ski-boat clubs – Nauti-Tech Suzuki

Happening Now: All the Action From the 2024 Tuna Interprovincial

Nauti-Tech Suzuki — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 12:00:10 +0000

Catch the thrill at the 2024 Tuna Interprovincial! Three days of intense fishing action at Shelly Beach, Kwazulu-Natal. Big catches, medals, and epic bragging rights await

Nestled in the stunning coastal town of Shelly Beach, the 2024 Tuna Interprovincial promises an unforgettable fishing experience. With its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Shelly Beach is the perfect backdrop for this thrilling tournament.

Anglers from across the country will converge on these bountiful waters, competing for top honours in a picturesque setting. Get ready for three days of epic Tuna action, camaraderie, and breathtaking scenery. It’s time for the 2024 Tuna Interprovincial

Tuna Interprovincial 2024 Prizes:

As this is an Interprovincial tournament, anglers will be competing for Gold, Silver and Bronze medals, not to mention top honours of being best in the land (or should we say on the water).

Tuna Interprovincial 2024 Dates & Times:

The 2024 Tuna Interprovincial takes place from the 11th to the 13th of July – weather permitting, with the opening ceremony taking place on the 10th of July with the teams enjoying dinner together.

On the 11th and 12th of July, the teams fuel up with breakfast at 05h30, before hitting the water at 06h15 for a solid day’s Tuna fishing action.

Lines up is called at 15h00 to allow teams to get back to Shelly Beach Ski-Boat Club for weigh-in between 16h00 and 17h00 Scales Close.

After a hard day’s fishing, there’s nothing better than kicking back for dinner and drinks with fellow competitors from 17h30.

The final day (Saturday 13 July) follows a similar flow with Breakfast at 05h30, and Boat launch at 06h15, but wraps up a little earlier than Days 1 and 2 of the Tuna Interprovincial with lines up at 13h00, scales open between 14h00 and 15h00.

The 2024 Tuna Interprovincial wraps up on Saturday at 16h00 with the closing function and prize giving. And we have it on good authority that the closing ceremony will wrap up in time for the Springboks vs Ireland rugby match kicking off at 17h00.

Tuna Interprovincial 2024 Info:

The Tuna Interprovincial is hosted by the Shelly Beach Ski-Boat Club, the South African Deep Sea Angling Association (SADSAA), and the Natal Deep Sea Angling Association (NDSAA).

With 8 provincial teams, comprising 3 anglers each, from around the country battling it out for top honours at this year’s Tuna Interprovincial, we’re in for 3 days of epic Tuna Action.

This year the provinces represented are:

2 Teams from Natal (Team Black and Team White)
3 Teams from Southern Gauteng (Team Gold, Team Silver, Team Bronze)
2 Griquas Teams (Team Blue, Team Red)
1 Western Province Team

Tuna Interprovincial 2024 Contact Details

For any additional info about the 2024 Tuna Interprovincial competition, kindly visit the Shelly Beach Ski-Boat Club website, follow their Facebook page or contact them directly.

Albert Meyer Drive, Shelly Beach, 4265 | Tel: 082 555 6666| Email: shellybsbc@gmail.com

Stay up to date with all the latest news and results by following along on social media:

Shelly Beach Ski-Boat Club’s Facebook page.

South African Deep Sea Angling Association’s Facebook page.

Natal Deep Sea Angling Association’s Facebook page.

Tight lines and fair weather to all the anglers competing at the Tuna Interprovincial 2024.

ALL NEW BOATS

Plus: Deep sea, ski-boat, river or cabin cruisers: See all our custom-built new boats. And discover everything we’ve repowered, refitted, refurbed and all new launches + their motors, all under our collective of boats.

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

To ensure you always get first dibs on the latest deals and be the first to know about news, events and special offers by joining the Nauti-Tech Suzuki Facebook community and signing up for our newsletter.

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

A Feast of Game Fish Action at the Mapelane Game Fish Challenge

Nauti-Tech Suzuki — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 12:00:11 +0000

18 boats battle it out for Game Fish glory at the Mapelane Game Fish Challenge hunting Yellowfin, Cuda, Wahoo, Snoek, Kingfish as well as Sailfish and Marlin

Hot on the heels of the prestigious Mapelane Trophy in May, the Mapelane Ski Boat Club hosts the 3rd Mapelane Game Fish Challenge. With some big prizes up for grabs and some big fish in the pristine KZN waters, you don’t want to miss out on the fun and camaraderie.

Check out all the competition info as well as who to contact and where to follow along for more info.

Mapelane Game Fish Challenge 2024 Prizes

There’s a cool R120’000 up for grabs for the Mapelane Game Fish Challenge. But as the Challenge is run according to a daily skin format, anglers have 3 chances to land R40’000.

Not to mention some exciting prizes for the Top Boat and Top Angler of the comp.

Mapelane Game Fish Challenge Dates and Times

The Mapelane Game Fish Challenge runs from the 14th to the 16th of June 2024 and kicks off with the briefing on the 13th at 18:00 sharp.

The comp’s fishing days run from Friday the 14th of June to Sunday the 16th of June, with boats going out at first light and scales closing daily at 3 PM.

The event ends with the official prizegiving for the R120’000, top boat and top angler on Sunday night at 18h30 at the club house.

Mapelane Game Fish Challenge Info

Entries to the Mapelane Game Fish Challenge have already closed, and 18 teams will participate targeting Yellowfin, Cuda, Wahoo, Snoek, Kingfish as well as Sailfish and Marlin.

And while teams need to release any Sailfish and Marlin caught (after taking an awesome pic of course), the benchmarks for the other Game Fish have been set as follows:

Yellowfin Tuna – 20 kgs

Cuda – 17 kgs

Wahoo – 16 kgs

Snoek – 6.5 kgs

Mapelane Game Fish Challenge Contact

If you have any questions, or more info please contact the Mapelane Ski Boat Club:

Convenor – Connor Birkett 083 277 8498

Club Secretary – Gideon van der Linde 083 458 5327

Also: Follow the Mapelane Ski Boat Club on Facebook for awesome event pics.

Fine weather and tight lines to all 18 teams and event organisers, may it be a fantastic Mapelane Game Fish Challenge 2024.

ALL NEW BOATS

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

All The Big Winter Fishing Competitions in June

Nauti-Tech Suzuki — Thu, 30 May 2024 10:00:17 +0000

Epic Bottomfish and Gamefish action to go along with some big National and Interprovincial fishing comps around South Africa to beat the winter blues this June

Marlin Ski Boat Club Competition

14th – 15th June 2024

With 2 days of thrilling action on the cards for anglers targeting Marlin, Tuna, and Dorado, Port Edward, known for its beautiful coastal scenery, offers an excellent fishing ground with deep waters teeming with game fish. The Marlin Ski Boat Club Competition attracts seasoned anglers from across the country, all hoping to reel in the biggest catch and claim victory in one of South Africa’s best fishing locations.

