Recreational fishermen cast away lockdown gloom
They must also be in possession of a valid recreational fishing permit, obtainable from the post office.
Any doubt that fishing is extremely popular on the South Coast was cast aside, if you’ll excuse the pun, yesterday.
For example, the popular Sand Spit fishing spot in Port Shepstone was packed as the good news from Government was gazetted and recreational fishing was, once again, allowed, albeit with certain expected restrictions.
Cars were parked in number on the skinny strip of land between the tar road and railway line as anglers headed to one of their favourite spots. Most likely, it was a similar situation all along the coast.
Anglers were up early at Orange Rocks in Uvongo, where some came away with shad.
With the area having such a frenzied, if brief, visit from the sardines last weekend, many anglers were more than a bit frustrated that they could not get out there and be part of it.
So, while there has been much gloom during the Covid-19 enforced lockdown, it was heartening to see so many out on the sand, all fairly widely spaced apart (of course), enjoying doing what they love.
Unfortunately, while those who fish for recreation are allowed to cast a line, charter fishermen still have to wait before they can launch again.Barbara Creecy, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, made it official on Friday, June 5.
These new directives come into effect on the date of publication in the Government Gazette (5th), and will remain in force for the duration of Alert Level 3.So, all fishing is now allowed (except for charter) during Alert Level 3.
But recreational fishermen must be in possession of a valid recreational fishing permit, obtainable from the post office, for recreational fishing under the Marine Living Resources Act, and as required by the applicable legislation for freshwater fishing.
Recreational fishing may not occur in groups, and all the laws applicable under the regulations including those relating to social distancing, health protocols, movement and gatherings shall continue to apply.
Certain timeframes for rights, permits, exemptions and licences – especially those already granted that will lapse during Level 3 – will be extended.
The gazette is also available free online at www.gpwonline.co.za.
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