Picture this: The air is fresh and the waters are teeming with marine life. You have a fishing rod in your hand and the only worry is whether there’s still bait on your line. Does this sound like the fishing retreat you need? Well, look no further! LekkeSlaap.co.za has compiled a list of our favourite fishing retreats. Be it fly fishing, freshwater fishing or angling, there’s a holiday in every province for you, your family or your favourite fisherman friends. Scroll down, cast your line and get ready for the holiday you deserve!
Northern Cape
Kalahari Water Holiday Farm, Keimoes
Set along the mighty Orange River and a mere 10-minute drive from central Keimoes, Kalahari Water Holiday Farm is an island paradise offering self-catering, caravan, or camping accommodation. The caravan and camping sites have access to electricity and communal bathrooms. You can even bring your pets!
Dundi Lodge, Augrabies
Who says fishing trips can’t be luxurious? Dundi Lodge is in close proximity to the renowned Augrabies Falls and offers stylish accommodation along the Orange River, surrounded by lush table grape vineyards. The lodge’s sister operation, Kalahari Outventures, offers a range of river activities including fly fishing. From here your next stop is the Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park!
Plato Lodge, Augrabies
This is what fly fishing dreams are made of! Plato Lodge offers luxurious accommodation in Augrabies, a mere 40 kilometres from the Augrabies National Park. The beautiful Namaqualand flowers offer great opportunities for photographers, while the lodge is the perfect destination for fly fishing on the Orange River. Boats can be hired at the lodge and bait and rods are also available for normal fishing.
Orange River Rafting Lodge, Vioolsdrift
This lodge sits proudly on the banks of the Orange River and offers fully-equipped chalets or caravan and camping sites. These sites have covered kitchens, a sink with running water and access to neat ablution blocks with hot water. The Orange River offers activities for everyone and young and old can fish, river raft or simply cool off. Feel free to also bring your pets along!
SANParks Richtersberg Campsite, Richtersveld Transfrontier Park
If you want the Orange River flowing past your tent, then the SANParks Richtersberg Campsite is the spot for you. The camp looks out over the Tatasberg Range and offers six rustic campsites. These sites have access to communal ablutions with cold water. The spot is perfect for river rafting and fly fishing.
SANParks Augrabies Rest Camp, Augrabies
Get reading for some jaw dropping scenes at the SANParks Augrabies Rest Camp. This is where the Orange River is at its most impressive as it cascades down 56 metres in a thunderous roar. This area also offers 50 000 hectares of unique riverine ecosystems to explore, making it the perfect fishing spot. Accommodation is offered in air-conditioned chalets which are fully equipped for self-catering. The chalets and the camp sites are within walking distance of the falls.
Khamkirri, Augrabies
If it’s time for a holiday then it’s time to visit Khamkirri. Accommodation is available in 35 units, offering something for everyone! Besides fly fishing and bait fishing, guests can also enjoy bird watching, cycling, guided walks and game drives. The kids and your pets can also enjoy swimming in the river.
Free State
Savannah Game and River Retreat, Parys
Savannah Game and River Retreat is a nature resort set on 1 200 hectares of bushveld and offers accommodation in tented chalets that overlook the bushveld, lodge rooms or rondavels. Your relaxing bushveld stay is complemented by more than 25 different wildlife species and plenty of fishing opportunities.
De Lusthof Guest Farm, Clarens
Enjoy fishing for bass and trout at De Lusthof Guest Farm, in the hills of a spectacular Eastern Free State valley. The cottage sleeps six and is surrounded by beautiful mountains and bright stars at night. Besides fishing, you can also hike to the world-famous fertility cave, Motouleng.
North West
Schoemanshof, Potchefstroom
It’s been said that the Vaal River is an ideal spot for fly-fishing enthusiasts, and that’s exactly why Schoemanshof is only a few steps away from it. It’s a great choice for group getaways and accommodation is offered in self-catering units and a bush camp. Fly fishing is offered on a catch-and-release basis only and extra nearby activities include bait fishing, hiking trails, horse riding and game drives.
