13/06/2026
Good afternoon,
On 12 July 2026 there were confirmed reports and videos of possible sardine activity stretching from Mnymeni in the Eastern Cape through to Wild Coast Sun just south of Port Edward. The shoals of sardines were scattered over a distance of about 10 km.
At first lite on Saturday 13 June 2026 copper sharks were viewed breaching out of the water at Silver Beach, Port Edward. And as the sun lifted so the sardines were spotted by the tell-tale signs of gannets plummeting from the sky, terns dipping on the water and dolphin chasing fish. Seine netters had congregated at Silver Beach – Port Edward from first light expecting the sardines to make an appearance. Unfortunately, there was a fresh south westerly wind blowing and the sea was rough, large swells with a strong swell and currents in the surf zone, making spotting of the fish and laying of the nets difficult.
Numerous nets went in but only one netter managed to be successful, getting fifty crates (50) and selling at R 700,00 per crate. The sardines were large and looked very healthy.
The shoals have been steadily moving north ward and are expected to be in the Margate area in the morning. The sea is expected to settle tomorrow with a north easterly wind blowing and the swell size should drop possibly making for better netting conditions.
The shark safety gear has been adapted for the winter season, and all nets have been removed from the water with only drumlines remaining in the water at the moment. All drumlines from Margate through to Trafalgar Beach have been neutralised this morning and tomorrow morning ( Sunday 14 June 2026) the drumlines from Hibberdene to Umtentweni will be neutralised in anticipation of the sardine movement.
All beach goers please note that before entering the water consult with the lifeguards regarding bather safety and the present conditions. There is an increase of shark activity at this time of the year due to the sardine run. Your co-operation is important for the safety of beach goers.
Regards
Wayne
