The thrill of fishing: embracing the ocean's majesty

I'M AN ANGLER who targets big sharks – not just for the thrill, but for the deep respect I hold for these majestic ocean giants. Representing South Africa as part of the prestigious Protea team has been one of my greatest honours.

Fishing has taken me to many parts of the world, where I've explored the deepest seas and connected with cultures tied to the tides.

Whether you fish for sport or fun, I believe it should always be done with heart and safety in mind. As an expert in drowning prevention and rescue operations, I want to use my experience to help others enjoy the ocean with confidence. Let me guide you in making your time on the water both exciting and secure.

Life beyond waves, sand, and sunshine

I've lived the beach life long enough to see how it brings out a whirlwind of feelings – heart-pumping happiness, gut-wrenching sadness, life-changing moments, and heart-stopping losses.

People flock to the beach to soak up the sun-kissed vibes, but some get tangled in the wild unpredictability of the ocean. The beach is a place of thrilling ups and daunting downs.

The ocean's bounty and responsibility

The ocean is a treasure trove of fish for millions worldwide, fuelling both recreational thrills and commercial livelihoods. We must fish responsibly to conserve our fish stocks for the future.

We must try to practice catch and release. This keeps the ocean teeming with life and ensures that fishing remains a thriving industry for generations to come.

The pleasures of fishing

Throwing out a line sparks a buzz of anticipation, wondering what jaw-dropping catches lurk in the mysterious depths.

Battling a feisty jack or other bruisers gets your adrenaline pumping like crazy. Fishing allows you to connect with the ocean in a laid-back, soulful way.

Current fishing conditions

A wild weekend’s brewing – windy and rainy conditions are on tap. Still, waves around 3 meters by Friday should be fishable for die-hard anglers - target sassy species like Shad, blacktail, Garrick, and stumpies lurking near rocky hotspots.

Tips for this weekend

Use fresh bait in the incoming tide after low water for knockout results. Prime fishing times are crack-of-dawn mornings and mellow late afternoons. Scope out structural sweet spots like Winkle Beach, Margate Pier, or rocky points.

Ecological interplay

In winter, the sardines stage a massive migration along the coast, trailed by a pack of predators, including sharks, dolphins, and birds. It’s a wild, natural spectacle playing out in the ocean’s theatre – a reminder of how deeply interconnected our lives are with the sea.

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