Bass, carp and fly fishing around Bronkhorstspruit Dam
Bronkhorstspuit area offers largemouth bass, carp, barbel, kurper and even trout in winter. Public fishing is at the Bronkhorstspruit Dam, and there are private fishing venues, close to the dam.
Bronkhorstspruitdam
Bronkhorstspruit has been a well-kept secret amongst bass anglers in the know. This easily accessible dam, secure dam, is located south of the town of Bronkhorstspruit, approximately 60 km east of Pretoria. Some excellent quality largemouth bass have been caught from the dam and it’s one of those venues that can produce fish throughout the year.
Better known for its activities on the water, this dam however, boasts a bank of many kilometres. With ample space for angler and boat enthusiast alike, it is up to you to decide whether you would prefer the buzz or a private establishment on other dams.
As a catch and release program is not running, the average bass size is 1kg and catches of 2-3 kg can be made. Bronkies can be a tough dam to fish – fish can be plentiful one minute or they just disappear, when the angler has to work for his fish.
Recommended lures – white spinner baits, flukes, brush hogs and grubs / crawfish replicas that imitate the many crabs that are present.
Carp – the number one carp bait in Bronkies is yellow banana flavored dips -from floaties, to pap to flour dough. Barbel – your normal rigs and baits apply for this dam – frogs, garden worms,staal wurms and kariba worms work, but rather go for bigger baits like small fish, fish heads, chicken livers and of course the preferred bait, crabs. Largemouth Bass – the best seems to be soft baits or tube baits, not spinner or crank baits. Rapalas are likely to get stuck or lost.
Fishing from small craft is allowed, and there are two slipways at resorts around the dam. The officials are very strict about enforcing the rules and no boats are allowed without the proper safety equipment and required life jackets. So don’t forget yours if you are planning to row in your bait.
Bank Fishing is possible on much of the dam. The structure is mainly water grass and reeds; there are also a few trees around the bank as well as jetties and a submerged kraal opposite the main launch area.
Facilities: There are resorts around the dam with camping sites and self-catering chalets. Kaia Manzi Lodge and Caravan Park: 013 932 3140: Website. Bajadam Resort: Tel : 072 258 6810: Cell : 082 826 4660: Website.
Bronkhorstspruit Dam lies toward the East of Pretoria. Take the N4 toll road out. Then pass Bronhorstspruit town itself and turn right. The dam itself cannot be seen until you turn left at the Delmas sign and drive further away from the town. It’s just over an hour’s drive from Pretoria and a little longer from Johannesburg.
Bass O Mania Private Fishing
Bass O Mania is managed by Danie de Vries and Schalk Walters, both crazy about bass fishing. Here the policy of catch and release enables you to experience catches of carp of 8.5 to 16kg and bass but no trout. This venue on Rustfontein Farm, is all about serious fishing in large dams.
Strict rules, like no generators, make sure the experience is peaceful. The accommodation is simple, camping or caravan park with no power points, an ablution block and braai facilities.
If you need help, the owners are around to put you on track.
GPS Coordinates: S 25°44′. 532′ E 28°44′. 418
From Pretoria, take the Bronkhorstspruit East off-ramp and turn left onto R25 to Groblersdal. From JHB & the East Rand, go to Bapsfontein and follow the R25 to Bronkhorstspruit. For detailed directions, visit the website. Tel: Danie 082 551 8088 or Schalk 083 4155 231.
Dykefeld Country Estate, Private Fishing
Dykefeld is on the banks on the Wilge River on a tranquil farm, just 15km east of Bronkhorstspruit. The farm boasts abundant Blesbok, over 200 bird species and a pleasant setting around four fishing dams. The dams and river offer great fishing all year round, on a catch and release basis.
Winter months, from Mid-May to September, offer artificial fly fishing for the spectacular Rainbow trout. Summer months, between October and April, offer the predatory Largemouth Bass on which you can test your skills.
All Caravan and Camping sites have fresh drinking water on tap, electric hook up points, braai facilities, Kikuyu Lawns and clean ablutions.
Self-Catering Cottages are available all year round and are very popular during winter months with the fly fishing enthusiasts. Cottages are open plan, 3 beds and kitchenette.
Table Tennis, Pool Table, Swimming Pool and Tennis Court are available at the main residence.
Tel: Len Ditchfield: 082 577 9260.
From Pretoria take the N4 past Bronkhorstspruit. Take the very next off-ramp at Bossemanskraal. Turn right over the highway to Bossemanskraal and Dykefeld is 2km further, on the left with a clear signboard.
| More on the quaint town of Bronkhorstspruit | More on the Northern Gauteng area |
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