If action-packed holidays are not especially relaxing for you, and a week at the spa is a little too relaxing, then join the new craze among over stressed executives and opt for the middle ground: fishing.
In times past, it was a sport enjoyed by just a small group of devoted anglers, but over the years fishing has gained the reputation of combining all the best aspects of a holiday getaway.
And with so many fish species - 300 common sea fish and about 144 common inland or freshwater fish - Southern Africa is among the few places to offer a widely diverse fishing experience.
Here are just five options that promise to be oceans of fun.
- Tuna fishing of the Cape coast
The tuna fishing grounds off the Cape coast are fabled in the angling world for their rich pickings. The tuna season runs from September to June and according to the experts, the best times are at the beginning and the end of the season. The longfin tuna and the formidable yellowfin tuna are in abundance in these waters. Last season anglers took in catches weighing from 45 kg to 90 kg, with reports of at least two being over 100 kg. A number of holiday companies offer a variety of personally designed packages, from overnight and day trips to those which incorporate other ocean experiences such as crayfishing and diving with sharks.
- Marlin fishing off the Bazaruto archipelago
Mozambique's Bazaruto archipelago has been a national park since 1971 and is ranked as the best marlin angling destination in the eastern Indian Ocean. It is the hunting ground of dedicated anglers and recreational fishermen for the giant black marlin, as well as for blue and striped marlin. The all-Africa record for black marlin is 590 kg and it was landed in these waters in November 1998. The best time for marlin fishing is from October to March.
- Shad fishing on the KwaZulu Natal coast
It is estimated that 70% of all fish caught by shore anglers in KwaZulu Natal are shad. For conservation reasons September to November, when spawning occurs, is closed season, when no fish may be caught. In open season, an angler is allowed only five shad a day, with a minimum size of 30 cm. Just about any fishing spot along the KZN coast line is good shad territory, but for the ultimate experience, join the hordes of regulars on the Durban pier at dawn.
- Tiger fishing on the Zambezi
Both the upper and the lower Zambezi are noted for excellent tiger fishing, and the tiger fish is known to be among the toughest fighters. In fact, the experts suggest that less-skilled fishers wear finger protection to prevent burn as the line is torn from the reel. Best months are between May and July, and using the fly rod is said to be much more exciting than fishing with bait or spinning rods.
- Trout and fly fishing in the KwaZulu Natal Midlands and Drakensberg
This well-watered mountain area offers some of the best fly-fishing in SA, and the fishing can be enjoyed throughout the year. KwaZulu Natal Nature Conservation Services maintain a string of nature reserves throughout the Midlands, most of which are geared towards fly-fishing for trout. The area is also noted for some of the most charming B&B establishments in the country. Most of these have access to better-than-average fly-fishing on rivers or dams.
In the summer, you can fish throughout the day, especially on the deeper lakes. In winter, when the nights can be bitterly cold, the best fishing is often at last light.
