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

Leopard
10 Jul 2025
Young leopard dies after being caught in gin traps near Heidelberg

CapeNature can confirm the death of a young leopard following a call to assist in a rescue operation on 2 July in the Heidelberg area, near the World Heritage Site of Boosmansbos.

Officials discovered a young 13 kg male leopard, estimated to be around six months old, ensnared in two gin traps set adjacent to each other. One front paw and one hind leg were caught. Despite the best efforts of the rescue team, the leopard did not survive.

Whats App Image 2025 04 25 at 19 14 07 2
9 Jul 2025
Darwin200 Young Leaders & CapeNature Launch Inspiring Documentaries

Three DARWIN200 young leaders worked hand in hand with CapeNature to produce awe-inspiring and heartwarming videos on the Cape vulture colony of Potberg, the bontebok at De Hoop Nature Reserve and the invasive carp at Groenvlei. Click read more to watch the videos.

White rhino
9 Jul 2025
Three Arrested for Illegal Rhino Horn Trade

On Wednesday, 2 July 2025, the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations (Hawks) assisted by SAPS K9 Unit, Overberg and Stock Theft and Endangered Species based in Swellendam, executed an undercover operation at Buffeljags River, N2 route outside of Swellendam.

Three suspects were arrested after being found in possession of the rhino horn and engaged in a transaction to sell the rhino horn during an undercover operation. CapeNature officials were contacted to assist in the further investigation of the case, which was subsequently registered at the Swellendam Police Station.

BOCMA Capacity building Rhett Smart
3 Jul 2025 by Rhett Smart
BOCMA & CapeNature Boost Water Sustainability

On 8 May 2025 a capacity building event was held at the Barn Owl Conference Venue in Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve provided by the Breede Olifants Catchment Management Agency (BOCMA) to CapeNature staff from Landscape South and Central. BOCMA are responsible for implementing the National Water Act (NWA) within the Breede and Gouritz catchments, which regulates water use. A similar event was held in Oudtshoorn with the Landscape East staff on 23 May 2025. Water is an essential natural resource that requires responsible management to ensure the sustainability of the resource both for human use and ecological function.

Marine Dynamics crowned winner of the ATTA Marine Impact Award Image 1
1 Jul 2025
Marine Dynamics Wins ATTA® Award

Marine Dynamics Shark and Whale Tours has been honoured with the ATTA® Marine Impact Award during the Experience Africa Travel Conference in London on 23 June 2025. The award recognises organisations making a tangible difference in protecting Africa’s marine and coastal environments while fostering long-term community benefits.

Conservation Review 2025 Group Image
27 Jun 2025
2025 Conservation Review Highlights Biodiversity

CapeNature showcased its significant achievements in conservation operations and exceptional biodiversity protection over the past year.

The central message throughout the event and central to the theme was an emphasis on the successful partnerships the Entity has cultivated with stakeholders. Many of these partners were also in attendance, showcasing delivery on collaborative projects. The Entity relies on the productive co-operation of many partners to successfully execute its mandate in the Western Cape.