Kareekloof Game Farm, Derby
Whether you’re visiting for the day or a week, you can enjoy catch-and-release fishing for bass and tilapia in the deep dam at Kareekloof Game Farm. Have your pick of nine self-catering units and come enjoy a proper farm stay with a full day of activities. Besides fishing, your friends and family can also spot interesting birdlife, go on a guided walk or game drive, play tennis or swim.
Boe-Boe’s Nest, Koster
Located between Swartruggens and Koster, Boe-Boe’s Nest borders the Elands River and offers excellent fishing opportunities for carp, barber, bass, and tilapia. If camping isn’t your thing, you can stay in a self-catering chalet with basic amenities to ensure a stress-free getaway. Boe-Boe’s Nest is also a bird watcher’s paradise and has some game like impala, blesbuck, kudu and nyala wandering around the property.
Bobbejaan Kloof Bass & Quad Lodge, Hartbeesfontein
Bobbejaan Kloof Bass & Quad Lodge is a family-weekend venue with a well-stocked dam of ten different fish species, of which bass and giant carp are the most common. There are five quaint, wooden chalets which can accommodate up to four guests each. When you’re not fishing, you can spend some quality time with friends and family next to the braai or bonfire, or explore the hiking and quad-biking trails.
Highlander Trout Lodge, Skeerpoort
This working farm is situated in the beautiful Hartebeeshoek Valley and offers excellent fishing opportunities for enthusiasts of all skill levels. The Highlander Trout Lodge has eight bodies of still water of various sizes and approximately one kilometre of riverfront. Here you can expect excellent yet challenging fly-fishing opportunities, as well as dams stocked with rainbow trout and yellowfish. Accommodation is offered in four cottages with space for four to seven guests and each cottage has a view of the garden, mountains, green pastures or trout dams.
Gauteng
Old Willow No.7 Houseboat Charters, Vanderbijlpark
Why leave the waters at all? Fish the Vaal River as long as you like on the Old Willow No.7 Houseboat Charters. Located on the Korhaan River Estate in Sasolburg, guests can stay in nine architect-designed boats and navigate the Vaal Barrage with a fishing rod in hand. The houseboats can accommodate up to five people and are kitted out with a galley in which to prepare food, a small bathroom and a charcoal braai facility.
Limpopo
Cheerio Trout Fishing Holiday Resort, Haenertsburg
Cheerio Trout Fishing Holiday Resort offers trout fishing in well-stocked dams on the property. Guests can also fish at The Letaba Dams which is 20 minutes away. River fishing can also be arranged with the local angling association. The self-catering chalets can accommodate two, four or six guests and are nestled among beautiful trees and flowers, providing a tranquil environment in which to fish and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
Rhenosterpoort, Rankins Pass
Set on the edge of a small dam and catering for only four people, Rhenosterpoort is a true little gem in the Waterberg. After a day of fishing, you can watch the wildlife while relaxing around the fire. As there is no cellphone reception in the area, you can experience a complete break from everyday life. Other activities to look forward to are bird watching, game drives and a possible sighting of the Big 5.
Bramasole, Magoebaskloof
Bramasole is hidden at the edge of a forest in Magoebaskloof and offers a tranquil lakeside getaway. Trout fishing is offered on site and when the mist crawls in, this area offers a mystical fishing opportunity like none other. Bramasole’s guest rooms are all uniquely designed and accommodate two guests in each. Some of the rooms are equipped for self-catering, but breakfast is provided for all guests.
Pavetta Country House, Magoebaskloof
Come visit this tranquil farm in Magoebaskloof and stay in two lovely self-catering houses, each with a scenic view of pine and indigenous forests, and the Haenertsburg Trout Associations’s trophy dam. Fishing is allowed on a catch-and-release basis and with barbless flies only. One house can accommodate eight adults and two children, while the other can accommodate ten guests. Those not interested in fishing can enjoy the lovely braai facilities and picnic spots that are available, or relax around the fireplace.
Eastern Cape
Gulu Private Resort, East London
Gulu Private Resort is well known for its fishing experiences from the banks of the Gulu River and from Gulu Beach. Accommodation is offered in eight en-suite units and one sharing unit and promises home-cooked meals and a clean, cosy stay. For members of the family or group who don’t fish, there are various other activities available such as bird watching, canoeing and hiking.
