Protea fishermen need support to compete internationally

Siblings Rolen Moodley (30) and Jason Moodley (28) are no ordinary fishermen. The brothers have advanced their passion for the sport to an international level having been selected for the Protea and Sassac teams. Next year they hope to represent South Africa against Namibia and Australia but need community support to make this dream possible and to put Pietermaritzburg’s talent on the map.

The sibling’s passion for angling began at a young age with their father, uncle and grandfather. What started as a hobby soon developed into a sport as the brothers developed their skills and began competing at higher levels.

In 2014 they joined the Fishfinders Angling Club and two years later competed in provincial trials making the 2018 KZN team where they competed in the SA Championship President’s Division. The brothers placed fourth and sixth respectively with KZN taking gold. They made the KZN team in 2019 and 2021.

This year, due to COVID-19, they were chosen by the South African Freshwater Bank Angling Federation’s (SAFBAF) three year merit list to represent the South African Team in 2021.

Currently, Jason has his Protea colors and fishes for them, and Rolen is a reserve angler for the Protea Freshwater Bank Angling Team and fishes for the South African Sport Anglers and Casting Confederation, for which he has his colours.

To compete in the upcoming events the brothers are fundraising for their high performance training camps and tour in which they will compete in the Region Five Tournament in September 2021, fishing against Namibia and Australia. Rolen needs R15 000 while Jason needs R20 000.

Fishing is very much a competitive sport says Rolen explaining that skill, concentration & experience are essential elements for success.

“Fishing is a very competitive sport. Everyone encourages each other and tries to bring out the best in themselves in trying to catch the biggest and most fish. Fishing can teach a person many life lessons, including the art of patience,” says Rolen.

Jason says the sport makes one appreciate what God has provided even though many of these privileges are taken for granted.

“There is no better way to clear your mind and gather your thoughts, even if you don’t catch any fish. I also want to urge our local anglers to practice catch and release to ensure better fishing for future generations to come,” said Jason.

To donate towards Rolen and

Jason’s tour costs use the following details:

Account Holder: SAFBAF Account No: 930 448 7917 Bank: ABSA BANK Type: SAVINGS Ref: R Moodley E-MAIL Proof of payment to carlsc@vodamail.co.za

Account Holder: Jason Moodley Account No: 1076477151 Bank: Nedbank Type: Cheque

Branch: Midlands Mall Branch Code: 198765

Ref: JASON MOODLEY– PROTEA

E-MAIL Proof of payment to jasonmoodley07@gmail.com