Recurring sardines surprise Sharks Board

From all accounts it looks like the phenomenon of days gone by that Amanzimtoti might see return shoals of sardines this year.

On Wednesday morning, 15 August the SUN received unconfirmed reports of sardine netting in Durban. The KZN Sharks Board’s Mike Anderson-Reade, who undertook a flight over the KZN coastline in the morning, said they saw one net being pulled in Durban but it was mainly razor bellies.

“There was a lot of activity from Umgababa to just before Hibberdene, with lots of dolphins around Scottburgh,” he reported. “It is unusual to still see sardine activity this late in the year in current times.

In the old days there would be activity in early July, then we would have a lull, before the return shoals made an appearance in August or early September. It was almost two sardine runs in a season. This year’s activity reminds me of the old days. I’m glad we have had such a decent run this year, as it has reignited everyone’s interest, which is great.”

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The shark nets at Toti Main Beach were removed a day after they were replaced about two weeks ago and beach-goers are reminded that no swimming is permitted on any local beaches. There are only nets north of Ansteys Beach and south of Hibberdene.

Staff members are currently striking at the Sharks Board but Anderson-Reade said it has not had an adverse impact on them and they are coping with their duties.