Marlin Ski-Boat Club | North Sand Bluff, Port Edward | 039 311 2811 | marlinskiboatclub@telkomsa.net

Mapelane Gamefish Challenge

14th – 16th June 2024

Hot on the heels of the prestigious Mapelane Trophy 2024, the Mapelane Ski Boat Club plays host to The Mapelane Gamefish Challenge. From Yellowfin Tuna to Couta, expect some serious Gamefish action at Mapelane.

Get all the important info about the Mapelane Game Fish Challenge.

Mapelane Ski-Boat Club | Mapelane Region KZN | 083 448 0971

SADSAA Junior Bottomfish Nationals

16th – 21st June 2024

The young guns of SA Angling battle it out in Richards Bay at the Meerensee Boat Club for the SADSAA Junior Bottomfish Nationals. With its bustling port and extensive waterways, the Meerensee Boat Club offers diverse fishing opportunities with everything from Slinger, Cob, Grunter, Stumpnose and more.

Meerensee Boat Club | 1 Commodore Close, Richards Bay | 035 788 0258 | info@msbc.co.za

SADSAA Junior Gamefish Nationals

24th – 28th June 2024

Nestled between St. Lucia and Lake Sibhayi, Sodwana Bay is in the Sodwana Bay National Park, and the Maputaland Marine Reserve. With a variety of Gamefish in the waters, it offers young anglers a great opportunity to test their mettle in search of national honours.

Sodwana Bay Ski-Boat Club | Sodwana Main Road, Mbazwana, South Africa | 082 652 8563

Shelly Beach Tuna Bonanza

26th – 29th June 2024

One of the country’s best-known winter gamefish competitions, The Shelly Beach Tuna Bonanza is a highly anticipated fishing comp focusing on big large tuna (the heaviest fish in this comp has traditionally been yellowfin). Past years have seen well over 150 anglers take part to win their share of big prize money. Not to mention the scenic beaches and amazing fishing waters.

Get all the deets for the 2024 edition of the Shelly Beach Tuna Bonanza!

Shelly Beach Ski-Boat Club | Albert Meyer Dr, Shelly Beach, Margate | 039 315 1476 | shellyp@venturenet.co.za

SADSAA Bottomfish Interprovincial

26th – 30th June 2024

Just a bit north of Gonubie and East London lies the Kwelera Ski-Boat Club. Kwelera is famous for its rugged coastline with diverse marine habitats. Anglers from around South Africa converge on this picturesque region to represent their provinces for a week of bottomfish action.

Kwelera Ski-Boat Club | Kwelera River Mouth, near Botanical Gardens, East London | 072 288 5790

Fair weather, tight lines, and big catches to all competitors and event organisers.

Previous Year’s Competitions

Cuda to tuna and billfish – it’s an action-packed month as we look at the big fishing competitions coming up in June this year

Gamefish at Guinjata in Moz. Cuda, tuna and the big billfish nationals! These are the big fishing competitions we’re excited about in June 2022.

MAPELANE CUDA DERBY

4–6 JUNE 2022

Perhaps best known for its annual billfish invitational, everyone’s favourite KZN conservation- and family-minded Mapelane Ski-Boat Club is hosting a cuda (aka couta) derby, and you cna get more information by phoning 083 446 5297.

Mapelane Ski-Boat Club | St Lucia | 082 787 6005

GUINJATA BONANZA

6–12 JUNE 2022

This annual game fish tournament lets you enter a boat and anglers, or with a jet ski. It’s hosted by the Southern Gauteng Deep Sea Angling Association and the Guinjata Sports Fishing Club (in Germiston) in Guinjata Bay in Mozambique, about 6 hours’ drive north-east from Maputo. Watch the video, discover the tournament and phone 083 271 4192 for more info.

Guinjata Bay, Mozambique | Guinjata Sports Fishing Club | info@fishguinjata.co.za | 083 271 4192

RICHARDS BAY INTERCLUB

24–26 JUNE 2022

We’re back again in Richards Bay, this time for a meeting of KZN/Zululand clubs at the Richards Bay Interclub.

Richards Bay Ski-Boat Club | 1 Beach Road, Meer En See, KZN | 035 753 2516 | info@rbsbc.co.za

SADSAA LIGHT-TACKLE BILLFISH NATIONALS

28 June–2 JULY 2022

These South African Deep Sea Angling Association (SADSAA) comps are for national competitive anglers and by provincial invitation and nomination only. The best of the best in SA are heading down to Sodwana Bay this month for the SADSAA Light-Tackle BillFish Nationals.

Sodwana Bay, KZN | SADSAA: info@sadsaa.co.za | +27 (0)83 284 5969

SHELLY BEACH TUNA BONANZA & SKI-BOAT FESTIVAL

30 JUNE–3 JULY 2022

One of the country’s best-known winter gamefish competitions, this festival enjoys a lot of support – there were over 150 anglers fishing it in past years – and there are loads o prizes to be won. Traditionally, the heaviest fish in this comp was usually a yellowfin, hence the tuna focus. But it’s actually an alround game fish tournament, and we’re looking forward to seeing some amberjack or king mackerel (couta). What will it be at this year’s Shelly Beach Ski-Boat Festival? Discover it at Shelly Beach Ski-Boat Club.

Shelly Beach Ski-Boat Club, Albert Meyer Dr, Shelly Beach, Margate | 039 315 1476 | shellyp@venturenet.co.za

Note: These are all the fishing competitions currently on our radar. If you know of competitions or want your fishing competition on this list, email us at hello@nautitechsuzuki.com.

—

MORE UPCOMING FISHING COMPS

Also discover all this year’s big fishing competitions. And see all the ski-boat clubs in Natal.

Plus: Watch this provincial angler show how to tie the perfect bimini twist and see how to create the ideal nail knot for game fish lures.

SOMETHING NEW: NAUTI-TECH PARTY BARGE PONTOONS

Ultra-luxury with padded sundeck, pop-up changing room, waterproof sound system, canopy and complete boat with motors and trailer all-inclusive. Discover our new Nauti-Tech Party Barge.

Plus: See all our custom-built new boats and all our favourite new launches under our full collective post on our boats.

NEW: CUSTOM-BUILT FLAMINGO CABIN CRUISERS

Check out the four awesome new cabin boat models available from our showroom: Discover Flamingo boats.

ALL NEW BOATS

—

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

—

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

Discover the Ski-Boat Clubs of the Southern Cape

Nauti-Tech Suzuki — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 14:39:59 +0000

Struisbaai to Knysna, Plett to Mossel Bay – these are all the awesome ski-boat clubs of the Southern Cape to explore (PLUS local angling and yacht clubs)

Deep sea, inshore and even freshwater – the Southern Cape or Garden Route is one of the most photogenic parts of SA. But it also houses some of the marine-diverse areas. Which means good fishing.

Come explore the si-boat clubs of the Southern Cape with us. (As well as a few yacht clubs and local angling clubs.)

SOUTHERN CAPE DEEP SEA ANGLING ASSOCIATION

Now, the Southern Cape is not a province of SA, but more a beautiful region that runs from Western Cape’s Agulhas and the Overberg region all along the southern coast to Knysna and Bitou, approaching the Eastern Province.

