Jonkershoek Flyfishing

Nestled high in the picturesque Jonkershoek valley and protected from the Cape's howling winds the flyfishery dams offer superb flyfishing for both the experienced and the novice flyfisher. The flyfishery operates in the dams of the oldest trout hatchery in Southern Africa (Started in 1892).

There are nine trout dams available with six on the main site and three wild dams, for the more experienced flyfisher, on the border of the Jonkershoek Nature reserve. The dams are well stocked with rainbow trout as well as the elusive and sought after White Fish (Barbus andrewi) one of South Africa’s famous yellowfish species renown for their fighting abilities. There is also a river section where one can catch wild rainbow trout. Booking for the river is essential.

The best fishing time is over winter when the trout are performing at their peak, though the Summer offers anglers an excellent opportunity to sight fish for the elusive Cape Whitefish (witvis). The dams are also stocked with large Mozambican Tilapia which are very active in Summer and a great target species on fly.

Equipment can be hired from reception and advice and tuition are freely available. Fly casting and fishing clinics are run on a regular basis and private tuition can also be arranged. Flyfishing is also an excellent team building activity and we do run flyfishing clinics for corporate groups.

For the non-flyfisher there is an aquarium, restaurant, picnicking, bird watching, mountain biking and wine tasting at any of the valley’s prestigious wine estates.

During the breeding season visitors may take a tour of the old hatchery facilities and watch the young trout fry as they emerge from their tiny eggs.