Trennerys Hotel, Wild Coast
Trennerys Hotel is in the perfect position to enjoy rock and surf fishing, as well as deep-sea fishing on the rugged Wild Coast. Fishing tackle is available at the hotel. Here you can stay in a Family Unit, a Double Room or a Twin Room, and enjoy amenities such as sundowners and snacks at the enchanting Anchor Bar, snooker, bowls, tennis court, volleyball, a jungle gym, and swings and a trampoline for the children. So, do not stress! There’s loads to keep everyone busy while dad mans the fishing rod.
Kariega Game Reserve – River Lodge, Kenton-on-Sea
Perched on the edge of the Bushman’s River, Kariega Game Reserve – River Lodge offers excellent river fishing and canoeing. This unique lodge, which connects a Big 5 game reserve to the ocean, offers daily boat cruises that ferries guests through Kenton-on-Sea to local beaches. There is enough space for 20 guests in ten units and other activities in the area include safari drives and guided walks.
Angler & Antelope Guesthouse, Somerset East
The Boschberg Mountain in Somerset East gets an unusual amount of rain for this region of the Karoo. This makes Angler & Antelope Guesthouse an exceptionally good fishing spot for trout, as well as fly-fishing enthusiasts. The guest house offers luxurious rooms and delicious home-cooked meals. Don’t forget to stop by the fly-fishing shop that is situated in an old confessional and pick the resident REFFIS-accredited fly-fishing guide, Alan Hobson’s, brain for expert local advice.
Gairtney Guest Farm, Lady Grey
Enjoy fly fishing for trout at Gairtney Guest Farm, an easily accessible property in a tranquil mountain setting. The property is situated on the Joubert’s Pass and offers ideal self-catering accommodation for families or small groups. The Eastern Cape Highlands is ripe with activities and guests can enjoy river rafting, hiking trails, horse riding or visiting the nearby Cape Vulture breeding colony.
Cape St Francis Resort, St Francis Bay
Cape St Francis Resort is a great destination for rock and surf fishing. Fishing licences are available at the local post office in St Francis Bay. The resort offers a choice of luxury beach villas or cottages with sea- and garden-facing rooms. With direct access to the beach and various activities such as hiking, surfing, golfing, and whale and dolphin excursions, this spot is a paradise for both fishermen and their families.
Hole in the Wall Resort, Coffee Bay
A trip to the majestic Wild Coast might only come once in a lifetime, so make sure you use the opportunity to fish in the natural bay that forms around Hole in the Wall. This resort offers accommodation in spacious chalets and apartments that are perched on a cliff top overlooking the ocean. Coffee Bay also offers various other activities such as bird watching, hiking and exploring the property’s namesake, the impressive Hole in the Wall.
KwaZulu-Natal
Berghaven Cottages, Champagne Valley
Berghaven Cottages offers a farm-style stay where you can fish for bass in three cascading dams. Guests have a choice of 11 self-catering cottages which can accommodate two to six guests. There’s an activity to fit every age and skill level and besides fishing, you can look forward to exploring the forest trails, playing on the swings and trampolines, or relaxing in the swimming pool. Enjoy the remoteness of the Drakensberg with plenty of adventure and creature comforts on your doorstep.
The Old Hatchery, Underberg
The Old Hatchery is located just 10 kilometres from Underberg in the Southern Drakensberg, near waters that offer exciting trout-fishing opportunities. There are 15 comfortable en-suite rooms, three self-catering units and three fishing cabins that are ideal for couples. The scenic Sani Pass can be explored with 4×4 trips and the area also offers horse-riding trails, mountain-biking trails and golf courses.
Elephant Rock Private Safari Lodge, Ladysmith
Overlooking a waterhole on the Nambiti Game Reserve, Elephant Rock Private Safari Lodge offers a safari getaway for up to 10 people. Seasonal fly fishing is available and the reserve is also home to more than 250 bird species and diverse wildlife. Guests can expect a luxurious stay in well-appointed suites, each spaced for total privacy with a private deck, outdoor shower, and terrific views over the waterhole and the indigenous bushveld.
