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SKI-BOAT Magazine, ISSN 0258-7297, is published six times a year by Angler Publications & Promotions cc, Reg. No. CK 88/05863/23, and is distributed by On the Dot, as well as directly by the publishers to retail stores throughout South Africa.
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Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers, the managing editor, editor, editorial staff or the South African Deep Sea Angling Association.
Erwin Bursik Publisher
WOMENONTHEWATER
WOMEN anglers have come a long way in South Africa when it comes to their participation in offshore angling, as is clearly evident in the report on this year’s Queens of the Ocean competition (see page 30)!
It’s a real joy to see this shift. In the 1960s and 1970s, very few women were involved in angling, especially ski-boat fishing, although this was primarily due to the size of the boats at the time and the preconceived idea that ski-boat fishing was a man’s sport.
Thinking back to those years, I can only recall a few women who took to sea off the Durban Ski-Boat Club. That at least was a protected launch site and the fishing grounds were relatively close at hand.
Moving into the 1980s, overall boat sizes increased and gunnel heights were raised, offering more protection from being thrown overboard and from wind and spray. This encouraged an increasing number of women to venture forth into what had been a man’s world. I particularly remember that Sylvia Case from Umhlanga Rocks regularly joined her husband John when he launched from DSBC.
After much debate, SASBAA, the forerunner of SADSAA, acknowledged the women’s participation, and in the 1970s they authorised a formally recognised Ladies Interprovincial, for which full Ladies Provincial colours were awarded.
While this competition was very successful and ran for a couple of years, the women – who had quickly proved themselves and produced very meaningful catches under the strict interprovincial fishing format – felt that segregating themselves dulled their achievements. They asked that the ladies interprovincial be shelved and that women be allowed to fish in the formal interprovincials held nationally under the auspices of the national angling body. They were fighting for the right to earn full provincial colours.
As a national selector at the time, I got to go to sea during the association’s national competitions and see for myself the women’s individual ability. This stretched far beyond merely catching fish off their husbands’ boats and perhaps being fed strikes from tackle set by their dear husbands. In the competitions they did all the preparatory work, tackled up, took the strikes and fought the fish totally on their own under the beady eyes of a neutral skipper and crew and, often a national selector.
This competitive arrangement was very successful and a number of women from all over South Africa proved their competency, climbing the ranks in the sport from club competitions to claim Provincial and National (i.e. Protea) colours.
This move was the encouragement that led many more women and girls in the U16, U19 and open provincial competitions to challenge the men in their clubs and provinces, proving that skill is more important than mere brawn.
The 2025 Queens of the Ocean competition, organised and run largely by women, and based at St Lucia, has been making waves for all the right reasons. Not only did the organisers once again stage an incredible event, but the women also weighed in an impressive variety of gamefish of noteworthy sizes.
There’s no doubt that women are an integral part of the offshore fishing scene in South Africa, and have proved the old adage of “Anything they can do we can do better!”
Till the next tide.
Erwin Bursik
BACKTOBASICS
By Charles Hayter
THE Santa Maria Peninsula in southern Moçambique is steadily growing in popularity.In the previous issue of SKI-BOAT we carried an article focusing on fishing the northern section of this coast from Santa Maria home reef up to the Inhaca reefs,and in this issue we cover the section of coast from Santa Maria down to Milibangalala.
This area is part of the Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve,so anglers must be aware of the regulations pertaining to this.To start with,bottomfishing and vertical jigging are banned. Make sure you go to the Maritimo police office (either in Maputo or Santa Maria) to obtain a fishing licence and a map showing where you can and can’t fish.You will be fishing inside a marine reserve,so if you’re caught doing something illegal,you will be in trouble.
REEF SYSTEMS
This stretch of coast is characterised by a section of reef ledge which basically runs parallel to the coast at a depth of 15–25m.Then there is a more prominent coral reef which runs along the 50m contour.In places,pinnacles rise up from the deep to as little as 13m.If you take a look on your charts,you’ll notice this mostly tends to happen off the prominent points on the shore.
On the deeper 35–50m line,you
Part 22:Santa Maria Peninsula,Moçambique
Alistair Swartz caught this GT on a top-water lure while targeting ’cuda.
COORDINATESOFFISHINGSPOTS
A: Santa South S26 07.308 E033
B:Mucombo Pinnacles S26 16.209 E032
C:Reef 23 S26 07.916 E032 58.840
D:Mucombo Shallow S26 14.252 E032
E:Mucombo Pinnacles
Kyle Bennet caught this beaut of a wahoo off Mucombo.
have some pinnacles just south of Santa Maria main reef,then again off Mucombo you get some pinnacles. Further south towards Milibangalala,you reach the northern pinnacle of the Jao/Joao Reef system just off Chemucane,and then you’ll find the main southern pinnacles of Jao.
Jao Reef is a pristine coral reef,and you will find shoals of fusiliers,scads, garfish and other species on top of these pinnacles which come right up to about 10m deep.The main pinnacles which rise out of the depths,and their associated steep walls and drop-offs,
tend to be where the bait fish come to feed on the small plankton and fry that sustain them.Wherever you find the bait is generally a good place to start fishing and looking for the pelagic fish which hunt here.
The shallower ledges of reef tend to be found around the 15–25m contour, and basically runall along this section of coastline.At certain times they tend to sand up,and then they’re not as productive as usual.
The most prominent shallow areas to fish are in front of Hell’s Gate,then just south of Ponta Abril at an area we
call “Reef 23”,then on the scattered reef approaching Mucombo Point.Off Chemucane you again get shallow reef, and there’s also a very prominent reef structure off Milibangalala,about 18m deep.
LAUNCH
Be very respectful of launching through Hell’s Gate,especially when you have an outgoing spring tide against a northeasterly wind.It can get very,very ugly,and many skippers have had bad experiences in this treacherous piece of water, with some paying the ultimate price.
Garth Lancefield landed this croc ’cuda on a live bonito while fishing off The Rumbler.
Warren Bennet caught this prodigal son in shallow water at Reef 23.
Speak to some locals and do extra research about the expected conditions at the time you’ll be visiting,and take the local skippers’advice on the launch. If there is any doubt,wait for the tide to change,as the water usually flattens out reasonably well with an incoming tide.
FISHING STRATEGY
The pinnacles and deeper reef structures tend to hold bait in the form of eastern little tuna and frigate tuna (bonnies).These bonnies are key in the food chain for the pelagic fish which we focus on catching.In shallow sections off Hell’s Gate entrance,Mucombo Point,and other patches of reef,you will also find baitfish like mozzies,red-eye and mackerel from time to time.
The tide and current definitely affect when the pelagic fish will start to feed, so you’ll need to put in some effort and watch your sounder and the surface to see what is happening when and where.
If you mark some bait deeper down on a pinnacle,make a mental note of it and return at the change of the tide
when this bait may have been forced up by the pelagic fish beginning to feed. These reef areas with pinnacles generally fish well on a pushing tide with the prevailing north to south current.
When the tide turns and begins draining,it’s generally a good idea to start focusing your attention on the areas on the land side of the reef systems.Ideally,you need to find some ledges and structure which can create a upwelling.These areas where a upwelling forms will start to hold bait, and then the pelagic fish will move in to hunt around there.
When the current starts to run from south to north,this can be a finicky area to fish.You then need to search for upwellings and bait on the southern sides of the reef structures.
Our plan is generally to try and catch some bonnies to use as livebait.If they don’t survive,we swim them dead around these pinnacles and reef structures.We also do a lot of old school ’cuda-style fishing by drifting or slow trolling with normal ’cuda-style rigs with live/dead baits.We make sure to
cover the whole water column by downrigging some of our baits.
When we are drifting or slow trolling,we also always have two rods working the top of the water column with a combination of poppers and stickbaits.
When things go quiet or we are moving from place to place,it’s a good time to carry on fishing,and we then put out a spread that gives us a good chance at catching something.
Generally that will be a spread consisting of two or three Speedpro lures or Nomad deep divers,with two Ilandertype lures with either a stripbait or a halfbeak inside,and then we always have a daisy chain out to try and snag a bonnie.
You often get a surprise in the middle of the “bush”between spots when you least expect it,with one of these lures screaming off.
On the deeper reefs,you are mainly going to be looking to target wahoo,yellowfin tuna,sailfish,marlin,’cuda, greater barracuda and GT’s.On the shallower reefs ’cuda,prodigal son and vari-
Smiles all round for Charles Hayter (left) with a beautiful dorado caught off the Santa Maria peninsula, and Peter Adams (above) who caught a sailfish on a bucktail, off Reel Tite.
ous kingfish species make up the majority of what’s targeted.
If you are not having luck with swimming a bonnie or other live bait,then it’s a good time to maybe pull some “plastic”around the pinnacles.Often a slight change in tactics results in a bite. It is not a hard and fast rule that a bonnie will always get a bite;very often you find the fish get triggered by a reaction bite created by a lure.
