Image related to website content

Responsible Angling ensures a Sustainable Future for both the Environment and the Communities that rely on these Resources

22 Nov 2023

The Western Cape is home to an array of freshwater habitats, from serene mountain streams to picturesque dams. These bodies of water host a variety of fish species, including indigenous species such as yellowfish, tilapia, and catfish. The region's rivers, such as the Breede, Berg, and Liesbeek, are renowned for providing excellent angling opportunities. The abundance of freshwater ecosystems makes the Western Cape a prime destination for both local and visiting anglers.

Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice looking to cast your first line, understanding the regulations, and acquiring the necessary permits is crucial for an enjoyable and sustainable angling experience. Before embarking on your freshwater angling adventure, it's essential to comprehend the significance of obtaining a permit. These permits are not just bureaucratic red tape; they play a pivotal role in conserving aquatic ecosystems, maintaining fish populations, and promoting sustainable fishing practices. By adhering to the regulations set forth in the permits, anglers contribute to the preservation of natural habitats and the well-being of fish species, ensuring that future generations will also enjoy the thrill of freshwater fishing.

Top freshwater fishing spots in the Western Cape include Theewaterskloof Dam, the Berg River, and Elandspad River. Around 56% of freshwater fish are threatened, indigenous fish like the Clanwilliam yellowfish, sawfin, and whitefish should be returned to the water. These fish are at threat of extinction as they’ve been displaced from much of their former ranges by alien fish such as the two black bass species, the carp and sharptooth catfish.

In South Africa, inland fisheries are governed by the National Freshwater (Inland) Wild Capture Fisheries policy, with additional provincial ordinances and environmental regulations, especially for recreational freshwater fishing. In the Western Cape, freshwater angling (dams, rivers, and lakes) is regulated by CapeNature in terms of Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974. You can learn all about fresh water angling here. You can apply for your freshwater angling licenses here at a cost of R45 per year. Be legally responsible by obtaining your fishing licence, using the correct fishing method, following quotas, fishing during permitted season, fishing in a designated area and report illegal fishing.

Image related to website content
Share:

Related News

New Conservancy to Protect Biodiversity in the Karoo image
16 Oct 2025
New Conservancy to Protect Biodiversity in the Karoo

A long-cherished dream has come true with the establishment of the 18 000 ha Karoo Gateway Conservancy in the Klaarstroom district. This initiative provides a strong framework for biodiversity conservation in the region through a voluntary agreement among landowners to manage their land in an environmentally sustainable way that promotes biodiversity conservation, eco-tourism, and sustainable agriculture.

Penguin Palooza Guest Invitation 2025 03 1
10 Oct 2025
Make space in your heart for penguins at Penguin Palooza 2025

African Penguins are now listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, with scientists warning they could vanish from the wild by 2035. CapeNature and SANCCOB are collaborating to protect the species at their annual Penguin Palooza event at Stony Point Nature Reserve.

Spotted Eagle Owl Scientific Name Bubo Africanus
9 Oct 2025
Man convicted and sentenced for attack on Protected Spotted Eagle-Owl thanks to joint efforts

CapeNature welcomes the successful conviction and sentencing of 38-year-old Mozambican national Gustigu Mthini, who was found guilty on four charges following a violent attack on a Protected Spotted Eagle-Owl along the Sea Point Promenade earlier this year.

Vrolijikheid Nature Reserve
2 Oct 2025
The Vrolijkheid Nursery Project is Growing Conservation Through Community

The nursery project at Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve has officially entered its early stages of becoming operational, marking an exciting step towards a collaborative conservation and community initiative. 

EPWP worker at Cape Nature
1 Oct 2025
Empowering Communities: How EPWP Transforms Lives Through Skills Development

A well-earned promotion to the permanent position of Maintenance Assistant at Goukamma Nature Reserve was granted to Mr. Graeme Highburg, an EPWP employee at Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve.

Bird Island Nature Reserve in Lamberts Bay
26 Sep 2025
Bird Island gets a fresh look with enhanced interpretive signage

Bird Island Nature Reserve has undergone a transformation just in time for World Tourism Day, with the unveiling of brand-new interpretive signage designed to elevate the visitor experience and public understanding of the Island’s unique biodiversity.