And it’s the Southern Cape Deep Sea Angling Association (SCDSAA), that organises and serves the launch sites and ski-boat clubs of the area. A region that still produces some of SA’s most competitive anglers, both in bottom and game fish. And you can follow them on their Facebook Page.

SKI-BOAT CLUBS OF THE SOUTHERN CAPE

Suidpunt Deep Sea Angling Club

Yellowtail for days. An awesome atmosphere. Some of the best in angling and hospitality Struisbaai has to offer. Explore the facilities, fishing spots, history, and how to become a member at Struisbaai’s Suidpunt Deep Sea Angling Club.

Hoofweg, Struisbaai | 076 191 3744 | Website | Facebook

Leisure Isle Boat Club

Right by Leisure Isle, giving you access through the Heads and open ocean. Knysna is best known for its bottom fishing. And there are a lot of diverse experiences to be had in the area. From rock & surf to sailing to boat fishing, both inshore and offshore.

Links Drive, Leisure Isle, Knysna | 079 378 8252 | Website

Plett Ski-Boat Club

Officially called the Plettenberg Bay Angling Association, Plett Ski-Boat Club and its amazing clubhouse is an iconic Plett landmark. With an awesome restaurant, and loads of fishing – rock & surf, deep sea, and freshwater. You can even get loads of advice on the best bait and fishing spots from the locals.

Central Beach, Plettenberg Bay | 044 533 4147 | Website | Facebook

Southern Cape Yacht Clubs

Mossel Bay Yacht and Boat Club

In a shocking move, the local authorities had recently evicted the club (one of the oldest in the world) from their clubhouse at the waterfront. However, the club now has a temporary residence at the nearby Blaize & Barrel restaurant at 12 Marsh Street in Mossel Bay. You even get a special discount at the bar when you’re a club member.

12 Marsh Street, Mossel Bay | Website | Facebook

George Lakes Yacht Club

There’s no more boat club in George, but you can learn to sail and join the sailing community at the yacht club in the Island Lakes reserve.

Lakes Road, Island Lake, George | Website | Facebook

PLUS: Angling Clubs in the Southern Cape

Witsand Hengelklub

This rock & surf angling clubhouse is right at the Bree River mouth at Witsand – phone: 084 445 4640 or email witsandanglingclub@gmail.com

Stilbaai Hengelklub

Another great rock & surf club, this time right at the marina side of Still Bay West – visit Hofmeyer St, Still Bay West.

Knysna Angling Club

Members-only fishing club right near Knysna Lakeside – visit 15 Waterfront Dr, Knysna or phone 044 382 4002.

We’re constantly updating this page and adding info as we get it. So, if you want to add something or if we’ve missed your club and you want it listed here, send us an email at hello@nautitechsuzuki.com.

DISCOVER MORE SKI-BOAT CLUBS

Also explore with us the ski-boat clubs of Border.

See the entire collection of awesome video fishing tips.

ALL NEW BOATS

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

—

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

Discover the Hidden Ski-Boat Clubs of Border (Transkei)

Nauti-Tech Suzuki — Tue, 06 Sep 2022 14:22:22 +0000

East London to Kei Mouth, Gonubie and Kwelera – these are all the awesome (and sometimes very well hidden) ski-boat clubs of Border in the Eastern Cape

River mouths, big game fish and super-secret fishing spots. The Transkei is one of SA’s most rugged, outdoorsy, “wild” regions. With legends of monster crayfish and the likes of Oom Dan Bekker. So, you’re often hard-pressed to find any solid info about the local fishing scene….

This is why it’s always good to connect with the local ski-boat clubs of the Border region.

Border Deep Sea Angling Association

In SA, the Eastern Cape is divided (administratively) in the deep sea fishing world between Eastern Province and Border. With Border being the old Ciskei and Transkei areas, running from East London up along the rich stretch of coast up to the Wild Coast.

And it’s the Border Deep Sea Angling Association (BDSAA) that organises and serves the launch sites and ski-boat clubs of the Border area. A region that still produces some of SA’s most competitive anglers, both in bottom and game fish. And, if you ever want to get hold of the BDSAA, just give Mr. Tyrone Gower a ring at East London Ski-Boat Club.

Ski-Boat Clubs of the Border Region (Transkei, Eastern Cape)

East London Ski-Boat Club

Ideal for bottom species, especially big copper (red steenbras), except for this one time per year when the locals know you’ll get lekker game fish, too. Situated inside the port of East London on the east bank of Buffalo River, it boasts everything from boat sheds to an awesome slipway to give you access to the ocean and deep sea fishing in East London and Gonubie. In fact, there are even launch facilities for visiting boats – so look the club up when you’re in the area.

There are a lot of good times and good bottom and deep sea fishing to be had at East London Ski-Boat Club.

Pontoon Road, Harbour, East London | 073 155 7999 | Facebook

Gonubie Marine Club

In the idyllic Gonubie area, right on the Gqunube River, about 21km from East London. Gonubie Marine Club is famous for its awesome steak nights, annual potjie events, interclub comps, and the Gonubie SuperSpar fishing competition.

Gonubie River, Gonubie | gonubieskiboatclub@gmail.com | Facebook

Kei Mouth Ski-Boat Club

Right on the Great Kei River, just north of Morgan’s Bay, Kei Mouth Ski-Boat Club is something of a little-known gem in another of SA’s most beautiful regions. There’s everything from awesome inshore to deep sea fishing – even game fish to be had here.

Kei Mouth, 5260 | Facebook

Cintsa Ski-Boat Club

Another hidden gem! About 38 km from East London, at the mouth of the Chintsa River, there’s awesome ocean fishing to be had. And, if you ask around at the Chintsa Village and Country Club, you can find directions to the local Cintsa Ski-Boat Club – known for awesome fishing and occasional fishing competitions (especially over Christmas time).

Steenbras Drive, Chintsa | 082 576 0227

Kwelera Ski-Boat Club

Just a bit north of Gonubie and East London lies another hidden gem in Kwelera Ski-Boat Club. Famous for producing some of Border’s top bottom fish contenders and hosting the annual Peri Wild Coast Challenge.

Kwelera River Mouth, near Botanical Gardens, East London | 072 288 5790

Christmas Vale Ski-Boat Club

Traditionally a bottom-fishing club, but lately producing some awesome game anglers too, you’ll this little gem in Christmas Vale just north of Keyser’s Beach and the Chalumna River Mouth. With interclubs and partaking in loads of local comps, plus: It’s one of the launching sites of the Peri Wild Coat Challenge.

Christmas Vale, Kidd’s Beach | 082 928 5614

DISCOVER MORE SKI-BOAT CLUBS

Also explore with us the ski-boat clubs of Eastern Province.

ALL NEW BOATS

Deep sea, ski-boat, river or cabin cruisers: See all our custom-built new boats. And discover everything we’ve repowered, refitted, refurbed and all new launches + their motors, all under our collective of boats.

