Like that old saying goes: Give a man a fish and he’ll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he’ll eat for the rest of his life. But show a man a great fishing spot, like Die Stroom fishing spot in Swellendam’s Bontebok Nature Reserve, and he’ll come back again, and again.

While you’re there you may even see some bontebok. Plus, with 200 species of birds available, birdwatchers are bound to be well entertained. There are also accommodation options and game drive opportunities, although, of course, you’re here for the fishing.

Die Stroom: The Fishing Spot

Die Stroom was upgraded in 2016. The upgrades included scale and tape measure facilities so that fishermen can weigh their fish. This is perfect for those who want to share their catch on social media… with the stats. It also allows fishermen to know whether their catch is the acceptable size to keep. Wooden boxes are also available for anglers to drop a record of their catches into for conservation purposes. 

Die Stroom is part of the Breede River and has some pretty impressive fish to catch. Included in this are various types of carp, and bass. Some common ones include Cape whitefish, flathead grey mullet, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and tilapia. These species can be taken if they are the right size. On the other hand, indigenous species like Cape kurper and ray-finned fish must be thrown back into the river after being noted.

Accordingly, you’ll need the correct bait, depending on which one of the above species you want to catch. Carp are suckers for bread, and dough balls, while bass prefers bait fish.

Die Stroom: The Picnic Spot

Situated close to the banks of the river, Die Stroom Picnic Spot offers everything you need for a great picnic. Braai spots, seating, and tables, as well as ablution facilities, are all available at these sites.

Access and Fishing Permit

The price of entry varies depending on nationality. South African adults pay R50 for a day’s visit while kids pay R25.

SADC nationals pay R75 for adults and R37 for Children, and international tourists pay R150 and R75. Valid Wild Cardholders can access the park using their cards.

To fish in the reserve anglers must have a permit. These can be purchased at the park reception.

Contacts: Bontebok National Park
Tel: 028 514 2735, 028 514 2646
Email: bontebok@sanparks.org
Website

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