Fishing

Deep-sea fishing is a popular activity, as there's almost always something biting. Summer (November–May) brings game fish like barracuda, marlin, sailfish, and dorado, whereas winter is better for the bottom fishes, like mussel crackers, salmon, and rock cod.

Casea Charters. Trips on a ski boat depart from Granny's Pool, in front of Umhlanga's Cabana Beach. Various trips are available, ranging from one to six hours. The popular three- and four-hour trips are priced per person at R500 and R600 respectively; otherwise you need to get a group together and hire the whole boat ($1,250–R4,500 depending on the length of time you want). Fish for dorado, yellowfin tuna, king and queen mackerel, garrick, rock cod, salmon, and other species. Bait and equipment are supplied, but bring your own food and drinks. You can keep the fish you catch. Booking is essential, and you need to obtain a fishing license (from any post office) in advance of the trip. 031/561–7381; 083/690–2511; www.caseacharters.co.za.

Lynski Charters. Deep-sea fishing trips for barracuda, sailfish, marlin, shark, and reef fish head out from Durban's harbor at 5 am in a 30-foot game-fish boat, returning at 2 pm. The cost is R5500 for up to six people fishing for a day trip, although the boat can take 12 people. The price includes equipment, tackle and bait. Bring your own refreshments. 031/539–3338; 082/445–6600; www.lynski.com.

Swissroll Charters. Deep-sea fishing trips depart from the harbor. For R6500, skipper-owner Ralph Nussbaumer takes a maximum of six people for a day on his 30-foot boat with a cabin. Sometimes he sets up a gas cooker and fries some fresh fish. 031/467–2185; 082/451–6567; www.swissroll.co.za.