Angling Conditions Report: Coffee Bay to Mtwalume

Sardine News Update

Welcome back to another edition of the Sardine News! It’s a slow Friday, but we’ve received a fresh set of angling reports from along the coast.

Ifafa

Yesterday’s scene at Ifafa was nothing short of spectacular—sardines galore! The sheer volume of fish was impressive, and while some might speculate about red eyes or other species, this was unmistakably a large population of sardines.

Umtentweni

This morning in Tweni, gannets were seen diving with precision into the water column, a sure sign that sardines are present. A beautiful sight and promising conditions for anglers.

Port Edward

Steven reports from Splash Rock in Port Edward that the usual crowd of fishermen is out early, hoping to catch shad. The key is to arrive before dawn—otherwise, your chances are slim. Perhaps Mydos and Squidgits from Ian and Sean could improve the odds. Further down at Lucky Dip, only one solitary fisherman was spotted. The sea is flat with plenty of white foamies working the water—ideal conditions for fishing.

Port St Johns

From the Hilltop in Port St Johns, the view is breathtaking. Despite some background noise from local kids, the scene stretches endlessly and offers a tranquil backdrop for anglers.

Coffee Bay

Mannie Jorreiro checks in from the Nenga River mouth in Coffee Bay. After a morning walk with the pooches, he was greeted by birds flying from south to north and diving across the ocean. Whale activity was also spotted offshore, with breaching captured by foreign tourists. Later in the day, Mannie fished in pleasant conditions—18°C sea temperature and a light southwest breeze. Shad were scarce, but the experience was rewarding.

Final Notes

Fishing conditions are excellent across the region, though catches remain elusive. Don’t forget to like and subscribe to Sardine News to stay updated.

Join the Sardine Hotline for real-time updates from Port Edward to the north. It’s especially useful for those competing in the shad competition.

Also, check out the Mydo store and the Sardine News tackle shop for gear that could help you land that big shad.

Tight lines and see you next time!

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.

2025 Sardine Map

2024 Sardine Map

2023 Sardine Map

2022 Sardine Map

2021 Sardine Map

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 – self-catering right on the Umzimkulu River
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
brucifire.co.za – surf retorts