When we fish shallower,we tend to mostly target ’cuda,so our techniques focus mostly on slow trolling dead and livebaits while still casting poppers,stickbaits and dropshot/bucktail which are also very effective.Here we have found that the last bit of the pushing tide seems to be most productive as that’s when the fish move into the shallower waters to feed.
TACKLE
As the water is mostly very clean and visibility is good,we tend to fish fairly light.When we’re fishing with bonnies,it’s generally on 30–50lb outfits with 60/80lb leaders and No.5/6 lead wires with heavier between the hooks.We usually use good quality size 2 treble hooks.
There’s no shortage of variety in Santa Maria’s waters, including yellow-edged
target the brute GTs on these reef systems,we fish heavy and use 80/100lb braid with heavy 100/120lb leaders.
In this area black marlin often pick up our live bonnies,and it’s nice to then have a 50lb setup for this with the assurance that you have quality tackle.
When we’re targeting’cuda with dead- and livebaits,we mostly use 20/30lb setups with 40/50lb leaders and we go down to No.3/4 wire.
When it comes to popping setups to
Before you target the gamefish, though,you need to stock up on bait. To catch bonnies,you need to outsmart them,and they can be very finicky.This calls for 10–20lb fluorocarbon leaders and small bait presentations.
Catch up on previous articles in SKIBOAT magazine written by the likes of Mark de la Hey and Justin Paynter on various bonnie rigs and ’cuda rigs as well as general techniques for targeting
wahoo and ’cuda to get a refresher course on techniques and traces.
CONSERVATION AND ETHICS
As you fish this amazing stretch of ocean,you’ll notice that the further south you go on this section of coastline you will begin to catch a lot of fish which are usually an indication of an exceptionally healthy reef system that is not over fished.
In this line,you will get a lot of different jobfish,Bohar snapper,swallowtail rockcods,and the big old bucketmouth himself, Mr Potato Bass.Please treat these fish with the respect they deserve.These fish are super aggressive and it’s very evident that wherever there’s a lot of fishing pressure,they are the first to be missing in action.
It’s very much a gentleman’s agreement that we release all billfish,amberjacks,queenfish,GTs and other kingfish species caught in this area,so please adhere to that even if you’re just visiting.
As I said before,this area forms part of a marine reserve,so it is very important that we manage these resources carefully and do our small part to ensure they remain healthy.The local residents are very reliant on tourism for their livelihoods,and the more sustainable it is for them,the better it is for everyone.
If you don’t have your own boat and find yourself visiting Santa Maria,there are a few good charter boats to make use of,and some very knowledgeable guides who operate in the area.
lyretail, jobfish and amberjack.
ByMark Wilson
LATE September 2025 ushered in the 29th Tigerfish Bonanza on Jozini Dam.Sodwana Angling Club hosts this annual event and have grown it into the largest freshwater fishing competition in Southern Africa.
This is a huge testament to the effort and dedication its committee have put in and which they will no doubt continue,moving forward.Very reliable sources tell me that great plans
2025 Tigerfish Bonanza
are in the wings to celebrate 30 years come the next Bonanza.
For the uninitiated,the main quarry is the toothy,ferocious tigerfish.The length of the fish is the most important consideration,and each boat is given a measuring mat to determine the official length which is then recorded on an app known as “Keepnet”.Only fish measuring 400mm and longer are elegible to win prizes.
This year’s sought after prize for the longest tigerfish recorded was a
Waveglider 520 on a trailer,powered by a 100hp Yamaha outboard motor. Altogether the prize was valued at R400000.This fantastic incentive to anglers was made possible due to a collaboration between Yamaha Marine and D7 Boating Unique Boats.
Teams were also motivated to chase an all-expenses-paid trip sponsored by Cahora Bassa Safaris for the longest combined length of four tigerfish over the 400mm threshold.
All sorts of methods are employed
Neil Pentolfe shows off his 670mm beauty caught on Day Two of the 2025 Tigerfish Bonanza.
to catch this elusive quarry.One of the most popular is bait fishing which includes the use of chicken livers or hearts,or sardines.Many anglers choose to instead set out live baits in the form of tilapia/bream either on the drift or suspended under a float.Others cast out spinners or rapalas,while some even try flyfishing with bulked-up flyfishing tackle.
I have been attending this Bonanza for over 20 years now,and there are a few things that keep drawing me back
Dolf van Wyk caught this magnificent tiger just after the competition, proving that the dam has some top-class fish.
Photo: Pieter Vivier
year after year.From the outset,I must say this at least partly has do with the outstanding work put in by the Sodwana Angling Club.
First,there’s the location.The launch site is situated inside the Pongola Game Reserve which surrounds Jozini Dam. Before and after launching there is a good chance that you will spot wildlife up close.This experience is magnified a thousand fold when you see all the wildlife on the banks of the dam while fishing.
Second,there’s the “gees”(camaraderie).The spirit among the participating anglers is second to none.
Third,there’s the whole well-organised setup.Each year the campsite around the main hall is packed,and it’s almost like a small town materialises out of nowhere for the duration of the Bonanza.The ablutions are always wellkept and clean,and food and beverages are available to purchase should you choose not to braai after a long day on the water.
Team Keepnet were thrilled with their prize of a trip to Cahora
Meyer received a Lowrance Eagle Eye
and other
All the sponsors of the 2025
Fishing is not just a great leveller of all those participating,but also a great common denominator to pull a variety of people together in an environment where we can recharge our batteries before returning the rat race.Suffice it
to say that the big screen showing the Springboks handing out a hiding to Argentina didn’t hurt to bring the crowd together either.
Onto the fishing! This year 923 scoring fish were landed and safely released
by the 833 participating anglers.The average length of the fish that took the top 15 places stood at an impressive 661mm.These statistics prove that the population of the fishery is strong and the fish are plentiful,and definitely
Hansie Duvenhage (front) from D7 Boating Unique Boats hands over the main prize to Jayden Blesovsky and his teammates.
Sarel
9
prizes from John Minnie of Lowrance (left).
Bassa compliments of Cahora Bassa Safaris.
Tigerfish Bonanza.
bodes well for future Bonanzas.
With the highly likely possibility of that fish measuring equal lengths would be contending for top prizes,rules stated that,in this event,the fish caught first would place higher than those that followed.
Daniel du Plessis set the benchmark on the first day of fishing with a beautiful tigerfish measuring 670mm.Those chasing knew that this would be a difficult fish to eclipse,but the gauntlet had been laid down,and they would definitely try their best to overtake Daniel.
OnDay Two Sarel Meyer was thrilled when he landed a fish measuring 675mm,but Jayden Blesovsky soon eclipsed that with a 680mm tiger,setting a new target for the anglers to chase on the final day of fishing.It seemed no-one was up to that task,and Jayden ended Day Three top of the leaderboard.Well done,Jayden,what a fantastic achievement! (Turn the page to read about this year’s event from the winner’s perspective.)
Before I list the top placings in both the individual and team categories,I would once again like to thank the Sodwana Angling Club committee for creating an event that has developed into a world-class fishing competiton. Keep up your exemplarary work ethic, and all the very best for the future of the Bonanza.
FINAL STANDINGS
TOPTENINDIVIDUALS
Prize: Waveglider 520 on trailer powered by 100hp outboard
Angler & Team Length
Jayden Blesovsky, Keepnet SA .680mm
Sarel Meyer, NV 42 R
Rudolf vd Berg, Mazambaan
Daniel du Plessis, Indigo
Neil Pentolfe, Keepnet SA
George Durand, Dorado
Hennig Reinstorf, Bottomless
Rico Moore, Matatazela
Andre Nitzsche, Hello Tik Tok
Roy Heaver, Thatch
TOPFIVETEAMS
Prize: Trip to Cahora Bassa
WEARETHECHAMPIONS!
By Jayden Blesovsky
FINALLY,after many years of watching fellow anglers proudly walk up to the stage to the anthem of We Are the Champions,it was our turn!
.675mm
.670mm
.670mm
.670mm
.670mm
.665mm
.665mm
.660mm
.655mm
Team Name Combined length
Keepnet SA
Bottomless
Fish On
Indagrove
Dorado
.2420mm
.2250mm
.2235mm
.2185mm
.2165mm
If you,like me,come back year after year,then I look forward to seeing you on the water in 2026.If you are considering entering for your very first Tigerfish Bonanza experience,then please accept my recommendation to go ahead and book;it’s a decision you wont regret.
To find out more about the event as a potential sponsor or angler,call 0824525873 or visit <www.sodwanahengelklub.co.za>.
