Fly Fishing

Riparian owners on the Karnmelkspruit are members of the Karnmelkspruit Fly Fishing Association and they apply the same set of fly fishing rules and rates throughout. Only a few riparian owners on the Kraai river (Lady Grey area) allow fishing and they apply the same set of rules and rates as the Karnmelkspruit Fly Fishing Association.

Fly fishing only with recognised fly fishing equipment.  Fly fishing is a sport and any sport has its rules.  Other methods of fishing are not allowed at all.

Barbless hooks only   No spinners  No bait

Catch and Release only.  However, under certain conditions, fish population, size, season etc. the riparian owner may allow you to take one or two fish for the pan.  Large fish, 1.5 pounds and more, are genetically superior and must always be released.

Trespassing is a serious offence.  You may not walk or drive around on a farm without permission and you may not fish in the river of a riparian owner without a permit.  If you have a permit to fish, stay within the boundaries pointed out or “beat” allocated to you.  You can imagine that all hell breaks loose when a keen angler who has booked well in advance, driven far to get to the river and paid for a specific beat stumbles upon somebody else fishing on his beat.

Never drive through farm lands.  Stick to roads or existing vehicle tracks.

Leave gates as you found them.  This golden rule prevails and you could never get into trouble if you leave it as found.  You would not know if there is a very expensive bull that needs to be kept in or sheep that need to graze on both sides.

No littering. You are privileged to be on private property and fish in a pristine mountain stream. Give it the respect it deserves and keep it that way.  Take your beer bottles, caps, cans, cigarette butts and plastic bags with you when you leave. Bear in mind that the riparian owners work together and they inform each other of unwanted anglers.

Do not make any fires.  If you want to braai, discuss it with the riparian owner prior to your fishing trip and you will be advised accordingly.

No Pets.  Pets are unpredictable.  For the safety of your pets and to prevent any pet related incidents and irritations, leave your pets at home.