat are taken aboard). Light lunch and refreshments available onboard throughout the day. Return to the harbour at approximately 14h30, dependent on the action and weather conditions.

Afternoon optional activity – Rock and Surf fishing or a visit to the beautiful Oribi Gorge. (see below)

 Dinner at the hotel or at one of the popular local pubs where tales of “the one that got away” are shared.

DAY 10 - Approx 08h00 – Breakfast is served, before wishing your final farewell.  Transfers from Kapenta Bay to Durban Airport.

 Alternate Activities

The following activities are substituted when and if we are unable to launch. Most of these activities are done as a matter of course over and above the fishing, even when we launch everyday.

Rock & Surf Fishing – There are a number of ‘Hot Spots’ along the coast. All fishing guides have a reliable source of spotters that will relay the best hot spots to ensure that you are put right into the action.

Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve – This popular day-excursion is just half an hour's drive from the Resort.  High sandstone cliffs dominate the 24km long gorge carved out by the Umzimkulwana River and self-guided trails reveal an array of antelope and birds. The landscape is overgrown with trees, emerald green ferns, flowers and many waterfalls.

Fishing Package Costing

From:                          US$ 1 795.00 per person sharing (6 Nights / 7 days)

                                      US$      95.00 per person single supplement

Package Includes:

• Return transfers from Durban Airport to Kapenta Bay, including snacks and refreshments en-route

• All transfers throughout the tour in an 8 seater micro-bus
• A dedicated full-time guide for the duration of your stay

• Charter fishing boat hire for 4 days, includes skipper, first mate, tackle, bait , packed lunch and refreshments on board

• 6 Nights accommodation at Kapenta Bay
• All meals (Full breakfast, lunch and dinner daily)

• Nutshell Travel Cap and toiletry bag, including sunscreen and lip-ice

• CD with photographs of all your memorable “Trophy Catches”
• Alternate activities (see below)

Package Excludes:

• Travel insurance
• All drinks
• Porterage (Excess baggage penalties and transportation)
• Gratuities (At guest discretion)
• Rock and Surf Tackle and baits (R100.00 p/p per day)
• Optional activities
• All international and domestic flights

Alternate activities Included:

• Transfers to Rock and Surf “hot spots” daily

• Transfers and entrance to Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve (Game drive, Oribi Gorge suspension bridge, Oribi Gorge Caves)

Please contact me should you wish to extend your trip onto the “Wild Coast”, visiting legendary places like Coffee Bay, Port St John’s and Mazeppa Bay for the ultimate rock and surf experience.

 Bookings are subject to availability at the time of booking

Prices are based on the current rate of exchange and are subject to change