Since my first Tigerfish Bonanza back in 2001,I’ve dreamed of standing on that boat with my hands in the air. We’d come close so many times – seconds,thirds,and often in the top ten, but never quite reaching the summit. Deep down,I knew the top spot would eventually come if we stuck to our guns.Over the years,my old man fine-tuned a simple,logical method that consistently produced decent fish.We lost plenty of big ones at the net,but the system worked,and I trusted it would carry us through.
The first morning gave us two respectable fish:a 560mm caught by Mitch Pentolfe and a 510mm soon after.Respectable,but not yet championship material.
Everything changed the next day.I landed a 680mm beauty,and soon after Neil Pentolfe pulled in a fat 670mm tiger.The adrenaline on the boat was electric.We knew we were now just one more good fish away from a winning team score.Gareth “The G”Leyshon added a 420mm fish – smaller than the 600mm we’d hoped for,but it meant every one of us had a fish on the board.And that’s what it’s really about – teamwork,camaraderie, and everyone having a turn at the action.
In any competition,I believe it’s never just one angler who catches the winning fish.It’s the team.From the guy clearing the deck to the one guiding the boat or getting the landing net ready.Without that combined effort,a fish can be lost in seconds.That’s why I say we all caught the winning fish.
Tigerfish are notorious for their
savage strikes and equally savage head shakes,which often lead to hooks pulling or simply falling out.Over the years,we’ve learned that success comes down to balancing patience with aggression.We rely on specific traces refined by my old man over many years,with razor-sharp hooks guided by steady,soft hands.
Reading the water is key,and adapting to the conditions can make all the difference.Bait presentation can either entice a strike or spook a fish,but this is where adjustment and quick thinking separate an average session from a winning one.
Looking back,I’ve seen dramatic changes in the fishery since my early years at the Bonanza.Back then,we would carry our catches to the scales in hessian sacks.I remember the sight of piles of dead fish,none of us fully realising the damage we were causing to tigerfish stocks.
Credit must go to the Sodwana Angling Club committee for having the foresight to turn things around. Year after year they’ve introduced new rules to encourage live releases with multiple weigh stations,penalties for injured fish,even disqualification for fish unlikely to survive.Their partnership with Keepnet has taken it to another level,creating one of the best catch-and-release competition systems in the industry.
The results are clear:tigerfish stocks are rebounding,and the fishing is better now than I can remember in decades.
That gives me hope not only for future Bonanzas,but also for the next generation of anglers who will one day fight their own champions on Jozini Dam.That’s the true victory –ensuring the magic of tigerfishing will live on.•
Getting the low down on trolling motors
By Brett Bartho
OFFSHORE angling has evolved dramatically over the past decade.Nowadays,with the technology we fishermen
A few different brands of trolling motors are available in South Africa, and each brand offers varying shaft lengths, power supply options and remote control facilities. Ideally, choose one that can integrate with your chartplotter of choice
have at our fingertips,including advanced reef-mapping sonar,live-scope imaging and digital chartplotters,we are able to scout,navigate and fish with precision that was unheard of just a few years ago.
A newer development that is transforming how fishermen hold position over reefs,ledges or wrecks offshore, has been the rise in popularity of electric trolling motors with virtual-anchor (spot-lock) capabilities.Instead of drop-
can use one of these GPS-controlled, bow-mounted motors to maintain vessel position precisely – even in decent current or wind.The trolling motor allows instant repositioning with the push of a button,drastically improving productivity and reducing physical effort.
CAPABILITIES AND BENEFITS
An electric trolling motor equipped with virtual-anchor functions brings several key benefits when used as a sea anchor.
To start with,the GPSbased anchor lock holds the boat steady over a spot – such as a reef,wreck,or structure –without deploying conventional gear,which avoids anchor tangles,damage to bottom structure,and possible anchor loss should conditions deteriorate.
There’s also no need to take into consideration all the external factors at play and arduously calculate where to deploy your anchor ensuring you are exactly where you want to be.
These motors feature fine thrust control through 24V or 36V brushless designs that are remarkably efficient and whisper quiet,minimising disturbances to fish beneath the hull.
Power settings and precise auto-routing keep the vessel exactly where needed,even in rough conditions.We have proven the capabilities and advantages of our Power-pole trolling motor to hold us over the reef and on the fish with consistent use on our 22ft commercial fishing vessel –even in a 25knot south westerly wind and messy sea!
This linkwill take you to
Many brands of trolling motors have remote controls that allow you to operate the motor at the push of a button.
Many systems provide remote or joystick control (and gesture steering), enabling anglers to reposition the boat quickly.This is ideal for prospecting or moving between structures with virtually no downtime,or even for quietly trolling for gamefish such as king mackerel or leervis,simply by controlling
pushes of buttons on your remote.
Some electric motors also seamlessly integrate with advanced sonar.
Built-in transducers stream CHIRP, SideVue,and ClearVue or LiveScope imaging through the motor shaft,giving real-time visuals beneath and ahead of the boat without clutter or external mounts.(This is hugely beneficial in the bass fishing world too.)
Finally,another great benefit that also involves a safety aspect,is exceptionally useful when you take young kids fishing.
Employing the sea anchor function gives you the freedom to be able to focus solely on helping the kids and not having to either spend time stuck at the helm or deploying dangerous anchoring equipment.
Many skippers will sometimes forego anchoring and instead constantly be at the helm and on the controls, holding their anglers over a specific patch of reef whilst they bottomfish or jig for certain species of fish.
Unfortunately,this can sometimes lead to line entanglement in the props,especially if the conditions are tricky or crew lose focus.However, with the electric motor mounted up at the bow of the boat,it means that even when you’re fishing at the stern and down the sides of the vessel, you never have to worry about getting fouled up in the outboards.
SAFETY BENEFITS
Using an electric trolling motor as a virtual anchor definitely reduces risks compared to traditional anchoring.
There’s no need to handle heavy chain or rope in tricky offshore conditions,thus reducing the chance of entan-
The Power-Pole MOVE hard at work in 25 knot winds.
glement or injury.
If anchoring is illegal in a certain area or navigation is restricted – such as in a shipping channel – a virtual anchor enables anglers to hold position without violating regulations or risking anchor drag or fouling underwater hazards.Because the system can detect drag or drift (in integrated setups with smart-anchor functions),the motor can automatically correct position or redeploy virtual anchor control,keeping the boat safe when currents shift.
ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS
Another benefit to using the electric trolling motor’s capability as a sea anchor,is that you are protecting the fragile nature of certain reef systems by not doing any damage whilst deploying or retrieving your anchor.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS
Below I’ve listed some key considerations to think about when looking into buying an electric trolling motor or sea anchor for use on your offshore fishing vessel.These are crucial to handling wind,current and heavier boat weights safely and efficiently:
•Thrust rating.The rule of thumb here is 5lb of thrust per 200lb of boat weight-fully loaded.
•Shaft length.Ensure sufficient length to keep the motor head submerged in all conditions.
•Voltage system.Some products offer 24V and 36V options;it’s best to go 36V on bigger vessels and look for a lithium battery.
•Saltwater durability.Ensure the trolling motor is rated for saltwater use with sealed components and marine-grade materials.
•Advanced features.To get the best out of the product you ideally want GPS anchor/Spot-Lock,wireless remote controlling and system integration.
There are now several key players in this arena of the market,and leading brands such as Lowrance,Power-pole, Garmin and Minn Kota/Humminbird,to name but a few,have all done rigorous testing and development on their equipment.
It is now up to you to decide which one to buy,depending on your personal priorities – whether that’s ease of use,imaging quality,or overall automation and anchoring robustness. If you’re looking for safe,hassle-free anchoring and fishing,while being kept on the fish at the simple push of a button,then it may just be time to consider one of these setups.
In the January 2026 issue of SKI-BOAT magazine, Peter Jacobs will look deeper into the nitty gritty of installing and operating trolling motors on ski-boats.
These images show how the trolling motor is fitted to two different boats. Each boat’s installation needs to be carefully considered. This aspect will be covered in more detail in the next issue.
SAVEMONEY&SPACE
WHETHER you’re trolling the deep contours for pelagic species or making your own detailed Personal Bathy Generated (PBG) digital charts,multi-beam echosounders are quickly becoming “must-have”technology for anglers who want to stay ahead of the game.
We know that transducer placement can be tricky and costly,and that’s why Furuno has developed the Combination Transducer,an innovative all-in-one solution that saves you space, money,and hassle,without compromising performance.
By integrating the award-winning DFF3D multi-beam transducer element with built-in motion sensor and the popular dual-channel Airmar CHIRP elements,Furuno has created a transducer that truly gives you the best of both worlds.
These versatile transducers all include the FURUNO DFF3D multi-beam transducer element with options like B265 Low/High CHIRP,B275 Low/High CHIRP Wide, B164 50/200 kHz,or 30–60 kHz Low,80–130 kHz Medium plus temperature sensors.They connect seamlessly to both your DFF3D multi-beam sounder and your Furuno fish finder,eliminating the need for two separate installations.
