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South African Fly Fishing & Kimberley Yellowfish Flyfishing Safaris   ORIENTATIONThe largemouth yellowish is the largest scaled fresh water fish in South Africa (comparable to the maisa of north India) while the Kimberley area is accepted as the premier destination for both largemouth and small mouth yellowfish in South Africa. Considering the fact that yellowfish are essentially only found within South Africa, further enhances Kimberley'ns exciting position. The selection of world class flyfishing on 2 local rivers and Kimberley'ns easily accessible central position within South Africa; linked to the absence of malaria and crocodiles, are favourable factors. Link this to Kimberley'ns famous diamond history and diverse authentic tourism attractions and you have a perfect combination to interest any visitor. FISHING RIVERS & VENUESThe lower Vaal and Riet Rivers at Kimberley are renowned as the unrivalled destination for stable yellowfish populations yielding world class catches of largemouth and small mouth yellowfish in pristine surrounds. It boast vast and stable populations of the more abundant small mouth yellowfish. In the past several years the popularity of yellowfish has increased steadily and so too the demand for protected waters among discerning clientele.    FISHING ON THE VAAL RIVERGeologically old, economically the most important river in South Africa serving the Gauteng economic-industrial powerhouse of Africa and diverse agriculture and mining developments, the Vaal River stretches along hundreds of kilometers. And just like diamonds yellowfish are best found at Kimberley. The River of Diamonds - the Vaal River has yielded an almost never ending supply of diamonds for more than a century to brave fortune seekers.   FISHING ON THE RIET RIVERThis small Riet River is the last tributary of the Vaal River and a perfect alternative to the larger Vaal River. The Riet River originates in the arid western Orange Free State and is dry for at least half the year. Yet important for agriculture and diamond mining, it is sustained by a large water channel from the great Orange River. Thus water levels and visibility remain near predictable and fish populations safe and stable. Situated within an ancient gorge system Schutzekama holds an aura of undiscovered waters within pristine, wild and scenic surrounds with a continued link of streams, riffles and deep pools. Fish populations are stable and seem to hold a strong population of largemouth yellowfish. FISHING ACCOMMODATION:Accommodation may also be taken in a selection of fine accommodation establishments ranging from 3 to 5 star; situated in Kimberley or close to the fishing venue. YELLOW FISHING SEASONSSummer Season OUR QUARRY - YELLOWFISH:The formidable yellow fish has few fresh water equals when taken on fly fishing tackle. The Small Mouth YellowfishThe omnivorous labeobarbus aeneus (SA 7.837 kg / 17.277 lb) is a tenacious and sleek fish. They are caught on a diverse selection of flies and patterns. Bright yellow to golden yellow in color small mouth yellowfish are active all year round and an abundant sometimes gregarious fish, though less active in the cooler months. They are successfully caught in a wide variety of habitats and from surface to bottom.    The 'nrubber mouth yellowfish is assumed to be a feeding adaptation only and in fact a small mouth yellowfish. But many years spent in their pursuit and hundreds of fish later makes me believe in the remote possibility of this being at the least a "sub species". Their characteristic dogged determination and fury makes them a worthy if not somewhat distinct adversary. The Largemouth Yellowfish:  The carnivorous labeobarbus kimberleyensis (SA 22.200 kg / 48.942 lb) remains the true symbol of power and lightning speed. There are few equals to the explosive contact of a committed largemouth strike which may result in a near full body breach of water. This can be followed by a lightning dash causing fly line to hiss as it races through the water. With large specimens you may notice the rapid approach of your backing line! Fishing for Barbel & CarpOur local rivers hold healthy populations of barbel (sharp tooth catfish) and carp. Both are great species to pursue and afford worthy challenge, especially the mighty barbel. Powerful and unpredictable, barbel grow to massive size (60kg plus) and are quite easy to catch in early summer. Opinions on barbel vary, but the fact remains - this underrated fish is a real test of skill and endurance. The reward may be the most ugly fish in local waters, but the knowledge that you have outwitted and mastered the most wily and powerful of all our freshwater fish. KIMBERLEY YELLOWFISHING & ADDED VALUE:Family and non-fishers are always welcome to self discover the safe and diverse surrounds of friendly Kimberley or may consider a tailor-made tour by associated Diamond Tours Unlimited.
  Fly fishing at Kimberley also means you can be on the water fishing within 2 hours after landing at Kimberley Airport - 30 minutes if by helicopter transfer!
FISHING TROPHIES:Possible on prior request, but the rare status of the large mouth yellow fish does require the worthy practice of catch-and-release.
Alternative routes to securing a trophy are also followed, based on measurements and photographs, towards producing a replica trophy - safe in the knowledge that rare fine specimens remains free and able to pass on those genes of greatness to future generations.  |
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