Tandweni Villa, Pongola Biosphere Reserve
Sitting proudly on the banks of the Jozini Dam, Tandweni Villa offers the ultimate tiger-fishing, Big 4 game-viewing and luxury bush experience. The villa can accommodate 10 guests and boasts five modern bedrooms, a boma for outdoor fires, a private gym and a plunge pool. The villa’s biggest selling point is the boat which comes equipped with fishing rods, tackle for tiger fishing and all the necessities for a relaxing river cruise.
Nkonkoni Fishing Camp, Mkuze
Calling all aspiring tiger-fishing champions! Stop by Nkonkoni Fishing Camp and prepare for the annual Tiger Fish Bonanza which is held in September. The camp is situated close to the southern shores of the Pongolapoort Jozini Dam, the only dam in South Africa which is home to the fighting tiger fish. Nkonkonzi supports fishing on a catch-and-release basis and guests can use the launch site to ready their boats for a big day of fishing.
Ndumu River Lodge, Nduno
Ndumu River Lodge’s unique position allows guests to have a Big 5 game viewing experience while whale and dolphin watching is a mere hour’s drive away. The lodge is set in a diverse ecosystem that stretches from the Lebombo Mountains next to Swaziland all the way to the Laquati Sand Forests on the Mozambique border. To explore and fish this wonderful area, guests are offered accommodation in air-conditioned en-suite rooms, self-catering units and camp sites.
Star Dam Estate, Impendle
Bring your fishing rod and boat and check in at Star Dam Estate. This property is tucked away in a quiet corner of the Dargle Valley in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands and offers a choice of four luxuriously appointed self-catering lodges. Besides the excellent horse-riding territory, Star Dam Estate also offers fly-fishing opportunities. There are three fishing boats with sneaker motors available for hire or you can bring your own canoe.
Luiperdkloof Trout Lodge, Utrecht
Luiperdkloof offers two beautifully placed chalets, each overlooking one of the property’s trout dams. The property is also used as a working cattle farm and is tucked away between the scenic Balele Mountains between Wakkerstroom, Utrecht and Vryheid. The two trout dams are excellent for fly fishing, but guests can also relax in a little paddle boat while floating in the peaceful waters. During the warmer summer months, guests can also cool off in a sparkling mountain stream after hiking the beautiful Balele Valley.
Mpumalanga
Gunyatoo Trout Farm and Lodge, Sabie
Gunyatoo Trout Farm and Lodge is a working trout farm with a processing area, hatchery, nursery, raceways, and two stocked dams for the fly-fishing enthusiast. Limited-stream fishing is available for more experienced fishermen and private fly-fishing lessons and group clinics can also be arranged on site. There’s space for both experienced and amateur fishermen in four guest rooms and four separate self-catering units. Here you can end your days by enjoying a drink at the bar, playing pool, throwing darts or unwinding in the swimming pool and sauna.
Komati River Chalets, Komatipoort
Komati River Chalets lies at the confluence of the Komati and Crocodile Rivers, in the Southern Kruger Park region of Mpumalanga’s Wild Frontier. The chalets are no more than 50 metres from the water’s edge, giving guests a front-row seat to the abundance of wildlife. There are double or twin chalets and family cottages which all guarantee a priceless country retreat. Besides guided Kruger National Park safaris, you can also look forward to fishing safaris on motorised boats. These chalets are the ideal destination for adventurous travellers and wildlife enthusiasts!
Mountain Creek Lodge, Hazyview
Enjoy bass fishing in the mountains of the Sabie River Valley at Mountain Creek Lodge.The luxurious, self-catering lodge can accommodate individuals or groups of up to 33 people. Bring your entire family or all of your fisherman friends and come enjoy the swimming pool, bird watching, nature walks or simply explore the wonders of the Panorama Route.
Hezekiah Game Farm, Mbombela
Hezekiah Game Farm is in the scenic Alkmaar Region, 15 kilometres from Mbombela, and offers freshwater fishing on a catch-and-release basis at their dam. There is also a paddle boat for hire, which makes for a unique game-viewing and fishing experience. There are three units available, all with fantastic views of the surrounding mountainous countryside.