The most popular choice for the South African ski-boat market is the 165T-50/200-TM260 which is a transom-mounted transducer with the 165khz multi-beam element and 1kW 50/200 CW frequency element.This transducer is supplied with a stainless steel Pro bracket with ten-pin socket that suits most Furuno fish finders.
Save space.Save money.Catch more.That’s the magic of Furuno’s combination transducers.
2025 Queens of the Ocean
By Sheena Carnie
Justin Klusener
EACHyear the excitement around the Queens of the Ocean competition sets the air in St Lucia,KwaZuluNatal,vibrating to a whole new level.How could it not when 113 keen women anglers plus their ground crew and supporters descend on the little coastal town?
The 2025 Queens of the Ocean competition – the fifth of this event – saw a record 38 boats entered and the marquee at the St Lucia Ski-Boat Club was filled to capacity on the
opening evening.Drinks flowed,music and laughter merged, and old friendships were renewed while new ones were forged.
Make no mistake,this is a serious fishing competition,but the organising committee is equally serious about providing top class entertainment,and this year that started off with Johan Lange doing a brilliant job of impersonating one of the ABBA singers,accompanied by some local dancing queens.
Photos:
Winners of the 2025 Queens of the Ocean, Team Valhalla III.
Kayla Meiring, top angler for 2025.
Spirits were high again at 5am on the Friday morning,by which stage most of the boats were lined up outside the boom gate leading to the beach.Thanks to beach control,all the boats launched safely,and by 7am everyone was out and the boats sped off to their chosen starting points based on the skippers’individual gameplans.Among them was the competition’s first all-women team,skippered by Melinda Snyman, NSRI’s station commander in St Lucia.
Conditions out on the ocean were choppy with a brisk north-easterly blowing to start with,shifting to an easterly around lunchtime,but that was not going to deter the eager anglers.With whales putting on a show all around us,and swift terns swooping and diving between the boats,the area’s awe-inspiring beauty is good enough reason to be out on the ocean.The Queens’Whatsapp group was constantly buzzing with updates on the shenanigans that were going on inbetween landing and releasing fish,but there was plenty of the latter too.
Onboard the defending champion boat, Ocean Commotion,skipper Stuart Worthington’s plan was to troll over structure in the shallow water off the launch site,hoping to land some Natal snoek and king mackerel.After a quick sarda sarda was boated,we put out some livebait and Simone Vicent soon had a pretty 4.7kg Natal snoek in the hatch.We continued trolling south off Mapelane,passing the beautifully forested dunes of that region,but after the ladies landed a little wolf herring and then lost something big,Stuart decided it was time to head out deep.
In 32m of water he spotted yellowfin jumping,and the game was on! While we were still trolling in the middle of nowhere,Nelia Louw’s reel started singing in tune to Duran Duran’s Hungry Like a Wolf which was pumping out of the speakers.After a short fight,the foul-hooked 7.5kg yellowfin tuna was also in the hatch.They weren’t especially big fish, but the species count was increasing.
The pattern for the day had already been set on Ocean Commotion:spot a whale breaching and soon afterwards the reel will sing.Sure enough after the next whale was spotted, pandemonium broke out – two rods away – and then off! Elation and disappointment,the twin companions on any fishing trip.
More whales spotted and again two reels screamed off. This time Girls on Film played appropriately as Nelia and Simone fought two fat skipjack which were soon in the hatch,and I snapped some photos.Three species notched up! Things were looking up.
With reports of a sailfish released and another boat calling for colours while fighting a marlin,it was clear the other boats were having plenty of action too.For us,though,whale sightings and screaming reels had all gone quiet,and all too soon it was time to beach.
At weigh in it was clear that the women meant business.A record 89 fish came to the scales,including some spectacular specimens.Zan Bowker on Sangoma landed a beautiful 23kg wahoo,Christi Stassen on Sabiki released a marlin and caught a very respectable 16.7kg wahoo,Kristel van Aswegen on Whatta brought in a spectacular 27.1kg king mackerel, Kaylee Bartho on Valhalla III landed a 20.7kg prodigal son, and Mechelle Durr on Wave Dancer caught her first fish ever – a sailfish! What an introduction to fishing.
Plenty of other smaller fish of various species were also landed,and as this is a species comp,the anglers knew that even if they only got average-size fish,if they got enough different species the multiplication factor would boost their points.
By the end of day one’s weigh in it was clear that Valhalla III had a large lead thanks to the ten fish of five different species landed by Danica Bartho,Kaylee Bartho and Philippa Rautenbach.
With the serious business of the day over with,it was time for a quick shower and change before the evening’s fancy dress party.This year’s theme was “Around the World”,and as
Simone Vicent with a beautiful 4.7kg Natal snoek.
Nelia Louw caught a stunning 7.5kg yellowfin tuna.
Michelle Durr caught her first fish ever – a sailfish!
LEFT: Christi Stassen released a marlin.
ABOVE: Kristel van Aswegen with her 27.1kg ’cuda.
RIGHT: Lana Leibrandt caught a 16.5kg prodigal son.
always,the anglers and their crews went to extraordinary lengths in their creativity.Teams dressed up as everything from air hostesses and pilots to news teams,leprechauns, global beer brands and Jamaican bob-sled teams.Countless different nationalities were also on show.
In the end,the leprechauns (the team on Joy Toy) stole the show and took home the prize for best costume.The live band,About Last Night,and the Magic Moments DJ kept the dance floor packed,but eventually it was time to head to bed for a few hours sleep before the games began again.
The teams were determined to do all they could to catch up to Valhalla III,and at first light the boats were again lined up ready to go.Although there had been some concerns about the weather,it was judged safe to launch and fish.The southerly wind made for bumpy conditions out at sea, though,and the fish were not nearly as eager as they had been on day one.
Day two’s weigh in was a much quicker affair with fewer fish being weighed.Still some beautiful specimens came out, including an 18kg prodigal son for Sunita Pretorius,a 16.5kg prodigal son for Lana Leibrandt,and an 18.9kg wahoo for Kendall Coombes.Kayla Meiring’s photos of the two 1.1m queenfish she released added nicely to her points.
Over the two days,163 fish of 12 different species were caught.Even better,every boat weighed fish.These anglers may have prettier faces than their male counterparts and neater nails,but they put in just as much effort on the water.
Prize giving on Saturday night confirmed general suspicions that no-one had managed to catch up to Valhalla III They took the prize for top boat with a whopping 473.8 points,more than double the 183 points earned by second placed Wave Dancer and third placed Bobby Flooz (174 points).
As the only angler on Bobby Flooz ,Kayla Meiring had worked hard to get that third place in the boat category,and her hard work paid off when she was declared Queen of the Ocean for 2025 – the top individual angler at this year’s event.It’s the second time she’s taken that title,and quite possibly won’t be the last.Kaylee bartho came a close second just 3.6 points behind Kayla,and Christi Stassen came third in that category.
A mountain of other prizes were handed out for the heaviest fish of each species and the top ten boats and anglers, among others,so there was plenty to celebrate when the serious business was all over and the band returned to entertain
us for another night.As always,St Lucia was rocking till the early hours,with many anglers looking a little worse for wear the next morning as they vowed to return and dethrone Valhalla III’s queens next year.
Mark your diaries now for the 2026 event which will run from 6 to 9 August 2026,with a public holiday afterwards to recover on.See you there!
TOPBOATS
1. Valhalla III
2. Wave Dancer
3. Bobby Flooz
Whatta
Sabiki
6. Nkunzi Malanga
7. JN
Aqua Joy
Hannock
Climax
TOPANGLERS
1.Kayla Meiring, Bobby Flooz
2.Kaylee Bartho, Valhalla III
3. Christi Stassen, Sabiki
4.Michelle Theunissen, Hannock
5.Kendall Coombes, Nkunzi Malanga
6. Desiree Spamers, Hannock
7.Christelle Boshoff, JN
8.Danica Bartho, Valhalla III
9.Mechelle Durr, Wave Dancer
10.Kristel van Aswegen, Whatta
BIGGESTFISHOFEACHSPECIES
Snoek: 8.6kg, Magriet Potgieter, Vyfster
Wahoo: 23kg, Zan Bowker, Sangoma
Yellowfin tuna: 13kg, Ilze Knoetze, Y-Knot
Yellowfin tuna: 13kg, Julene Nance, PO10C
Dorado: 11.4kg, Anna van Dyk, Whatta
Prodigal son: 20.7kg, Kaylee Bartho, Valhalla III
King Mackerel: 27.1kg, Kristel van Aswegen, Whatta
BIGGESTFISHOFTHECOMPETITION:
27.1kg king mackerel, Kristel van Aswegen, Whatta
Valhalla III Takes the Win 2025 Queens of the Ocean
By Kaylee Bartho, Danica Bartho and Philippa Rautenbach
THERE’S a special kind of excitement at a ladies’fishing competition.For most women,it’s not just about the fishing – it’s the rare treat of a kid-free weekend, quality time with our husbands,family,and friends, and not having to lift a finger (apart from picking up a rod).
