Remember to adapt your fishing techniques based on the specific conditions of each location, including tides, weather, and the type of fish you’re targeting. It’s always a good idea to check with local bait shops or experienced anglers in the area for the most up-to-date information on fishing conditions and hot spots. Additionally, respecting local regulations and practicing sustainable fishing practices will contribute to the long-term health of the ecosystem.

Fishing in Jeffrey’s Bay, St. Francis Bay, Oyster Bay, Cape St. Francis, Eerste Rivier, Gamtoos, Kabeljous Lagoon, Kromme River, Aston Bay, and Paradise Beach offers anglers an array of diverse experiences, from surf fishing to estuarine and river angling. These coastal and inland waterways in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province are rich in marine life, attracting anglers from around the world. Here’s an extensive guide to fishing in each of these locations:
Jeffrey’s Bay: Jeffrey’s Bay is renowned for its excellent surf fishing opportunities, offering anglers the chance to catch a variety of species from its long sandy beaches. Popular catches include kob, garrick, blacktail, and various shark species. Anglers can also target reef fish from rocky outcrops and jetties along the coastline. The Kabeljous River mouth provides further fishing opportunities, especially for estuarine species such as kob, mullet, and grunter. Fishing in Jeffrey’s Bay is best during calm weather and favorable tide conditions.

St. Francis Bay: St. Francis Bay boasts picturesque canals and estuarine systems, providing anglers with diverse fishing opportunities. The canals are ideal for targeting species like spotted grunter, mullet, and kob using live bait or artificial lures. The rocky points and beaches around St. Francis Bay offer excellent surf fishing for reef species such as elf, kob, and blacktail. During the summer months, migratory species like shad and yellowtail can also be caught. St. Francis Bay is a popular destination for anglers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Oyster Bay: Oyster Bay is a tranquil coastal town known for its pristine beaches and abundant fishing opportunities. Anglers can fish from the beach or rocky outcrops for species such as kob, garrick, and steenbras. The Oyster Bay River mouth is particularly productive, especially during the early morning and late afternoon. Fishing in Oyster Bay provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.
Cape St. Francis: Cape St. Francis offers a rugged coastline with rocky outcrops and sandy beaches, providing diverse fishing opportunities for anglers. The area around the Cape St. Francis Lighthouse is popular for targeting reef fish such as kob, elf, and blacktail. Anglers can cast from the rocks or fish from the beach using a variety of bait and lures. Cape St. Francis is known for its stunning natural beauty, making it a popular destination for both fishing and sightseeing.
Eerste Rivier: Eerste Rivier, near St. Francis Bay, is home to an estuarine system that provides excellent fishing opportunities for anglers. The river mouth and surrounding tidal flats are rich in marine life, attracting species such as kob, mullet, and grunter. Anglers can fish from the shore or explore the river by kayak or boat. Eerste Rivier offers a tranquil setting for fishing, with abundant birdlife and scenic views of the surrounding wetlands.


Paradise Beach: Paradise Beach, situated near Jeffrey’s Bay, lives up to its name with its pristine sandy shores and excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can fish from the beach or rocky outcrops for species such as kob, garrick, and steenbras. The area around the Seekoei River mouth is popular for surf fishing, especially during the early morning or late afternoon. Fishing in Paradise Beach offers anglers a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.
In conclusion, fishing in Jeffrey’s Bay, St. Francis Bay, Oyster Bay, Cape St. Francis, Eerste Rivier, Gamtoos, Kabeljous Lagoon, Kromme River, Aston Bay, and Paradise Beach offers anglers a diverse range of opportunities to experience South Africa’s rich marine biodiversity. Whether casting from sandy beaches, rocky outcrops, or estuarine systems, anglers can enjoy the thrill of the chase and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. By following local regulations and practicing sustainable fishing practices, anglers can help preserve these unique ecosystems for future generations to enjoy.

Jeffreys Bay`s unique squid industry
Jeffreys Bay lagoon and nature reserve
