BATIS & BASS

The brand-new Batis & Bass River Camp is a great place for camping and fishing.

BATIS & BASS RIVER CAMP Shore stands for all

It’s not every day that you get to book an entire campsite just for yourself. Okay, not entirely for yourself: When you book at Batis & Bass River Camp, the place is reserved for you and your friends. The campsite is halfway between Ceres and Worcester on Plum Lategan’s property. Plum farms with wine grapes and pears, and initially the campsite was for personal use only. But since December last year he’s been sharing this exclusive campsite with other campers. Besides the fact that you have the opportunity to camp on a working farm, avid fishermen will love this place because there are quite a few species to be found in the water. The campsite is on the banks of the Breede River – a few metres downstream from where the Wit River (from Bainskloof) joins the Breede River. Even though the latter is often dry, Plum says that’s not the case here. You’ll find both types of bass (black and small-mouth) and there are also other types of fish like brown trout and the cheeky banded tilapia. Plum has even had members of the national angling team here. Just remember though: Whatever you catch needs to be returned to the water. The stands are on a lawn large enough for up to three caravans, with a paved slab for one vehicle. You can move the braai closer to where you want it and kuier until dawn. Plum supplies the firewood, free of charge. The power socket is in the middle of the campsite with the bathrooms a short distance away. There are two toilets, a shower, basin and washing-up area, and the hot water comes from a gas geyser. The “Batis” in the name refers to the Cape batis; there’s actually a breeding pair of this exceptional bird near the campsite. In the morning you can hear the familiar sound of the fish eagle, and don’t be surprised if you encounter a romp of otters on the farm. You’re allowed to swim in the river, but if you prefer to stay dry, there are two kayaks that you can use, also free of charge.