The annual Queens of the Ocean event in St Lucia is so well organised,that all we had to do was focus on fishing and fun.From seamless planning to the generous goodie bags, even boat lunches and dinners taken care of,every detail was covered,leaving us free to soak up the vibe,laugh together, and enjoy every moment on and off the water.
This year,at the Queens of the Ocean Fishing Competition,the three of us – Danica Bartho,Kaylee Bartho, and Philippa Rautenbach – joined forces on Valhalla III,the Bartho family boat.With our husbands in support roles (skipper,gilly,and ground crew),and a good dose of laughter, snacks,and sisterhood,we set out to fish hard,have fun,and make memories.
We never expected to walk away as the overall winners, but as we quickly learned,sometimes it’s just your day.Fishing is always a gamble – no matter how much skill you have,the
sea has its own plans – so when it all comes together,it’s a special moment to savour.
MEET TEAM VALHALLA
Unlike our husbands,we don’t fish often,so we’re still fairly new to the sport – especially competitively.In fact,this was only our third time entering the Queens of the Ocean.For us, this competition is as much about camaraderie and fun as it is about the fishing.Just like the fearless Vikings who inspired our boat’s name,we set out with determination,laughter,and a sense of adventure.
None of this would have been possible without our incredible men cheering us on from the wings.Our skipper, Daryl Bartho (Kaylee’s husband),was our rock at the helm. From flawless launches through St Lucia’s notorious surf to putting us spot-on at the marks,he gave us the confidence to fish without worrying about a thing.
On deck,Brett Bartho (Danica’s husband) was our gilly, and he truly worked his butt off.From rigging baits,managing lines and gaffing fish,to offering constant encouragement, Brett was the unsung hero who kept our chaos in check.
DAY 2 – HOLDING OUR NERVE
And then there was Roscoe Rautenbach (Philippa’s husband),our ground crew.Roscoe was the life of the party on land – always ready with gees,logistics and,most importantly, ice-cold drinks when we hit the beach.
DAY 1 – A DREAM START
We couldn’t have asked for a better start.Within minutes of being given the lines-down signal,our Yamahas powered us 15km north of the launch site.We were ready for action! Two of us hooked up almost instantly with an exhilarating doubleup on queenfish.
From there,the ocean just kept giving.Two solid 6kg bonnies hit the deck soon after the queenfish,and then came the fish of the day:a 20.8kg prodigal son that nearly pulled Kaylee’s arms off.After an epic fight,she brought it to the gaff. That fish turned out to be the largest prodigal son of the weekend and the third-largest fish overall.
We then pushed out to the ledge and trolled Halcos, where we landed four small yellowfin tuna – three of which made the 5kg minimum weight.And just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better,a beautiful wahoo rounded out our tally.
Even with all the excitement on deck,we couldn’t help but take in the amazing surroundings.Being out off the iSimangaliso Wetland Park world heritage site meant wildlife was everywhere – dolphins swam close to the boat,whales breached in the distance,and seabirds dived through bait balls all around us.
By the time we headed back to the beach,we had racked up five different species and about 380 points,putting us firmly in the lead after Day 1.Spirits were sky high as we celebrated with Roscoe on the beach,G&Ts in hand.
We woke up on Day 2 knowing the pressure was on.With almost 40 boats in the competition,anything could still happen,and we had to hold our nerve.The fishing was slower, but determination paid off as we added another bonnie, another yellowfin tuna,and another prodigal son to our scorecard.
Every fish mattered,and every point counted.We kept the pressure at bay with plenty of snacks,naps taken in turns,and more than a few giggles during our less-than-graceful wee breaks over the side of the boat – just one of the quirks of being a lady at sea!
That night at prize giving,when the points were tallied and Valhalla III was announced as the winning boat with 473.80 points,we were beyond proud.We were proud not just of the title,but also of how we had fished together as a team – no mis-gaffs,no arguments,and still very much on speaking terms!
REFLECTIONS FROM THE QUEENS
Looking back,we’ll always remember this competition as a celebration of women in fishing.Standing on that stage as Team Valhalla III,holding the winning trophy,wasn’t just about the fish – it was about the experience,the friendships, and the proof that fishing is just as much about heart as it is about skill.
This competition adds such value that even if you don’t win,you walk away a winner.The organising committee did a phenomenal job – from the smooth planning to the incredible vibe,the festivities,the generous sponsors,the gift bags,and the prizes.They’ve created something truly special for lady anglers,and we’re already counting the days to the next one.
We went to St Lucia hoping for a fun weekend away,and we came home as Queens of the Ocean!
Kaylee and Philippa hard at work fighting tuna.
DREAMSOFTHEDEEP
The 2025 SADSAA All-Stars Dream Catchers Weekend
Article by Mri Myburgh
Photos by Justin Klusener
FROM 8 to 10 August 2025,the Richards Bay waters once again hosted the remarkable SADSAA All-Stars Dream Catchers Initiative.Following the overwhelming success of the 2024 edition,the South African Deep Sea Angling Association (SADSAA) returned to the North Coast
for the fourth annual running of this event – this time,hosted by the Meerensee Boat Club.
This program not only makes dreams come true but also proves that, with the right support and mentorship, the ocean truly is for everyone,regardless of their challenges.The initiative was designed to offer individuals living with disabilities or challenges the unforgettable experience of going deep sea
fishing,guided by provincial,SADSAA and Protea anglers.
ADVENTURE, MENTORSHIP, AND MEMORIES
This year 23 extraordinary anglers from across the country got to participate. Each All-Star was paired with a skipper who graciously offered their boat for the All-Star,their parent or guardian,and a mentor angler for two days of adven-
ture out on God’s water garden.
Months of meticulous planning and coordination by a small,dedicated team of organisers culminated in the highly anticipated weekend.Tireless effort ensured every detail was covered.On the Friday,the venue was transformed into a vibrant,fun and welcoming space where everyone was embraced for the unique light they bring to the world.And,indeed,these lights shone brightly.
When they arrived,the All-Stars and their families were introduced to their paired skippers and deckhands.The air buzzed with excitement as registration got underway,and each participant got called up for a photo with Neil Coetzer, the visionary behind the event.Neil handed out special goody bags filled with generous gifts from sponsors,making the start of the weekend feel even more personal and welcoming.
Next up was the formal opening function,where Anton van den Berg, Acting President of SADSAA,expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors, volunteering skippers,deckhands and families for all their support. Acknowledging the hard work of the organising committee,he highlighted
the incredible power of a community that has a common goal.
The evening ended with a beautifully presented,hearty meal that delighted everyone’s taste buds.With a bit of gentle Mom-persuasion,excited anglers were finally ushered off to bed to rest before their big day out on the water.
A PERFECT DAY ON THE WATER
Saturday greeted us with brisk morning air while everyone enjoyed breakfast and a cup of coffee together at the boat club.The excitement was palpable as teams made their way to their boats for launching.With the sound of engines humming,the boats all waited together at the harbour mouth for the blessing of the fleet before they set off for a day of fishing,laughte and unforgettable memories.
Later that day,the scales saw some great catches,with a variety of bottomfish and gamefish having been reeled in by these amazing anglers.The All-Stars were met with cheers from the enthusiastic crowd as they posed with their catches.
Consistent with tradition,Saturday night brought the “gees”– this time in the form of a lively tropical island-
themed party where All-Stars,skippers, and their families dressed up and let loose.But first it was Build-a-Burger time because,after all,no one can truly show off their dance moves on an empty stomach! The dance floor came alive,and singing talents were on full display as new friendships blossomed
IMPLEMENTINGPLANB
Unfortunately,Sunday’s weather didn’t cooperate,and all the teams remained safely on land.However,that didn’t mean the fun was cancelled!
The day kicked off with a morning picnic and fishing along the club’s bank,which was enjoyed by everyone. To add some competitive spirit to the mix,a generous sponsor announced prizes for the biggest and most fish caught,giving the All-Stars and their mentors a fun challenge to chase.
When skipper and co-organiser Les Harley lost a bet to his All-Star the previous night after a vocal showdown,he was faced with the challenge of swimming across the canal to the boat club. The crowd cheered as Les braved the cold water and Eye of the Tiger blared in the background.Eventually Les crawled onto the slipway towards the
paramedic following a much needed assist from a boat.This scene quickly became the highlight of the day!
CLOSING WITH GRATITUDE
Emotions flowed freely at the closing ceremony where the skippers,deckhands,and All-Stars were each presented with special certificates,medals, SADSAA pins and trophies in recognition of their participation.As everyone shared a final meal together before going their separate ways,it was clear that this event had created lasting bonds — a true testament to the power of community.