Stonecutters Lodge, between Dullstroom and Lydenburg
Stonecutters Nature Lodge is situated between Dullstroom and Lydenburg, in the heart of Mpumalanga’s fly-fishing region. The scenic property has two well-stocked trout-fishing dams and 3 kilometres of free-flowing river meander. Choose between self-catering family houses or spacious executive suites for couples.
Elandskloof Forel Plaas, Dullstroom
Fly-fishing enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice when visiting Elandskloof Forel Plaas. The property boasts 11 trout dams! Accommodation is offered in two main houses, seven rondavels, six cottages and two flatlets. After a long day of successful fishing, you can unwind in the heated, indoor swimming pool or Jacuzzi.
Rivendell Trout Estate, Lydenburg
The Rivendell Cottages are set on the banks of the Spekboom River, which is regularly stocked with rainbow trout. Rivendell Trout Estate falls within the Mount Anderson Water Catchment Reserve and animals are often grazing peacefully while visitors fly fish for trout.
Western Cape
Riverhouse-Velddrif, Velddrif
Riverhouse-Velddrif lies on the banks of the Berg River next to the Laaiplek slipway where locals launch their fishing boats for the day’s catch. There is enough space for eight guests with the house comprising three bedrooms, a verandah and an outside braai. Port Owen is also a terrific holiday destination with activities such as bird watching, swimming and cycling.
Mudlark River Front Lodge, Infanta
Mudlark River Front Lodge lies on the edge of the Breede River, a fishing hot-spot where kob, spotted grunter, and garrick are regularly caught. Accommodation is offered in five en-suite rooms, all with private decks overlooking the river. The river can be explored with the dinghies and canoes offered by Mudlark, and you can also look forward to easy walks on the river bank with plenty of bird life to be seen. If kitesurfing is your activity of choice, remember to pack your gear!
Amicus, Nature’s Valley
Have your pick of surf, rock, and lagoon fishing at Amicus. From here you can also explore Nature’s Valley and the famous Cape Garden Route. Stay in a three-bedroom house or a two-bedroom cottage a mere 300 metres from the beach and take a stroll down to the lagoon to experience some magnificent sunsets. The indigenous forest, fynbos and mountains complete this stunning picture.
Colnera, Herold’s Bay
Enjoy bass fishing at Colnera, self-catering accommodation on the Garden Route with spectacular views of the Outeniqua Mountains and Indian Ocean. There are five one-bedroom chalets to choose from and each one is equipped for maximum comfort for two guests. The dam on the property is stocked with bass, but is also perfect for rowing and swimming. Other activities to look forward to include mountain biking, picnicking and bird watching.
Matjiesvlei Guest Farm, Calitzdorp
Matjiesvlei Guest Farm is an angler’s paradise in the Klein Karoo. Guests can enjoy the comfort of six quaint, self-catering cottages nestled in a valley at the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains, between Calitzdorp and Ladismith. You’ll find a wide variety of fish species including yellowfish, black bass, eel, and carp. The waterholes are also fantastic for swimming and rowing. Don’t miss out on travelling to the top of Bôjaankop from where you can enjoy stunning views of the Klein Karoo.
River House, Plettenberg Bay
Treat yourself to a peaceful getaway on the banks of the Keurbooms River. The River House is big enough to accommodate 10 guests and comes fully-equipped with everything you need for a comfortable holiday. The Keurboomsriver is home to a rich variety of bird life and you can look out for these colourful winged creatures with a rod and a cool drink in hand. After a long day it’s time to light the fire and listen to the river’s night sounds.
Blue Whale Resort, George
Set on a scenic 10-hectare private nature reserve, the Blue Whale Resort offers once-in-a-lifetime seafront accommodation. The resort is surrounded by indigenous fynbos and dolphins can be spotted year-round from the balconies of the property’s self-catering chalets. These chalets are spaced far apart to ensure privacy and can accommodate four guests. Best of all? A wooden staircase of about 200 steps leads you down to a rocky beach that is known as one of the best fishing spots in the area.
Whether it’s angling the Atlantic, fly fishing for trout or finding a first-prize freshwater catch, South Africa has something to suit any fisherman’s preference, skill level and accommodation requirements. Keep an eye out, because like any good fisherman’s tale, this list still has plenty of room to grow.
Main photo: Tandweni Villa on LekkeSlaap.co.za.
