Drone fishing ban explained plus KZN catch reports

In this week's episode of the Angler News SA podcast, we cover a variety of topics important to the fishing community. These include the ban on using drones for fishing, an explanation of the law, its consequences, and legally allowed alternatives. 

We’ve also got the latest KZN fishing reports from our reporters along the coastline and in freshwater areas. 

We also touch on a personal story regarding the camaraderie among anglers, focusing on the support and brotherhood within the fishing community, particularly in times of need.

Listen below.

(Pictured above: Craig Bashford and fellow angler with a Garrick off Durban water during an ORI Tagging Program)

KZN Fishing Reports:

• Offshore: Bottom fishing has taken center stage in recent weeks, yielding rewarding catches. However, snoek and tuna remain an option for anglers seeking a more active fishing experience.
• Rock and Surf: Sardines have been the main attraction, attracting impressive gamefish to these shimmering schools. Persistence is key, as the shoal movements might be unpredictable.
• Freshwater: Freshwater anglers have encountered a delightful mix of species, although recent weather conditions have presented some challenges.

Pictured above: Saffiya Ahmod back in action at her favorite place (Durban Harbour) with a Snapper Salmon while spinning.

Pictured below: Young Jake with stunning winter Bass caught at Inanda Dam

Above, Akshay Manilal still enjoying the Grey shark action down the South Coast.

(Pictured above: Ray Thompson)

Meanwhile, planning your next fishing trip? A recent Angler News SA podcast provides a comprehensive six-month forecast for rock and surf fishing along the KZN coastline. Experienced angler Ray Thompson joins Vinesh Soogreem to look at seasonal fishing plans from winter to summer, looking at the best locations and species to increase your strike rate and plan accordingly.

Listen now to get insights on planning your trips, tackle, and accommodation based on fish migrations and seasonal changes.

Meanwhile, in an earlier Expert Series episode, we looked into the mindset necessary for successful fishing. Vinesh Soogreem sat down with John Otto, a seasoned fishing manager with 45 years of experience, to understand what it takes to keep motivation levels alive after hours on the water with no bite. Listen below:

Ever wonder why some days you catch fish all afternoon, while others leave you with an empty cooler? The secret might be written in the stars (and the tides). In an earlier Expert Series edition of the Angler News SA podcast, fishing expert Dave Irvine discusses how moon phases and tides impact fishing. Listen below.

Find more episodes of Angler News SA in the full channel below:

More about the Angler News South Africa (ANSA) podcast:

ANSA is Africa's only fishing podcast that focuses on the latest fishing reports, whether they're hot or not. ANSA delivers true and accurate content from the country's most prominent anglers every week on various facets of angling.

• The KZN Fishing Report (Thursdays, 3 PM)
The fishing report kicks off down the Lower South Coast with Adam Lyon, who covers everything fishing-related from Port Edward to Port Shepstone. The news then flows down to the Kingsburg/Illovo stretch, where Gary van Sluys gathers content from the rocks every morning.

For the Durban report, we have two correspondents: Mike Vlcek, a seasoned competitive angler, and Brad Grobbler, known as the East Coast's Davie Jones for the time he spends on the water keeping anglers up-to-date on the week's activities.
North Coast reports from Tongaat to Richards Bay are covered by Jesse Schubach, who not only delivers reports but also provides detailed advice on various aspects of angling. The fishing report rounds off in the Midlands with Jan Korrûbel reporting on all facets of freshwater angling..

This weekly report ends with Vinesh and his reporters sharing their predictions for the upcoming weekend.

• Expert Angling Interviews (Mondays mornings)
Dive deep into the world of fishing with Vinesh's in-depth interviews. Each week, he chats with leading anglers and industry experts, tackling topics that are on every angler's mind. Learn how to read tides and weather, master specific techniques, and even explore the path to becoming a protea angler.

Meet your host, Vinesh Soogreem!

Vinesh Soogreem is a legend in the South African fishing media scene. With over two decades under his belt, he's not just an angler who's explored the KZN waters extensively, but also a passionate communicator who's shared his knowledge through books, magazines, and now podcasts and social media. Vinesh lives by the motto "Fish for the future," reflecting his dedication to both the sport and conservation.

Vinesh's authority on KZN fishing is unmatched.  Actively involved in the community since the 90s, he's competed at club and social levels, covered major angling competitions, and earned the trust of the media during the Sardine Run. He currently serves as the National Media Liaison for the South African Surf Casting Association, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the South African fishing scene.