Flyfishing report: Trout - Southern Drakensberg

Date of Report: Wednesday, 21st October 2026
Name: Duane Howell
Phone: 0832286707

The stillwaters are warming up as we head into summer. Insect life has increased considerably, and the fish are therefore very active. Some good catches from both club and private waters. 208 fish were caught in the 2-day UHTFC Stillwater Festival sponsored by Xplorer with the biggest a Rainbow hen of 62cm. Dams are clearing up nicely also as the rain has stayed away. This unfortunately is not good for the rivers as they already running a little low. They are very clear but also warming up a little too fast on the lower reaches. We are hoping for rain to help with that. Some good fish have been caught in the lower reaches of the uMzimkhulu which still have enough water to keep the fish happy. The lack of smaller, newer spawned fish is of some concern. And if the heat and lack of rain persists, it will not be good for the river stock.

Also visit the club website at www.uhtfc.org.za

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The uMzimkhulu at Scotsons.