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

—

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

Discover the Ski Boat Clubs of Eastern Province

Nauti-Tech Suzuki — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 04:13:33 +0000

From awesome game fish and ideal bottomfish waters, to fish frys, steak nights and remarkable sense of community, these are the ski boat clubs of the Eastern Province

From river to ocean at Port Alfred, fishing at Diaz Deep Sea to idyllic Port St Francis and awesome vibes at PEDSAC. You’ll find some of SA’s most iconic Ski-Boat Clubs in the Eastern Province.

But before we explore them all, we have to tip the hat to the provincial body that oversees deep sea angling in this part of the Eastern Cape region of South Africa:

EASTERN PROVINCE DEEP SEA ANGLING ASSOCIATION

Now, in South Africa, we officially recognise the Eastern Cape as a single province. But in the world of deep sea fishing, we still distinguish between the Eastern Province and Border Deep Sea – the dividing line being around East London (everything on the PE side is considered Eastern Province, from East London onwards is Border).

And the Eastern Province Deep Sea Angling Association (EPDSAA) is one of the best-known and most active regional bodies in the country. Still producing a lot of SA’s top anglers and supporting the national South African Deep Sea Angling Association. But EPDSAA also serves its member clubs, and this is where you can find almost anything you’re looking for – from guidance on boat registration to SAMSA small boat regulations help, to just finding a club where you feel you belong (see them all listed below!). And you can follow EPDSAA on their website and Facebook.

074 027 9140 | admin@epdsaa.co.za

SKI-BOAT CLUBS OF EASTERN PROVINCE

DIAZ DEEP SEA CLUB

Situated in one of the most beautiful holiday, rock-, shore- and offshore sea fishing locations on South Africa’s Eastern Cape. The Diaz Deep Sea Club offers surf-launch and a well-appointed clubhouse where fishermen and families meet. It’s also excellent for weddings and functions. Plus: It’s home of the SaltWater Masters contest for rock, surf and deep sea fishing at Kenton on Sea. With membership fees at R550 per year, it’s time to discover Diaz Deep Sea Club.

Somerset Street, Kenton on Sea | 082 809 4303 | bruce@valhalla.net.za

PORT ALFRED RIVER AND SKI BOAT CLUB

At one of SA’s few true river port towns, Port Alfred River and Ski-Boat Club offers a unique experience – you get direct Kowie River and ocean access! But it’s also a super-inviting social club. Open every day of the week, with full bar, restaurant and facilities, weekly Tuesday wild draw competitions, fish frys and weigh-and-pay steak nights on Fridays.

The Willows, Port Alfred | (046) 624 4532 | info@parsc.co.za | WhatsApp: +27 76 123 8802 | Facebook

PORT ELIZABETH DEEP SEA ANGLING CLUB (PEDSAC)

One of the best-known boat and angling clubs on SA’s coast, PEDSAC is one of only three clubs in the country that is located on Transnet land inside a working commercial harbour – Port Elizabeth harbour. This means PEDSAC has direct access to the harbour, with both a slipway for trailer launches and moorings to accommodate larger boats. With over 330 members and loads of competitions, facilities (extremely popular bar and restaurant) and things to do, it’s worth checking in at PEDSAC.

Humewood Extension, Port Elizabeth | 041-5822701 | denise@pedsac.co.za | Website | Facebook

NOORDHOEK SKI-BOAT CLUB

One of PE’s best-kept boating secrets! Off the beaten track and a little outside of PE town, Noordhoek Ski-Boat Club is situated on the dunes, with rustic wood-and-brick clubhouse, bar and facilities on a secluded stretch of beach. Worth visiting at least once (but be warned you’re going to want to stay)!

Marine Drive, Port Elizabeth | 082 320 3945 | manager@nsbcpe.co.za | Facebook

PORT ST FRANCIS SKI BOAT AND YACHT CLUB

Tuna, marlin, geelbek, cob, and red romans. Easily one of the most picturesque clubs on the list, Port St Francis Ski-Boat and Yacht Club sits right in the idyllic St Francis harbour, with awesome bar, restaurant and facilities. Known for the annual big tuna challenge in April and big family fishing tourney in December, it’s one of those great clubs everyone loves to come back to.

Triton Ave, St Francis Bay | 084 383 7098 or 087 138 0609 | info@sfb-skiboatclub.co.za | Website | Facebook

Port St Francis Ski-Boat and Yacht Club is the home of the Tuna Challenge.

ST FRANCIS ROD, REEL AND BOAT CLUB

Chaired by tuna legend Tim Christy, St Francis Rod, Reel and Boat Club offers pro guidance for those who want to improve their game, as well as more casual enjoyment of the sport. The club will help with surveys, skipper’s tickets and (importantly) can give advice on international angling.

St Francis Bay, South Africa | 082 569 3750 | Facebook

DISCOVER MORE SKI-BOAT CLUBS

Also explore with us the ski-boat clubs of Border, and some of the country’s idyllic – the ski-boat clubs of the Southern Cape.

Did you know we are the new dealer for Garmin Marine in Port Elizabeth.

See the entire collection of awesome video fishing tips.

ALL NEW BOATS

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

—

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

Discover These 30 Awesome Ski Boat Clubs in Natal

Nauti-Tech Suzuki — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 03:55:37 +0000

From spectacular game and bottom fishing to awesome restaurants, boating facilities and some of the biggest angling tournaments on the continent – 30+ ski-boat clubs of Natal

Awesome marlin, dorado and wahoo. Clubhouses built right on the beach. And places with some of the best-supported angling get-togethers in the world. Better get ready for some awesome surf launches, because we’re heading out to discover 30+ awesome ski boat clubs in Natal.

But before we do, we have to tip the hat to the provincial body that oversees this region of SA:

NATAL DEEP SEA ANGLING ASSOCIATION

Now, we might officially consider KwaZulu-Natal as a single province, but in the angling fraternity, we still distinguish broadly between southern KZN – referred to here as Natal – and the northern parts of the province, which fall under Zululand Deep Sea. See the recent clubs collective we created under ski-boat clubs of Zululand.

In Natal, though, the Natal Deep Sea Angling Association (NDSAA), located in Durban, is the official regional representative body for deep-sea boat fishing. The NDSAA organises all provincial- and regional-level competitions along with the SADSAA, and they’ll usually assist local clubs in hosting big national and provincial events and projects. It helps set and enforce regulations, such as safety and marine protection, but will also step up and be a voice for anglers when need be – like with Covid-19 when we recently had to push for government to allow fishing in lockdown.

15 Gordge Road, Umbilo, Durban | 031 205 6310 | office@ndsaa.co.za | Website

SKI-BOAT CLUBS OF NATAL

SHELLY BEACH SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish and bottomfish
Spectacular tuna, dorado and wahoo fishing. Awesome restaurant menu, facilities and swimming pool. There’s awesome competitive and leisure fishing along the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. And one of the region’s most famous is this Margate club – not only for the annual Shelly Beach Ski-Boat Festival. Discover the great vibe, services, pool, bar and facilities, plus a few good fishing spots the locals know at Shelly Beach Ski-Boat Club.

