Questionable catch raises serious alarm
TODAY’S photograph irks the daylights out of me – and I am sure anglers in general.
Why is it so difficult for some to throw back their excess fish? Or is it simply a case of greed?
I have given this practice much thought before I penned this column. The angler in today’s picture which was openly posted on Facebook shows off a questionable catch.
One wonders how such a catch would have been defended had a law enforcement official or member of the public inquired.
Some would argue: “It’s not all my fish”, and yet they are in possession of the fish at the time of interception.
How many people can fish off one craft anyway, considering there is a certified limit which a small craft can carry?
One also wonders where these fish are destined for.
It is not impossible that the picture reflects a group effort, which could then possibly make it a legal catch, but the doubt remains and the truth will probably never be known.
There are unfortunately many irresponsible people out there who ruin our sport and the image of recreational angling.
Personally, I detest people who use social media to show off excessive catches, knowing they probably won’t be prosecuted. It’s time to hit back and shame! Well, the word is out that there are lots of grunter and other fish in the Swartkops and surrounds.
The red tide has been seen in the mouth of the estuary, which suggests that the fish have moved in to escape this phenomenon.
The east winds (which mean colder water) have forced the fish from the coastal zone into the river.
It is always a good idea to make a cast a day after the east wind has prevailed for a period.
The opportunity is there and I sincerely hope anglers will be honest and vigilant at this time. Please report illegal activities – it’s the right thing to do.
Enjoy the opportunity and fish responsibly.
There are also good garrick around that have taken fly.
In addition, the coastal zone inside the bay delivered two huge kob well over the symbolic “100 pound” (45kg) bracket this past week. There is also much expectation out at sea with the Tuna Competition at St Francis on the go from Wednesday.
I have seen some respectable yellowtail being caught by the deep-sea anglers and much marine life sightings by the eco-tourism operators, which suggest good angling prospects before the winter is upon us.
There are favourable conditions for today and tomorrow with a high barometer and northerly winds turning light easterly tomorrow afternoon, prevailing throughout Sunday.
Low tide is at 11.33am tomorrow.
Make the call (just about anywhere) and you should benefit from an above average opportunity.