Pork Pie
I would not be at all surprised that the checks on the boats aren't done.
We just returned from a first time fishing trip at Kosi mouth. As we did not have a boat, we opted for some surf angling. The mouth was dead to say the least. It was only after we started going to the more remote beaches that we got some fish.
Let me get to the point of my post. I found all the so-called conservation efforts quite amusing. Here are a few great ones:
- No cast netting allowed in the lakes. Ironic when the entire lake system is overcrowded with fish kraals.
- On certain beaches, only subsistence fishing is allowed. How would this conserve any fish species.
- Then, conservation officials drive with a Cruiser on Bhanga Nek beach. I was under the impression that no vehicles are allowed on South African beaches, except for a few allowed areas. The tyre track of a conservation vehicle does the same damage as any other.
I also do not understand what the entry and permit fees are used for, as I could not see any service provided by the reserve.
I have read posts on the forum on how the fishing has deteriorated over the years in the lakes. After our visit, its blatantly obvious why this is the case.
So yes, vehicles driving on beaches, unregistered boats on the lakes,"justified" fish kraals and selective fishing practices is all part of conservation.
What a joke and waste of effort!