Albert Meyer Dr, Shelly Beach, Margate | 076 758 2381 | shellyp@venturenet.co.za | Website

DURBAN SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish and bottomfish
One of the country’s most famous clubs! If not only for annually hosting one of the biggest angling competitions in the world: the Durban Ski-Boat Festival. With a popular restaurant and club facilities, tractor-assisted surf launch and a private boat wash bay, it’s great for both recreational and competitive angling. And, of course, they’re located right on Durban’s harbour development district, for easy beach and launch access.

1 Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Point, Durban | 031 337 9506 | accounts@dsbc.co.za | Website

WARNADOONE SKI-BOAT CLUB

Bottomfish, some game fish
Serving another of SA’s most popular holiday areas on the Natal South Coast, including Amanzimtoti and Kingsburgh, Warnadoone is best-known around the country for their annual Warnadoone Interzonals. Often producing some of the nicest musselcracker you’ve seen, the club’s a bottom fish haven, though, being on the Natal coast, there’s plenty of game fish too! Discover Warnadoone Ski-Boat Club.

1 Warnadoone Way, Warner Beach, Kingsburgh | 031 916 4030 | warnadooenskiboatclub@gmail.com | Website

BALLITO SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish, some bottomfish
Another beautiful clubhouse situated right on the beach. Even social members love to just gather and watch the boats come in – it’s a surf launch. And the club welcomes kayak and jet ski owners too. While most target game fish, there’s some decent bottom fishing to be had here to the North of Durban at Ballito Ski-Boat Club.

Ballito Drive, Salmon Bay, Dolphin Coast | 074 495 5555 | smtaljaard@gmail.com

NATAL DEEP SEA ROD AND REEL

Game fish, some bottomfish
Rich in history, this once traditional yacht club right on Durban’s marina is now a hub for almost every type of recreational and competitive angler. With yacht moorings right in front of the clubhouse, beautiful facilities and a view to die for, it’s no wonder that it’s also a very popular wedding venue with the general public in Durban. Discover Natal Rod and Reel.

Wilson Wharf, Durban Central | 082 651 9346 | natalrodandreel@gmail.com

MARLIN SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish
Ah, now we get to the Wild Coast region! Perhaps most famous for its annual big game fish challenges, Marlin Ski-Boat Club in port Edward has an awesome clubhouse and restaurant/pub. But the club also oversees an important surf launch site – most notably they also need to ensure that nearby marine protected areas stay guarded. That said, though, the club will help even non-members launch from their site for a small fee. And it’s pretty famous for its pioneering work in promoting catch and release in South Africa. Discover Marlin Ski-Boat Club.

North Sand Bluff, Port Edward | 039 311 2811 | marlinskiboatclub@telkomsa.net | Website

BLUFF YACHT CLUB

Game fish, some bottomfish
Unpretentious, fun and a place you want to come back to. Situated on the water at Durban’s Bluff area, Bluff Yacht Club has a reputation for offering a great atmosphere, bar, pool and good food, while still being accessible and enjoyable for anyone at any age. With a diverse community of members, from sailing to powered boats, this club has a big focus on the social aspects of club membership. Discover Bluff Yacht Club.

7 Seafarer Rd, Bayhead, Durban | 031 466 1386 | bluffyachtclub@xsinet.co.za

PENNINGTON SKI-BOAT CLUB

Mostly game fish
Also right on the beach, and no stranger to hosting the best in Natal provincial and national-level anglers. The club has a large member base, but it’s also a beloved lunch or dinner spot for locals and tourists – the restaurant’s quite famous in these parts! Discover the awesome vibe at Pennington Ski-Boat Club.

3 Salmon Dr, Pennington | 083 289 6705 | info@psbc.org.za

BOBBIES ANGLING CLUB

Bottom fish, some game fish
Right in the heart of the Durban bay area, Bobbies was historically a police-service club (hence the name Bobbies), but today has a broad base of members who practice a range of angling disciplines too. The clubhouse is open 4 days a week, with drinks, good food and special events almost weekly. Though most members just come here to use the braai facilities too. Discover Bobbies Angling Club.

Seafarer Rd, Bayhead, Durban | 079 501 2704

HIBBERDENE SKI-BOAT CLUB

Mainly game fish
Probably best-known for the big annual Couta Classic – one of the biggest events of its kind in Africa. Located on the Mzimayi River, between park Rynie and Margate, the club has a pretty sought-after surf launch site where, though anyone can ask to launch for a fee, it’s best to get in contact with the club as members get preference. Discover Hibberdene Ski-Boat Club.

Mzimayi River Mouth, Hibberdene | 336 144 0556 | info@hibberdeneskiboatclub.co.za | Website

UMKOMAAS SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish and bottomfish
A small but very dedicated club. Known for its famous “chocolate” water at the surf launch site, where the popular whitewater-rafting Umkhomazi River mouths into the ocean. The club mainly serves its dedicated member community, who are very environmentally conscious due to the area’s history with industrial pollution, but they feature nationally once a year with their annual interzonal challenge. Discover Umkomaas Ski-Boat Club.

Umkomanzi Drift, Umkomaas | 0630087891

UMHLANGA ROCKS SKI-BOAT CLUB

Mainly game fish
Famous for the annual Umhlanga Boat Festival, the club is well-loved and supported by member and the community. With an awesome restaurant and pub, as well as a dedicated surf launch site.

https://youtu.be/CTJOmkx501g

75 Twilight Drive, Umhlanga Rocks | 083 793 8094 | infoursbc@gmail.com | Website

MIDLANDS SKI-BOAT CLUB

Mostly game fish
Awesome beach surf launch as well as Midmar dam excursions – and the club caters for scuba diving too. This is where you go for boating in the Pietermaritzburg area. Discover Midlands Ski-Boat Club.

Pietermaritzburg | 082 727 8658 | mscoffice5@gmail.com | Website

ISIPINGO BEACH SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish and bottomfish
Just south of Durban, near the Sapref Sports Centre, Isipingo Beach Ski-Boat Club boasts a really awesome and newly renovated clubhouse right on the beach. With tractor-assisted surf launches and a friendly attitude towards all new members – boat owner or not, you’re always welcome. And a reputation for delivering some lekker marlin. Discover Isipingo Beach Ski-Boat Club.

Reunion Park Beach, Sapref Sports, Isipingo | 083 415 7806

WESTBROOK SKI-BOAT CLUB (TONGAAT)

Game fish, some bottomfish
Another incredibly beautiful clubhouse right on the beach. Westbrook Ski-Boat Club is in Westbrook near Tongaat (north of Umhlanga), with a core group of members that meet regularly and organise awesome events in the community too.

