Obituary: Gerald Buckle
Obituary: Gerald Buckle. The fishing community mourns the loss of Gerald Buckle, a man whose life was inseparably tied to the sea, the sardine runs, and the friendships forged along the Durban coast. Gerald was more than a stalwart of the sardine industry — he was its living memory, carrying with him an encyclopedic knowledge of its history, its characters, and its traditions. He could recall the great runs of decades past, the shifts in the industry, and the stories of the men and women who built it, always with a sparkle in his eye and a tale worth telling.
Gerald was also an excellent game fisherman, known for his skill, patience, and determination on the water. He fished alongside many of Durban’s greats, and his name became synonymous with the camaraderie and competitive spirit that defined the region’s angling scene. Yet beyond his achievements, Gerald was celebrated for his penchant for a good time. He was the kind of man who could turn a day’s fishing into a night of laughter, music, and storytelling, ensuring that every gathering was richer for his presence.
Those who knew Gerald will remember not only his mastery of the sea but also his warmth, humor, and generosity. He was a friend, a mentor, and a companion who lived fully and shared freely. His legacy is etched into the sardine industry he loved, the fishing community he uplifted, and the countless lives he touched with his knowledge and his joy for life.
Gerald Buckle’s passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his stories, his laughter, and his spirit will continue to ripple through the waves and the memories of all who had the privilege to know him.
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.
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
