Hi guys, first time reading up on bassing on the forum, and stumbled accross this thread.
I found/find it interesting and amusing as I lived for a number of years on a property adjoining the quarry.
The quarry belongs/used to belong to Roosema Steenwerke, one of the oldest brick making companies in Pretoria, and has been desserted for many years. Yes it is beautiful, and in some places is very deep. The wattle surrounds were cleared a year or two ago but seems to be growing again. Fish that occur are Bass, Kurper and Barbel.
Sons and I used to have a whale of a time when it was virtualy completely unknown. Caught plenty Bass 1 - 2.5 kg's.
The vagrants who live there wont make trouble on their front doorstep. Leave them alone then they will leave you alone. Still good to go in numbers of 5 or so, and of course looking out for each other. Dont leave cars and possessions unattended, thats looking for trouble because some of these guys have less than nothing. Dont put temptation in their way. Crime in the area that originated from the vagrants in the quarry was petty. The quarry area was however a good escape route for more serious housebreaking and motorcar hi-jack criminals.
Good idea to even build up a relationship with the squatters as suggested.
We just used to hop over the back fence and be right by the water.
There are plans to do a property development on the piece of ground but it has been stumbling for many years with no progress made. It can be stunning if it comes off the ground, but somehow think the stability of the shoreline/banks, and water depth is going to pose problems. Think there is a Councellor named Derek Coetzee involved. He is a very nice chap.
Be warned, because the water is so clear the fish are very skittish and not so easy to trap.
Good luck - and stywe lyne, would love to read and see the result.