Westbrook, KwaZulu-Natal | 082 857 6572 | basilh@servest.co.za

LIST OF SMALLER SKI-BOAT CLUBS IN NATAL

Now, there are a great many ski-boat clubs in Natal – we’re pretty sure we’re going to keep adding to this list for some time still to come. And we haven’t been able to visit them all ourselves (although that’s a pretty awesome bucket list idea!). And not all of them have websites or Facebook pages. But they do exist and they have very passionate core memberships, so we’re going to list the names, locations and a contact number here, in case you’re in the area and want to connect with the local club:

Injambili Ski-Boat Club

Active at Pumula Beach, between Hibberdene and Port Shepstone – contact Mike Fraser: 082 460 3424

Blythedale Beach Ski-Boat Club

Active at Blythedale Beach, near KwaDukuza and Stanger between Shaka’s Rock and the Tugela River Mouth – contact Cornel and Annelize Van Zyl: 086 614 7959

Glenmore Angling Club

Active at Glenmore Beach in Munster, south of Margate and just before Port Edward – contact Olivier Broome: 079 893 6571

Greytown Angling Club

Active near Greytown, almost directly north of Pietermaritzburg – contact Dean Brown: 082 820 2992

Hibiscus Ski-Boat Club

Active at Ramsgate, right near Margate, this deep-sea angling club also offers bass fishing excursions – contact Theo Peyios: 086 543 3288

Mtwalume Ski-Boat Club

Activate at Mtwalume, right near Ifafa beach between Pennington and Hibberdene – contact Bruce de Ghaye: 082 555 0907

Nambiti (Spioenkop) Boat Club

Active in the Nambiti and Spioenkop regions (game reserves) near Ladysmith, south of Dundee – contact Cobus Botha: 082 459 8226

Neptunes Boating & Angling Club

Active at the Durban harbour – no 5 Seafarer Rd, Bayhead, Durban. Contact 031 465 5208 or email neptuenanglingclub@yahoo.co.za

Park Rynie Ski-boat Club

Active at Park Rynie, near Scottburgh – contact Kevin Fourie: 083 391 9802

Newcastle Ski-boat Club

Active at Newcastle, north of Ladysmith – contact Mike Swart; 082 889 2263

Vryheid (Northern Natal) Ski-boat Club

Active at Utrecht St in Vryheid near the city of Newcastle – contact Martin Slabbert: 083 651 6818

Pompano Angling Club

Also still active the Durban harbour – bayhead, Durban – contact Andy West: 082 568 7330

Protea Billfish Club

Active at Umtentweni, Port Shepstone – contact Don Smith: 039 695 2036

Sezela Ski-boat Club

Active in Sezela, just south of Pennington – contact Reinhart Kerkhof: 083 655 4776

Umdloti Beach Ski-boat Club

Active at Umdloti Beach, just north of Umhlanga – contact Roelf van Rooyen: 031 568 1033

Umhlali Ski-boat Club

Active near Umhlali, on the Dolphin Coast, Close to Shaka’s Rock – contact Trevor Spence: 079 506 6131

See the entire collection of awesome video fishing tips.

NEW BOATS TO EXPLORE

Discover the all-new leisure-or-business CarryCat Explorer 560 Pontoon Boat.

ALL NEW BOATS

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

—

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

NEW: Discover the Ski Boat Clubs of Zululand

Nauti-Tech Suzuki — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 07:54:20 +0000

From game fishing havens in nature reserves and estuaries to small, secret fishing spots along the northern KwaZulu-Natal coast

From legendary billfish tales at Cape Vidal to the best of game fishing from St Lucia to Richards Bay. These are all the exciting ski-boats clubs of Zululand to explore on fishing trips along KwaZulu-Natal’s north coast.

Plus: A quick look at the official body that oversees them.

OVERSEEING BODY

Although South Africa today views KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) as a single province, in the world of deep-sea angling, overseen by the South African Deep Sea Angling Association (SADSAA), KZN is still divided into two distinct regions: the south coast falls under the Natal Deep Sea Angling Association – see all the ski-boat clubs in Natal. While the north coast falls under Zululand Deep Sea Angling.

And since we’re looking at the north coast, the clubs featured on this page all fall under the ZDSAA:

ZULULAND DEEP SEA ANGLING ASSOCIATION (ZDSAA)

The official regional representative body for deep-sea boat fishing in northern KZN, known as Zululand. The ZDSAA organises all provincial- and regional-level competitions along with the SADSAA, and they’ll usually assist local clubs in hosting big national and provincial events. When you join any of the clubs in this post, you usually get automatic membership to the ZDSAA, meaning you can contact them for your skippers’ tickets and your catches are eligible to be recorded among those of the region’s angling record holders.

45 Anglers Road, Richards Bay | 035 753 5804 | Email contact | Website

SKI-BOAT CLUBS OF ZULULAND

MAPELANE SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish

Famous for its big marlin and pelagic game fish. A close-knit and conservation-minded club offering a family-friendly atmosphere. Mapelane Ski-Boat Club is located inside KwaZulu-Natal’s famous 800+ acre iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Founded in 1963, it’s an off-the-grid-style club with 58-strong member families who are as devoted to conservation as they are to game fishing. Discover Mapelane Ski-Boat Club.

iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, St Lucia, KZN | 083 446 5297 | Follow their Facebook page

MEERENSEE BOAT CLUB

Game fish and bottomfish

From tuna and dorado in the deep to an amazing list of common bottom fish species. Meerensee Boat Club is situated in very near the waterfront and yacht club in Richards Bay. And it is a multidisciplinary club, featuring everything from boat fishing (deep and bottom fishing) to light tackle, canoe and kayak and even shore angling. There’s a pool and lapa as well as big events space, and the club even helps host small functions, such as birthdays, weddings and get-togethers. Popular fishing spots are inside the harbour, Rooiwalle and Groenkop. Discover Meerensee Boat Club.

1 Commodore Close, Richards Bay | 035 788 0258 | info@msbc.co.za

ST LUCIA SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish

Set inside a World Heritage Site, the deep sea angling at this club is all surf launch and focused on game fish and billfish. And they have awesome facilities, including one of the most popular restaurants and pubs in St Lucia. The club is known for its remarkable views, family-friendly atmosphere and excellent fishing. Popular fishing spots are the wreck of the Jolly Robino and the Cape St Lucia Lighthouse Reef. Discover more about St Lucia Ski-Boat Club.

Sugar Loaf Rd, St Lucia Estuary, KZN | 035 590 1376 | chairman@slsbc.co.za

RICHARDS BAY SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish and bottomfish

Very close to Meerensee club and Zululand Yacht Club, Richards Bay Ski-Boat Club is unique because of it’s awesome facilities. Located centrally in Richards Bay, it even has its own caravan park and camping facilities. Not to mention all the eventing, restaurant and bar facilities, pool and boat facilities, too. And the fishing is awesome – it’s home to the Richards Bay Billfish Invitational.

1 Beach Rd, Richards Bay | 035 753 2516 | Website

UMLALAZI SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish

A few kilometres south of Richards Bay at Mtunzini on the Umlalazi River, Umlalazi Ski-Boat Club (sometimes called Mtunzi Boat Club) is the home of the famous annual Couta Classic in May. It has loads of great facilities, including a pool. And it’s mostly surf launches from here, with a big focus on game and pelagic fish species.

