Spearfishing 101

In the latest episode of the Angler News SA podcast, host Vinesh Soogreem plunges into the deep with spearfishing expert Don Solomon. Throughout the podcast, Solomon shares his journey, tips, and the sheer exhilaration that comes from this unique sport. 

As the president of the South African Underwater Fishing Federation, Solomon provides a unique perspective on the sport, painting it as both a test of physical endurance and mental fortitude. 

Solomon offers advice for those tempted to trade in their rods and reels. He suggests beginning with second-hand gear and emphasises the importance of joining local spearfishing clubs for support and guidance. 

Addressing common fears, Solomon reassures listeners that interactions with sharks are rarely dangerous, provided one maintains composure and respects marine behaviour. 

"Sharks actually coming into your space and wanting to bite you is, it's not as real as you might think," he tells Vinesh Soogreem. 

More than just a thrill-seeking activity, Solomon argues that spearfishing is a sustainable way to harvest fish, promoting a balanced and mindful approach to fishing. 

Intrigued? Listen to the full conversation at the top of the page or directly below.

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 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. 

(Pictured above: Ray Thompson)

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.