Western Cape Saltwater Fishing Report: 23–25 May 2025

Winter Retreats – Fish Return in Numbers

Looking to get back on the water this weekend? You’re in luck. Winter has taken a backseat, and the fish are back. From deep-sea yellowfin to West Coast snoek and rock and surf kob, this weekend offers prime conditions for saltwater anglers across the Western Cape.

At Jacita Tackle & Outdoor, we’ve had anglers calling all week with early reports and solid catches. Now’s the time to grab your saltwater gear, stock up on lures, and take advantage of Payflex online at Jacita.co.za or pop into the store. We’ll get you sorted before the next boat launches.

Deep-Sea Action Heating Up

The weekend starts with a light southeaster today (Friday) with gusts up to seven knots. The sea may still feel bumpy after the week’s weather, but things start to calm by Saturday. Sunday looks ideal, with light north to south-westerly winds between two and four knots. It’s perfect for chasing tunny.

Boats fishing Dassengat, west of Robben Island, and the Ammo Dump off Cape Point are reporting success. Expect longfin and smaller yellowfin to stay active. One standout moment came during the Ratel Ladies comp, where anglers hooked several young yellowfin and even a 1.5m wahoo. Conditions around the Bellows and Anvil are also hot, with yellowtail schools feeding in close.

Snoek and Yellowtail Up the Coast

Commercial crews heading to Lambert’s Bay and Stilbaai have already proven snoek and yellowtail are biting. For anglers willing to tow up the West Coast, the effort will be worth it. Gear up with high-durability boat rods and metal jigs from Jacita to make the most of your session.

Rock & Surf Fishing – Cold Water, Hot Bites

Kob and steenbras are showing up in all the usual haunts. Die Plaat in Hermanus continues to produce solid specimens, with reports of galjoen and kolstert thrown in. The same mix is being caught at Macassar and Broken Road, and as far along as Onrus and Pearly Beach. One angler even pulled a 37cm galjoen at Onrus last weekend. That’s proof the big ones are still close in.

Tip: Look for that frothy white water near the rocks. That’s where the galjoen feed.

Estuary Action – Leeries and Cob on the Move

Estuaries are looking good too. The Klein River Lagoon in Hermanus, Uilenskraalmond, and Die Mond near Bredasdorp are all holding leervis, cob, and white stump. Bloodworm, redbait, or a good mixed grill should do the trick. Live bait will increase your odds—just don’t forget your throw net and valid bait licenses.

Important note: Avoid collecting bait from Ramsar wetlands like Die Dam. Conservation officers are active and strict. Gate hours are 07:30–16:00 weekdays and until 17:00 on weekends. No overnight fishing allowed.

Freshwater Hotspots Still Active

Sandvlei remains one of the best options for freshwater anglers chasing leervis. Bring a canoe or kayak and try trolling a streamer fly or popper near Marina de Gama. Carp fans can try the wastewater dams near Strandfontein. Just don’t fish Zeekoevlei or Rondevlei—they’re off-limits.

Safety Reminder

Avoid fishing alone at Broken Road, Strandfontein or Macassar in the evenings. Fish smart and stay safe.

Ready to Catch?

Get your rods, reels, and tackle now from Jacita.co.za. Use Payflex for easy payments or visit us in-store for expert advice. We know the local waters and we’re here to help.

Tight lines from all of us at Jacita. See you on the water.
Report by Chris Bateman, with input from Richard Bewick and Sean Mills.