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Saturday’s cold snap reminded us that there actually is such a thing as winter in Durban. It also brought with it the much-anticipated global phenomenon – the annual Sardine Run.
Wayne Harrison, the KZN Sharks Board spokesperson, reported that there had been netting at Port Edward early on Saturday morning, although anglers were battling against rough sea conditions to make the catch.
“There are a lot of dolphins around, gannets and terns, even the bronze whaler sharks were breaching out of the water this morning – so the Sardine Run is officially on!”
Speaking to Time Out Durban on Monday morning, Harrison added that while it was still quiet, things were looking promising for the Sardine Run on the KZN South Coast. “I’m sitting at Umtentweni, and the surf size has dropped off completely. It’s much better conditions for netting today with the southwesterly wind getting up to about 40km/h.”
“Yesterday (Sunday), there was activity off Port Edward, St Michael’s and Shelly Beach with a small amount netted at Port Edward. Things are looking good, though, for today.”
Beachgoers are urged to exercise caution, with sharks tracking the sardine shoals at the moment. He noted: “Swimmers must bathe with discretion and check up with the lifeguards before getting into the water.”
Also read: The world’s biggest biomass migration is about to happen on the KZN South Coast
What is the Sardine Run?
Every winter, between June and July, billions of sardines migrate north along South Africa's east coast in vast silver shoals. As they move up the coastline, they attract an incredible cast of predators, turning the ocean into a real-life nature documentary.
Dolphins herd the sardines into tightly packed bait balls, Cape gannets dive-bomb from above, sharks patrol beneath the surface, and whales often join the feast. It's one of the few places on Earth where visitors can witness such a dramatic marine event from the shoreline.
For photographers, nature lovers and adventure seekers, the Sardine Run is often described as Africa's answer to the Great Migration. It's unpredictable, exciting and completely wild, which is exactly what makes it so special.
Get to the KZN South Coast
Sardine Run activity is traditionally concentrated along the KZN South Coast, making this the perfect excuse for a winter road trip. From Port Edward in the south to Port Shepstone and beyond, visitors flock to the coastline every year hoping to witness the action.
For an even closer look, local operators offer ocean safaris and diving experiences at world-famous marine destinations such as Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks, both renowned for spectacular marine life encounters.
If, like a large majority of South Africa, you’ve taken today off for an extended long weekend ahead of Youth Day, don’t miss the opportunity to catch the silver sardines in action!
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