1 Hulley Ave, Mtunzini | 035 340 1006 | umlalazi@telkomsa.net

Want to know about fishing comps at Umlalazi? Check out the event info for the 2024 Umlalazi Couta Classic.

ZULULAND YACHT CLUB

Not strictly a ski-boat club, Zululand Yacht Club in Richards Bay is more geared for the sailing community, although it does have some powered boat members. It boasts a clubhouse right on the famous Richards Bay marina, with one of the most popular seafood restaurants in the area and loads of great facilities, including a campground, 5 different function venues, garages and boat sheds.

1 Commodore Close, Meer En See, Richards Bay | 035 788 0256 | Website

AMATIKULU SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish

Between Mtunizini and the Tugela River mouth, and near the Amatikulu Nature Reserve, Amatikulu Ski-Boat Club is a primarily game fish club, famous for their annual Cape to Rio competition.

Jacaranda Drive, Amatikulu | 073 141 4940 or 082 496 1884 | amatikulu@gmail.com

CAPE VIDAL SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish

One of the three big clubs in the St Lucia region, Cape Vidal Ski-Boat Club is known as a rich hunting ground for game fish. In fact, there’s a legend around the marlin at this club. It’s said that during a billfish competition held here in 2010 or 2011, 22 boats launched on the first day and caught a total of 22 billfish or all species. That’s 1 billfish per boat, just on day one.

Lot 21 Mdoni Road, Saint Lucia Estuary | 035 590 9012

HLUHLUWE SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish

Another beautiful surf launch club that’s mainly geared for game fish, especially billfish. Although it’s a small club, not the best-known in the Zululand region, the individual anglers from the club are all very well known in fishing circles, competing in most comps along the KwaZulu-Natal coast.

Hluhluwe, KZN | 082 882 0065 or 083 300 2735

ZINKWAZI SKI-BOAT CLUB

Game fish

As good for fishing as it is for a holiday. Ths club boasts one of the most spectacular clubhouses in the country – it’s literally right on the beach. So much so that, when there’s a storm, it’s not uncommon for the whole clubhouse to flood. When it’s dry, though, it contains the Mahogany Reef, one of the most popular pubs in the region.

75 Nkwazi Dr, Zinkwazi Beach, Nkwazi | 072 478 6392 | zinkskiboat@gmail.com

—

Also check out Team SA sailfish captain Goerge Breedt’s awesome tips on fishing Natal Snoek and SA game fish captain Shane Dennis’s tips for making a couta trace.

See the entire collection of awesome video fishing tips.

Check out all this year’s big fishing competitions.

ALL NEW BOATS

—

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

—

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

Discover a Game Fish Haven at Mapelane Ski-Boat Club

Nauti-Tech Suzuki — Mon, 17 Feb 2020 18:28:43 +0000

All about family: Clubhouse info, contacts, membership and facilities, plus common fish species and the best fishing spots at Mapelane Ski-Boat Club near St Lucia

Famous for its big marlin and pelagic game fish. A close-knit and conservation-minded club offering a family-friendly atmosphere. Here’s everything you want to know about the clubhouse, facilities, fish species, competitions, fishing spots and membership at Mapelane Ski-Boat Club.

DISCOVER MAPELANE SKI-BOAT CLUB

Situated inside KwaZulu-Natal’s famous 800+ acre iSimangaliso Wetland Park, which includes Lake St Lucia and the vast natural habitat that’s home to so many majestic African bird and animal species: from hippo and crocodile to giraffe, flamingo and pelican. Mapelane Ski-Boat Club really is unique among SA clubs.

In fact, it’s right near the heart of the park, situated very close to the St Lucia estuary, meaning you physically have to drive through the park to get to the clubhouse – about 2 hours’ drive from Durban.

Founded in 1963, it’s separated from the nearby St Lucia club by the river, and it’s famous for its game fish. And Mapelane Ski-Boat Club is very involved in the nature conservation efforts in the area, working very closely with the parks boards to ensure the preservation of the natural world – both offshore and on land.

MAPELANE CLUBHOUSE

Now, while the clubhouse is rigged with most everything it needs to host its 58 members, who meet here in great numbers a few times a year, there’s no permanent bar or restaurant at the clubhouse itself. It simply wouldn’t make sense this deep in parklands – in fact, most people that come this way are either members or here to visit the wetlands, but the public is still welcome. Just ring at the club gate, if you’re in the area, and a member will sign you in.

In fact, Club chairman Les Hartley says they’ve found that it’s easier to organise catering and services whenever they have a big event or fishing competition.

CLUB MEMBERSHIP

Being a little bit off-the-grid, Mapelane Ski-Boat Club offers its 58-strong member families a real break-away-style fishing experience. You’re kilometres away from the nearest civilisation, surrounded by some of the most beautiful and celebrated estuary parklands.

And that, along with the club’s fierce devotion to nature conservation, does mean they have to be selective of who they take on as members. “We’re a family-orientated club, and we do insist that our members subscribe to our conversation ethos,” says Les. “That means we’re a little different from other clubs, in that we vet our members very carefully.

“You have to come in and meet everyone, and our members will nominate you for membership. There’s also a trial period, with a temporary membership pending final approval. And, for us, you have to be a boat owner to qualify for membership at Mapelane.”

The membership fees structure at Mapelane is also monthly. And, for any queries regarding membership, Les says you’re welcome to give him a ring on 083 446 5297.

SURF LAUNCHES AT THE CLUB

Mapelane Ski-Boat Club offers you access to surf launches straight into the ocean from the beach, and you’re right around the corner from the bay to head out to deeper water. The club also has tractors and everything it needs to assist with surf launch and retrieval.

FISHING AT MAPELANE

Now, the club’s famous for its game fish. And in fact, most fishing takes place deeper out in the bay, because it’s a marine protected area and you can’t do any bottom fishing around here. But the game fishing is spectacular.

The area is home to many pelagic species. And summer is marlin season. You’ll almost every species of billfish here, from black marlin to striped marlin and even blue marlin. Sailfish is also extremely common here.

Apart from the marlin, there’s monster dorado and snoek, as well as couta and almost every species of gamefish you can imagine. And if you go really deep, you’ll find the area has some tuna averaging at the 80–90kg end of the scale.

FISHING COMPETITIONS

At the beginning of the year, Mapelane hosts one of SA’s most celebrated billfish competitions. Running for over 20 years now, it started in 2000 as one of the first – if not the first – 100% tag-and-release marlin tournaments in the country. Discover the Mapelane Billfish Invitational.

In winter – which in this part of the world is still so temperate it’s practically no different from what you’d call summer anywhere else – the club hosts another three awesome tournaments. It’s all about catching trophy-worthy fish at the Mapelane Trophy Interclub. And then it’s all species-focused action in the Mapelane Couta Derby – see these listed among all the fishing competitions in May.

And around June every year, it’s all about family at the Mapelane Junior Interclub – see it among our fishing competitions in June.

Plus: Get all the important info about the Mapelane Game Fish Challenge.