For many,the weekend was more
than just a fishing trip,it was a celebration of possibility,inclusion and the unbreakable spirit of community.New friendships had been formed,and memories that would last a lifetime had been made.
When I volunteered to help organise this event,I could never have imagined the profound impact it would have on my own life too.This simple act turned into an experience that has reshaped my entire perspective.The journey wasn’t without its setbacks, disappointments and unexpected detours,but it never fell short of rewarding challenges,valuable lessons, fun,and a deep sense of fulfilment.
There are no words to truly capture what such a journey does to one’s soul.The overwhelming sense of awe and gratitude I feel to our Creator for sending each sponsor and donor our way,and for making everything come together,is breathtaking.
This is what happens when a community comes together with love,passion and purpose.On behalf of the AllStars Committee,I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all the precious sponsors,volunteers and supporters.Because of your support,these young anglers and everyone involved will carry cherished memories with them forever.
A SINCERE THANKYOUTOOURSPONSORS:
FISHINGISSIMPLY THEBEST!
by Licha du Plessis
MY name is Licha and I was just 12 years old when I was first chosen to fish the All Stars.From the very first trip,I just knew it was something I would love.My family all enjoy fishing, so it felt like something I had to try.
Being out on the boat with the big blue ocean around me makes me feel super happy! The ocean is so pretty, and I love watching the waves,the sunlight on the water,and all the cool sea animals that pop up.I get so excited when I see dolphins,whales,and my absolute favourite – sea turtles! Spotting those creatures is just as much fun as catching a fish!
One of the reasons I love fishing so much is also due to my favourite skipper,Gippie.He’s the best.If I had to choose between my brother and
Gippie as skipper,I’d pick Gippie every time! (Sorry,Boetie!) He’s funny and patient,and he always makes sure I’m part of everything.With him,I feel like I can catch any fish that bites.
The best part of fishing for me is the fight! When the rod bends and the fish pulls,I get so excited.When I finally see the fish in the water,all shiny, just before we bring it onto the boat,I just can’t stop smiling! That is my favourite moment!
At this year’s All Stars,I had the best day ever.With Gippie,my dad,and Rhyno (who I call “Gillie”),we managed to catch four snoek! I was super lucky because my Oupa joined us too. He helped me land one of the snoek, which made it even more special. Every time a fish came on board,we had huge high fives and hugs,and
those high fives are the best because for me it means we’re all a team!
Of course,fishing trips aren’t just about catching fish.I love all the snacks on the boat! Between handling the bites on the line,we always have time to munch on something,which makes my day even more fun.
Even though I’ve caught snoek,I’m already thinking about my next big fish challenge.The fish I really want to catch now is a garrick.That’s my next goal,and I know together with my dad,it’s going to happen one day.
Fishing means so much to me because it’s not just about the rods and reels,it’s about family,fun and making awesome memories.Every trip is special,and I can’t wait for the next one:more fish,more sea animals,more high fives and more snacks!
By Aljo Ludick
EVERY ski-boat skipper and crew member already wears a pair of sunglasses,so that’s not the debate.The question is whether the pair on your face is built for offshore conditions – beach launches at first light,harbour chop in a headwind, and long hours of glare on open water.
We spend big on boats and fuel,yet we often skimp on the gear for our eyes.
FIRST LIGHT: THE LAUNCH
Half-light is unforgiving.On the beach you’re reading gaps before the backline, and out of the harbour you’re steering into a low sun skipping off the swells. Spray finds your face either way.
This is where purpose-built lenses matter.Back-surface anti-reflective layers tame ghost flashes across the water, and contrast-boosting tints hold detail so the skipper can call a gap and the crew can keep a clean line.Cheap pairs of sunglasses often fog or over-darken exactly when definition matters most.
THE RUN OUT: SPRAY + GLARE
Trim up,throttles settled,and you’re hit with spray,wind and reflected light from every angle.
With ordinary sunglasses,you’re wiping and smearing all the way to the fishing grounds.With the right pair, hydrophobic top-coats bead water,oleophobic layers wipe clean in one pass, and a sensible mirror takes the sting as the sun climbs.
Same skipper,same sea,just a clean-
er horizon at the helm and a clearer deck for the crew.
POLARISED POLARISED
Just because it says “polarised”on the tag doesn’t guarantee offshore performance.What counts is the film,the build and the optics.
On proper eyewear the polarising film is laminated inside the lens stack and sealed so salt and heat can’t reach it.On cheap pairs the film sits on the
MID-DAY SPRAY FIX
Rinse your sunglasses with drinking water, blow off the drops and BLOT with the clean corner of your buff or clean towel. Proper coatings do the rest.
surface;it scratches,crazes,and teastains at the edges after a few launches.
High-grade films kill more horizontal glare off water,while low-grade film lets too much through,hence you’ll be squinting even though the label says polarised.
Offshore frames are usually high wrap,so the optics must be cut and decentred to allow for that curve.If they’re not,straight lines go wavy and the view softens at the edges.That’s classic cheap-polarised fatigue.And without a back-surface anti-reflective layer,light from your cheek bounces off the inside of the lens and fades the picture when you need contrast the most.
COMFORT + IMPACT
When the sun sits high,the deck throws light back into your eyes.If your sunglasses pinch,slip or fog,they’ll end up in a pocket and your eyes will take the hiding.
Look for sunglasses that have the right features to counter this.
•Wraparound shapes block side-glare on a quartering wind.
•Lightweight lenses ease all-day strain.
•Rubber grips and subtle venting keep frames planted and clear when the cockpit is wet and busy.
•Polycarbonate or NXT/Trivex lenses
QUICK POLARISED LENS CHECK:
1. Rotate two polarised lenses 90°to one another. Strong film goes very dark.
2. Tilt your phone or sounder behind the lens. Good polarisation blacks out cleanly.
3. Put on a pair of wrap sunglasses and scan a straight gunnel/horizon. If it bends, the optics aren’t cut for wrap.
shrug off knocks that would shatter bargain plastics.This is important for crew who work close to flying lures,tight leaders and gaffs.
The right pair disappears on your face;the wrong pair gets ditched before the bite comes.
STANDINGUPTO THE SALT
Offshore frames need to be like the rest of your kit – light,tough,corrosionsmart.Nylon or TR90 holds its shape after hours baking on a hot console, while cheap acetates/soft plastics warp and loosen.
Avoid any metal types – you don’t want any metal hinges,screws,springs, or wire cores.Salt finds them and they seize.
Instead,pick full-nylon/TR90 with moulded (monobloc) hinges or polymer pins,a wrap that fits your face,and just enough ventilation to prevent fogging.That’s a frame you’ll wear from launch to tie-up.
THE RUN HOME: SAFETY
It’s midday,there’s glare bouncing off the swell,and your crew is tired,but the skipper must still line up a beach gap or thread through harbour traffic.
Scratched,warped or fogged sunglasses will delay you noticing buoys and drift.Quality eyewear keeps its clar-
High quality polarised sunglasses will cut the glare and enhance the colour of what you’re looking at, improving contrast and enabling you to see below the surface.
ity and alignment so decisions are made one wave earlier.That’s not comfort; that’s safety.
THE REAL COST
The R350 “garage shop”pair of sunglasses might survive a calm day,but in salt and heat they often fog up,get scratched and corrode fast.Replace them once in a season and you’ve spent R350–R700.With heavy use you’ll need to replace them two or three times a season,so you’re at a minimum of R700–R1050,still without serious glare-kill,back-AR,impact resistance or saltproof coatings.
A purpose-built pair of sunglasses goes for R2000–R3500,but if they’re looked after,they typically last three to four seasons.That means you’re paying roughly R500–R1170 per season,with all the benefits of sealed polarisation, hydrophobic/oleophobic + back-AR, impact-resistant lenses – and frames that stay straight.
Money aside,the pro pair keeps doing its job in the surf zone,on the run,and on the way home.The cheap ones usually don’t.
AFTER THE RUN
Here’s a two-minute routine that works to prolong the life of your sunglasses. When you hose the boat,hose the lenses with fresh water before the salt dries.If they’re gritty,rub on a drop of mild dish soap between finger and thumb,then rinse clean.Shake,then blot with the microfibre pouch you kept dry – not a shirt or paper towel. Stow them in a hard case in the shade, not on a hot console or buried in a tackle tray.
SAME SEA, SAME RULES
Although their roles differ,skippers and crew are working in the same environment and all need to take good care of their eyes.Skippers need clean horizons and sounder-to-water swaps without eye shock.Crew need impact protection and a fit that stays put when the deck gets lively.
You’re already wearing sunglasses, so make sure they’re offshore grade with sealed polarisation,real glare-kill, back-AR,saltproof coatings,and frames that don’t give up when the wind gets on the nose.
