Fishing Report January 2026

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Fishing Conditions    

                     

Temp (River): Average of 19ºC – 24ºC

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Water Clarity: The water is settling down nicely with the decreased water inflow to the Dam.

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Water Level: 82.29%

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Rainfall: 194.5mm

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Other Conditions: The Water level has decreased slightly again as the Department of Water & Sanitation released water from 10th January for an extended period. The catches were good this month, particularly in the cleaner water area near the mouth of the main Dam.

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Fishing Area: From Mpalane Bay, in front of Nkwazi Lake Lodge, Pump Station, the bay as you pass the KZN Wildlife campsites, Elephant Bay and towards the mouth of the main Dam. Just be careful of tree stumps in the water.

 

Fish Caught

 

Tiger Fish Sizes: Tiger Fish caught during the month ranged from 1kg – 5kg. The largest one of 5kg was caught on sardine. The fish were again on the bite this month, particularly the smaller Tigers!

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Total Tiger Fish: An average of 517 Tiger Fish were caught off the Pongola Game Reserve boats. The best baits being Sardine, chicken livers & chicken hearts.

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Other Species: Barbel were also caught while fishing for Tiger Fish using sardine and chicken livers.

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Lure Colour of the Month: No specific colours stood out as more successful this month, due to the murky water during the first half of the month.

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Important News: The fishing season is on us, with great conditions and plenty of good times out on the water. Don’t miss out on a fantastic experience, as we expect the catches to increase!

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