Sardines at Port Edward 13 June 2026
Every winter, the South Coast of KwaZulu?Natal becomes the stage for one of nature’s most spectacular events — the sardine run. And nowhere is the excitement more palpable than at the sardines at Port Edward scene right now (10?AM), the seaside town perched at the southern tip of KZN. The sardines always seem to start their holiday here!
The news of “Sardines at Port Edward” carried with it a sense of relief. It was touch?and?go at times this year as the warm Agulhas Current refused to let up and allow the colder counter current to form. But now, with the counter current pushing north, the conditions are finally right for the shoals to move inshore.
Locals, visitors, and fishermen alike wait for the silver shoals to appear, swimming just beneath the surface as they move northward. When the sardines arrive, the ocean comes alive. Gannets dive like arrows, dolphins and sharks herd the fish into bait balls, and game fish smash through the shoals in a frenzy. Even whales join the feast, turning the coastline into a living display of marine drama.
For the community, sardines are more than just fish — they are a signal of changing seasons and a reminder of the ocean’s abundance. Netters are already on the beach, selling fresh sards straight from the nets. Families gather to watch the spectacle, while anglers dust off their tackle boxes, hoping for a garrick or shad in the mix.
Port Edward’s location makes it a prime viewing spot. The cold counter current really got moving about three days ago, creating the perfect conditions for sardines to surge into KZN. Birds rafting offshore are the surest sign that the shoals are here.
?? Please be aware of the dangers when nets are deployed — waves, ropes, vehicles, and even sharks are powerful forces at play. Give crews space until the nets are secure.
So pack your binoculars, bring your fishing rod, and head to Port Edward — the sardines are waiting.
Sardines and Sighting Maps
Here are the links to existing and past Sardine Sighting Maps. With instructions on how to install The Sardine News right on your phone, tablet, or even desktop.
YouTube Channels
Brucifire Surf Retorts – highly entertaining surf reporting
Master Watermen – news from way down deep
The Sardine News – neva miss a single sardine
FishBazaruto – 1000 pounds plus
MYDO Tackle Talk – highly technical sport fishing
Surf Launching Southern Africa – getting out there safely
Water Woes – complain about your municipality here
Websites
umzimkulu.co.za – fishing, charters, accommodation
umzimkuluadrenalin.co.za – will get you right out and onto the edge
thesardine.co.za – never miss a single sardine
masterwatermen.co.za – news from under water
fishbazaruto.com – dreams are out there
brucifire.co.za – surf retorts
fishmad.co.za – destination Madagascar
andantelodge.co.za – Transit luxury in Pretoria
destinycottage.co.za – Mbotyi dreams