Chasing blue marlin across the globe
By Johan “Bees” Terblanche
SINCE my very first day on the ocean when I was five and we surf launched a 14’6’’ ski-boat off Sodwana, the sport of big game fishing has been a family affair and a shared passion for us all. I cut my teeth fishing mostly with my family and close friends both competitively (Mpumalanga interclub tournaments, the OET, Mpumalanga junior tourneys, junior nationals, the Billfish 15000, etc.) and during family vacations, with a month-long annual pilgrimage to Sodwana for marlin season and a few other trips mostly along the South African coastline during my formative years. From a very early age, I was fortunate, to have not only the guidance of my parents, but also that of many of the serious Mpumalanga marlin fishermen and a number of the Dorado SkiBoat Club stalwarts, chief among them Oom Piet Joubert (Bonito). I was privileged to spend countless hours fishing with and learning from a number of the top billfish teams in the country. Those early experiences were the sparks that lit a fire that still rages (some might say mostly out of control) almost half a century later!
PICKINGABASE
As I built my professional career and my wife and I raised our two daughters in a land-locked country,I fished a lot less than I’d have liked to until I acquired Impi,a 48-foot Ocean Yachts sportfisher,in 2020.
Having fished in many of the top marlin locations in both the Indian and Atlantic oceans,I then had to decide where I would base the operation.I considered what I knew and had personally experienced,spoke to a lot of fellow fishermen,professional captains and friends,and ultimately decided to base Impi at La Gomera in the Canary Islands.
There are a number of reasons I made this choice:great fishing throughout the year,relative ease to get to and
from continental Europe and the UK, the variety and size of the fish we have there,the natural beauty and incredible diversity of landscapes on the island, the availability of other activities such as golf and hiking,the quality of the food,and last but not least the African weather combined with European infrastructure and security.
While it is difficult for me to believe,I recently calculated that the last time my folks,my brother Wian and I fished for marlin together was over 25 years ago! In the interim,I have fished separately with my dad and my brother a couple of times,and even did some gamefishing with my mother and another brother in the Caribbean,but Covid kiboshed a trip to Cabo Verde for those based in South Africa,and circum-
stances outside our control meant that my mom could not join my dad on his previous trip to the Canaries,and my brother’s visits did not coincide with that one either.
I was determined to get us all together for another roll of the dice.
TWOMORECONVERTED
Things finally fell into place this past July/August and I had not only mom and dad with me,but also my brother (Wian),my wife (who I met on a fishing trip to the Seychelles many years ago), my two daughters and their boyfriends who all descended on La Gomera to finally chase blue marlin together again. Not only did we manage to do it together for the first time in a long time,but we also added the next generation,and
The author rates the Canary Islands as one of the world’s top blue marlin fishing spots, as it delivers great fishing allyear round, including this estimated 800lb blue marlin (left) caught by Johan’s father on his previous trip.
I’m pretty certain that we have converted both of the boyfriends to lifelong marlin fishermen too.My apologies for the certain and significant negative impact this will have on the collective finances of both couples!
While the fishing was excellent,the older two generations also revelled simply in the nostalgia of being able to do this together again after such a long break.I smiled when my mother frequently referred to the house we had rented as “the camp”and used the phrase “boat packs”,a term I had not heard in many,many years!
For those who are not familiar with the Canary Islands,the islands (which oficially belong to Spain) are located in the Eastern Atlantic,west of the southern part of Morocco.This is north of
Cabo Verde and south of Madeira,and is therefore slap bang in the middle of the annual migration path of the Atlantic blue marlin.La Gomera is the second smallest of the seven main islands that make up the Canary Islands and is recognised as the prime location for marlin fishing in particular because of the topography,the currents and the abundance of baitfish and tuna.
JURASSICPARK
When it comes to fishing,I think of La Gomera as the Jurassic Park of bluewater fishing.For just about any species that we catch,the average sizes are enormous.In just about every season we catch as many blue marlin of 500lb or larger as we do smaller ones,and granders are caught each year.Giant
bluefin tuna pass by in March and April each year and range between about 600lb and 900lb for the most part. Bigeye tuna range from about 140lb to well over 300lb,and skipjack tuna get up to 45lb.The all-tackle world record was caught there.Massive amberjacks abound on the reefs,bluefish/shad of sizes that not even the Durban oldtimers will believe are frequent in winter,and we can literally fill the boat with decent (35- to 50lb) wahoo year round.White marlin,spearfish and dorado also show up from time to time,as do longfin tuna (albacore) during our winter months.There is also excellent jigging for snapper,bream,grouper and other bottomfish – if the amberjacks don’t get to the jig first.I still get excited just writing this all down!
In addition to the top-notch marlin fishing, the Canary Islands also deliver plenty of high quality gamefish like dorado, wahoo and big eye tuna.
Below: The Terblanche family fishing together again at last.
PAYDAY
The marlin season lasts from mid-May to early October,with the largest fish typically caught at the beginning and back end of the season,although August usually produces plenty of fish in the 500- to 750lb range.
This year,in ten days of fishing,we released eight blue marlin from 17 bites (and saw a bunch more),and went onefrom-one on white marlin – despite “wasting”a couple of hours to get some wahoo for ceviche.
For some reason the fish were generally a bit less aggressive on the bite, leading to a few more pulled hooks and missed hook-ups than we usually have. On one afternoon everything fell
squarely into place and it seemed that there were marlin everywhere! We had two from five (including two double strikes) in a matter of about three hours or so on the tide change.Adrenaline aplenty!
However,more important even than the amazing fishing we experienced was the opportunity to do it with three generations of the family.
We have shared these special times since the early 1980s when my dad acquired Shani (a name shared by my eldest daughter) and it was a true privilege to be able to do it all together again.
When all is said and done,it is the experiences (and the passionate people
we meet along the way) that make life special.Who better to share it with than family and friends? I feel truly blessed to be able to still do this together with those I love,and this recent trip will live on in our individual memories for as long as we all live.
We’re not all able to take luxury trips to international destinations,but I encourage SKI-BOAT ’s readers to continue to relentlessly pursue their passion with good friends and family,wherever they may be.
• If anyone is interested in finding out more about our fishing adventures and charters in La Gomera, they can follow my Instagram account impi_fishing.
APPLICATION FORM
I hereby apply for the Basil Manning Award in the category:
YOUR favourite offshore angling magazine, SKI-BOAT, in conjunction with Basil Manning and the South African Deep Sea Angling Association , is proud to offer all South African skiboaters the unique opportunity to win awards for excellence in angling.
RULES:
There is no restriction on the number of awards which can be applied for.
Award applicants must submit a photograph of the relevant fish with the application form and a photograph of the angler with the fish.
Tick the appropriate box and supply us with the following information. Please remember to print clearly.
Digital emailed photographs should be high-resolution and sent to angler@mags.co.za
All deep sea anglers who achieve laid down standards of excellence will be entitled to apply for the Basil Manning Award.Upon ratification by a panel of adjudicators,the angler will receive a handsome digital certificate,suitably inscribed.
The Basil Manning Awardwill be made for fish caught in two sections:
1) Meritorious Fish
This award is for a fish that’s a memorable achievement for the angler,if not a personal best,and is not confined to the species listed below.Tackle used is of no consideration here,the fish's weight being the main criterion.
2) Outstanding Catch
To satisfy the requirements for this award,anglers can catch any recognised fish species.As a guideline,the weight of that fish must equal or exceed the suggested weights below,or certain laid down fish weight:line class ratios.
Awards will be made in the following ratio categories:
3:1 – Bronze Award
5:1 – Silver Award
7:1 – Silver Award
10:1 – Gold Award.
Applies to IGFA line class 1kg ,2kg,4kg, 6kg,10kg,15kg,24kg,37kg and 60kg.
SKI-BOAT reserves the right to use the photograph as it sees fit.
Entries must be on the official form which is included in all issues of the magazine. Entires must be received within 45 days of capture.
No witnesses of the catch are required. The award is made in the true spirit of sportsmanship and relies on the integrity of the angler to make a just claim.
Aselection of award winners’names will be announced in future issues of SKIBOAT, along with relevant photographs. Award applicants should allow 30-45 days for processing of applications. There is no charge for these awards.
(Leervis)
RELEASED BILLFISH AND GT (Ignobilis) KINGFISH
With the strong trend towards releasing these and other fish, we have decided to amend the Basil Manning Award rules to provide for acknowledgement of all released fish. All we need is a photo of the fish being released or prior to release (e.g. GT held next to the boat) and the approximate weight of the fish which should fall in line with the stipulated weights set out above.
In line with this trend we will not be carrying photographs on the Basil Manning Awards page of any billfish or GTs aside from those that are released.
has
This stunning 45.2kg red steenbras caught off the Bluff, Durban earned Deon Kemp a Gold Meritorious Award for his outstanding catch.
has
a
has
a
Henry Devine
been awarded
Gold Meritorious Award for the catch and release of this beautiful marlin off Sodwana Bay.