FAMOUS MAPELANE FISHING SPOTS

Now, the locals here are extremely helpful in sharing information about where the fish are, and you’d have access to all that information as a club member. But Les did give us some indication on where you can find most species.

About 4km offshore from where you launch at Mapelane, there’s a natural rock and seabed formation known as the Mapelane Gat (Hole) where you can find most species. And it’s where most guys will go looking for marlin.

And then Mapelane also gives you access to fishing up north, past the St Lucia area and even as far as Cape Vidal. These waters are also quite rich in pelagic species.

MAPELANE SKI-BOAT CLUB

iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, St Lucia, KZN
Phone: 083 446 5297
Follow their Facebook page

Some pics here by Kenau Ballot.

MAPELANE SBC MEMBERSHIP

Monthly membership for boat owners and families only, with member nomination and a trial membership pending approval by the club. Contact chairman Les Hartley for info: 083 446 5297.

MAPELANE SBC FACILITIES

The clubhouse is secluded in a wetlands park, and there is no permanent bar or restaurant, but catering arranged for special events and occasions. All launches are surf launch, with tractors supplied by the club.

—

Also nearby, discover St Lucia Ski-Boat Club and, more towards the Richards Bay area, see Meerensee Ski-Boat Club. Plus: Discover all the ski-boat clubs in Zululand.

And discover all of this year’s big fishing competitions.

PLUS: See how to create the ideal nail knot for game fish lures.

ALL NEW BOATS

—

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

—

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

So Much Fish: Discover Suidpunt Deep Sea Angling Club

Nauti-Tech Suzuki — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 05:56:57 +0000

One of SA’s top angling destinations: Suidpunt Deep Sea Angling Club (Diepsee Hengelklub)

Yellowtail for days. An awesome atmosphere. Some of the best in angling and hospitality Struisbaai has to offer. (Not to mention it’s one of the marine diverse areas in SA!) Here’s what you need to know about the facilities, fishing spots, history and how to become a member at Suidpunt Deep Sea Angling Club in Struisbaai.

DISCOVER SUIDPUNT DEEP SEA ANGLING CLUB

Perhaps better known as Suidpunt Diepsee Hengelklub, South Africa’s most south-westerly located club, Suidpunt Deep Sea Angling Club, in Struisbaai in the Overberg’s Cape Agulhas region (7 minutes from L’Agulhas and about 2 hours from Cape Town), gives you access to some of the most marine diverse stretches of ocean in the country.

Best known for its monster Agulhas Yellowtail, you can actually fish almost any species you can think of – it’s most certainly one fo the best spots to go after bigger game fish like marlin in the Cape.

With over 120 members, loads of great fishing and a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Suidpunt Deep Sea Angling is just as popular with locals as it is with Capetonian anglers for an awesome fishing weekend getaway.

FOOD, FUNCTIONS AND FUN AT SUIDPUNT DEEP SEA ANGLING CLUB

The club boasts an awesome restaurant preparing delicious food daily, as well as a pub and the clubhouse that serves as a function venue – ask them about hiring it out for your next function.

The clubhouse is located close to the local sports club, and that means you get access to the tennis courts or you can join the local bridge team for a small extra annual fee.

What’s more, the facilities are open to the public to come and meet the members and experience the vibe. All you need is for a member to sign you in, and then you’re free to enjoy all the facilities, including the kiddies play area for the little ones.

FACILITIES FOR BOATS

The club provides access to the slipways into the small harbour, from where most of the deep sea fishing in this area takes place. And you can ask about inspections and assistance with getting all your documents sorted, too.

HISTORY OF SUIDPUNT DEEP SEA ANGLING CLUB

The club started alongside Cape Boat and Ski-Boat Club (near Simons Town) in the 1980s, when a small group of members created their own rules and structure for a club in Struisbaai. And, under the leadership of SA legend, Earl Fenwick, the club grew to one of the most beloved clubs in the area. It features regularly on SADSAA’s popular angling tournaments calendars.

FISHING COMPETITIONS IN STRUISBAAI

At the start of the year (normally in February), Suidpunt Deep Sea Angling Club hosts one of the only billfish competitions in the Cape. Taking place 7–14 February in 2020, discover the Two Oceans Marlin Tournament.

In March and April 2020, the club will host the annual SADSAA Bottomfish Nationals, and, a junior bottomfish interprovincial alongside Gordon’s Bay SBC in September, as well as the popular family yellowtail comp in December.

Keep up with details via the club’s website and Facebook page.

THE FISHING AT SUIDPUNT DEEP SEA ANGLING CLUB

Now, the best part about Struisbaai and the Agulhas area is the abundance of marine life. You can fish virtually every species imaginable in these waters. From bottomfish to game fish, they’re all here. It’s too many species to mention, and they’re all fishable from this one place.

Of course, the big favourite is yellowtail. Ahulgas yellowtail is legendary, as they grow to immense sizes in these fertile waters.

And you’ll also find that the club plays home to the local rock and surf fishing club, as well as some real SA fishing legends, like Mr Earl Fenwick, so there’s plenty of opportunities to swap stories and get a few tips from a wide variety of anglers.

FISHING SPOTS NEAR STRUISBAAI

One of the most popular spots in the area is the 12 Mile Bank, located about 16 nautical miles offshore from Struisbaai. It’s a reef pinnacle that’s known to deliver awesome yellowtail and skipjack.

In fact, most of the good fishing – apart from the harbour wall and shore angling at Die Plaat – is around natural reefs in the area. There’s 5 Mile Bank, a 45 Mile Bank (know as the 45s) and the extremely popular Alphard Bank, a remote and virtually unspoilt haven for bait and pelagic fish about 40 nautical miles out from Struisbaai.

You can catch anything from yellowtail to tuna, kob, stumpnose, bonito to geelbek and even marlin. It really is a marine diverse area. But note, things can get a little tricky when the swell comes in, so it’s best to check in with the guys at the club, they’ll help you find the best spots safely.

SUIDPUNT DEEP SEA ANGLING CLUB CONTACTS

Hoofweg, Struisbaai, Western Cape
Phone: 076 191 3744
Email: gonefishing@suidpuntdiepseehengelklub.co.za
Website: http://suidpuntdiepseehengelklub.co.za/
Also on Facebook

SUIDPUNT DEEP SEA MEMBERSHIP FEES

R660 per year (R360 juniors), including WPDSAA affiliation – note: R100 entry fee for first-time registrations. Download membership forms here.

SUIDPUNT DEEP SEA FACILITIES

Clubhouse (available to rent as function venue), restaurant, pub, kiddies play area, slipways for boat launches and tennis courts (at an extra annual fee).

Thanks to club chair Hubert Meyer, Marinda De Kock and team!

—

Also in the region, discover Kleinbaai’s Overberg Boat Club.

And discover all of this year’s big fishing competitions and see how to make a proper wind-on leader.

NEW BOATS TO EXPLORE

Discover the all-new leisure-or-business CarryCat Explorer 560 Pontoon Boat.

ALL NEW BOATS

—

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

—

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.