A holiday is always a good idea, whether it be a quick weekend getaway or an extended holiday for your June or December holidays. And if you’re looking to escape to somewhere with majestic mountains, meandering rivers and a plethora of wildlife to be viewed, then the Overberg is definitely for you. Made up of a collection of charismatic villages and larger busy towns, the Overberg offers up a variety of temporary homes that will suit your style and your budget.
One of the more popular choices when holidaying in the Overberg is definitely the seaside town of Hermanus. With a thriving business sector and a long list of things to do for young and old, this busy town is the ideal choice for a great family holiday. While the ladies can treat themselves to some retail therapy and indulge in the arts, the young ones can enjoy a variety of exciting outdoor adventures and the men can unwind with a round of golf or cast off a line into the abundant waters of Walker Bay.
The beautiful blue waters of Walker Bay and its abundance of fish is what gave origin to the town, that and the presence of the Southern Right Whales that seek comfort in the warmer, protected bays of the coast here. But although Hermanus now owes its economy to other endeavours, it’s not to say that fishing along its coast is not still enjoyed by many who stay and visit here throughout the year. The beautiful rocky outcrops along the Bay make for the perfect angling spots form which to cast your line and also enjoy the views across the South Atlantic. With so much going on you are likely to spot folks kayaking past, surfers catching a wave or even a Southern Right on the horizon.
The curving coast of Hermanus offers up a variety of fishing spots from the cliffs near town to the beaches of Hawston and Onrus to the stretch of white sandy beach at Die Plaat and neighbouring Lagoon between Hermanus and Gansbaai. Mostly enjoyed from the shore, the Hermanus Lagoon can be accessed by boat and especially offers a great catch when the spring rains opens the Lagoon to the ocean and fish enter to feed upon on the prawn beds. In the event that you might have forgotten your rod and reel, not to worry! The fish and tackle shops in Hermanus can provide you with all the needed hooks, bait, line and even some expert advice to get you sorted.
Image courtesy of The Big Time
Those looking for a real thrill can make use of the fishing charters in Hermanus and head out to sea to battle it out with the big one. Here you can rely on the experience and knowledge of these fishing professionals to guide you in taking home a catch worthy of a trophy. Fishing trips can be half or full day excursions and include either tuna or reef fishing. All bait and tackle is provided (although you are welcome to bring your own) along with drinks and snacks.
Known for its great fishing and seafood it comes as no surprise that the species found in these southern waters include Yellowtail, Geelbek, Red Roman, Garrick, Silverfish, Cob, Galjoen, Shad, White Steenbras, Red Stumpnose, Elf and John Brown. The winter months also brings in a good fight as the Snoek move closer to the coast for shore anglers. Popular bait to lure in the species in the area is prawns and worms.
Before heading out for the day, be sure to stop by the local post office or tourism bureau for details on permits needed and tides to ensure a full day of relaxation ahead.
So whether you’re aiming for angling off the shore or desperate for a deep sea excursion, Hermanus offers a variety of fishing spots and professionals to help you out. With the best advice, gear and spots available in Hermanus, you’re sure to get hooked!