Henry Devine has also been awarded a Gold Meritorious Award for this 21.3kg wahoo caught off Sodwana Bay.
Brett Vanderwagen
been awarded
Gold Meritorious Award for his stunning 23.78kg ’cuda caught off Westbrook.
Ryan Mostert
been awarded a Gold Meritorious Award for this 25.2kg ’cuda caught off Richards Bay.
Left: The Kanama Smart Bait partially inserted into the mouth of a rigged dead bait, and below, fully inserted into the bait and swimming in Jozini Dam.
GETTINGSMARTABOUTFOOLINGTHEFISH
Test driving a robotic lure
By Erwin Bursik
WHAT lengths will an angler go to to tempt a fish to take a bait? This was my first thought when Mark Lesch,the importer of the Kanama Smart Bait (a type of robotic lure),sent me this device to try during the recent Tigerfish Bonanza at Jozini Dam.
I was intrigued when the crew on Mr Ski-Boat opened the box and began figuring out how to use this “wiggler”in both a dead tilapia that we had been using as livebait before it died,and a mackerel deadbait that we hoped would tempt the tigers to bite.
In broad terms,the flat spike is pushed into the dead bait’s mouth and
deep into its body,and the bait is dropped overboard.
The chargeable battery in the solid, waterproof body is activated upon immersion in water,and it causes the flat spike to oscillate,making the bait move as though it were still alive and swimming.
There is no off switch;the moisture sensor detects when it is in water,and it keeps the gadget oscillating when the bait is being trolled or is drifting.
We had a lot of fun watching the Kanama Smart Bait in action in the water.I was amazed at how realistic the bait looked while being slow trolled and drifting.
Mark also imports a floating Smart Fishing Light that enables anglers to see
exactly where their bait is,even in lowlight conditions.That also worked well in our practice sessions.
For a number of reasons,we did not swim this device in Jozini’s waters, other than very close to the boat,as I was scared of losing the fairly expensive rig to the vast array of underwater obstacles in the dam.
Being selfish,I retained it to use in the ocean off Durban in the upcoming dorado season.I am convinced it will work well as an alternative to livebait or plastics,and I hope to have many stories of great gamefish catches to share in the next issue of SKI-BOAT
For further information contact Mark Lesch on 0824007860 or email <mark@genflo.co.za>.
FACT,FICTION,FISHING & FUN
Reviewed by Erwin Bursik
IN the preface to Gary Maas’s book, Fact,Fiction,Fishing & Fun,I express my opinion that Gary’s style of writing is “direct,to the point,with no punches barred”and I stand by that,even more so after seeing the final draft of his book before it went to the printers.
Boy oh boy,whether fact or fiction or a mixture of the two,his stories are certainly memorable.Those of us old ski-boaters who have been riding the waves of the ocean since the 1960s will have our memories jogged – amused in places and embarrassed at others no doubt – as we read of Gary’s shenanigans in his hey days.Younger skiboaters may laugh or cringe at some of Gary’s adventures,but there’s no doubt he’s lived his life to the full.
Gary was introduced to offshore angling in the 1950s by his father,Gerry Maas,an ardent member of the Durban Ski-Boat Club who had a reputation for knowing how to catch ’cuda.
Over time,Gary made his own mark on the fishing world,earning provincial and national colours for fishing,and becoming known as the man who knew how to catch marlin off Durban. He and his boat, Carpetbagger,became synonymous with this sport.
In later years he sold his boat and moved to the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands to become a farmer and trout breeder, but his deep love of the ocean and all the fish that swim in it has never waned.
In between all the fishing there were many other adventures and interesting characters who crossed Gary’s path who made an impact on him.
Gary has long dreamed of putting all his experiences down on paper,and has now done so in this collection of anecdotes from his life – from stories of catching snakes in Durban to sell to the snake park,graduating to selling carpets,the first boat he bought at age 17, and all the many fishing and life stories from that time on,including numerous interesting characters,places and catches that live on in Gary’s memory.
I can definitely substantiate at least one of the pillars on which Gary’s book stands:Fishing is FUN,and this man has certainly had plenty of that in his time.
Gary’s book will be available to buy before the Christmas season.For further information email <carpetbagger@mweb.co.za>,phone Gary on 0824135003 or phone Shirley on 0832703817.
IFWEDON’TLAUGH WE’LLCRY!
By Sulesda Willemse
WHAT was supposed to be a smooth ladies’fishing trip to St Lucia turned into an adventure long before we ever set foot on the boat.
It all began about a week before the 2025 Queens of the Ocean competition,when our original boat’s engine gave up on life.Just quit.No warning, no goodbye note – just spluttered its last breath like a teenager faking illness before school.Cue full-blown chaos!
We scrambled to find another boat, and thankfully found one that was waiting for us in Port Edward.The only catch? We had to cut the crew from five to three.It was like a real-life episode of Survivor:Fishing Edition
Luckily,one of the ladies volunteered to stay behind,admitting she didn’t mind playing “ground crew”– mostly because the sea and her stomach had had an ongoing feud since 1998.
Annaré Bester,Natasha Herbst and I were the lucky ones who would be going to sea!
With our new boat secured,the three of us hit the road from Pretoria to Palm Beach – a fast eight-hour drive of just under 600km.We rolled into Palm Beach just before 1p.m.,had a celebratory drink (or two),and hitched the boat early that evening so we could be on the road bright and early at 5a.m.
That was the plan.
Barely 30 seconds into our trip to St Lucia,we felt something was wrong. Looking back,we saw the nightmare: the boat’s trailer had come loose from the bakkie! And there we were,three women,pre-coffee,pre-dawn,on a hill, trying to wrangle a runaway boat back onto the trailer!
It turned into a 45-minute-long juggling act.Annaré and I moved the boat and trailer centimetre by centimetre and pushed rocks under the wheels,
while Natasha tried to align the bakkie and the trailer.At one point,when we were all ready to give up,something extraordinary happened – the trailer moved,all on its own,and slid perfectly onto the tow-hitch!
I looked at Annaré in disbelief,only to see her eyes wide as saucers.She whispered that,in that very moment, she had been praying to God to help us.We both burst out laughing – half in shock,half in relief.Divine intervention or pure luck,we weren’t going to question it.
With the boat finally secured,we set off again.But the road to St Lucia was no small feat – 390km,Durban peak traffic,and the added stress of towing a boat.Luckily,patience comes naturally when you’re a mom,and between the three of us,we had plenty to spare.
Meanwhile,the rest of our team –Larraine Powell and Angelique Meyer –took their own detour,right into a sand road so deep and soft it looked like the Kalahari’s cousin! With no signal and their wheels buried,they spent hours digging,sweating,and possibly rethinking their life choices.By the time they reached our accommodation,they looked like they’d travelled through the earth’s core – and brought half of it with them.
Finally,we were all together.Slightly broken,mildly sunburnt,but ready for action.It was time to put away all the Rapala Lips and focus on the fun ahead.
The first day of fishing was blessed with perfect weather.Spirits were high, but our fish count? Not so much.The only catch was a tiny 20cm lizard fish which couldn’t even be used as bait.
Day two brought more sunshine and a bit more excitement.I landed a bonnie,but it was,once again,too small to measure.But our luck turned when the team managed to bring in six tuna, and yes! – one of them actually quali-
fied for the competition! Sure,it barely scraped past the required size,but it counted,and at that point,we’d have taken anything short of a toy fish.
Just when we thought the drama was behind us,the boat decided to give us one final tantrum.On our way back to land,we discovered the hatches were taking in water,and no matter what we tried,we couldn’t get it out.A call went out,and Wave Dancer (congrats on your second place!) came to our rescue.To lighten the load,skipper Gert Bester was left as the only weight on board – alongside the fish – while the rest of us jumped ship.
In our mad scramble to jump ship, we may have accidentally taken all the life jackets with us.Whoops!
Gert,standing like a very calm and deeply unimpressed Forrest Gump on a slowly sinking vessel,was left to fend for himself.We quickly realised the error and tried to toss one back,only to miss and send it straight into the ocean. In the most badass move of the weekend,Gert gaffed his own life jacket out of the water like a pro.All that was missing was a slow clap and dramatic background music.
After all the near-sinkings,divine interventions,and desert detours,you’d think we’d be rewarded with a podium finish.But no – we humbly sailed into 35th place out of 38 boats.Not last,not middle – just...somewhere at the bottom of the lot.
At one point,we joked that if the fishing didn’t go our way,we’d aim to win the “Best Effort”award or maybe “Most Dramatic Exit”.We didn’t,but actually we didn’t care.We came,we fished,we survived.And,most importantly – we laughed.A lot.
From Pretoria to St Lucia,this was less of a fishing trip and more of a floating comedy special with the occasional tuna,but we loved it.
