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If you haven’t yet witnessed hundreds of ski boats launching into the Indian Ocean – alongside epic fishing, beachfront fun, and live entertainment - you’ll want to mark 25 to 27 April in your diary!
The annual offshore fishing competition hosted by Durban Ski-Boat Club is back, and this year organisers are expecting the event to draw around 300 boats and 900 anglers to Durban’s beachfront for the world’s largest offshore fishing competitions.
Held at the Point Water Sports Club near Vetch’s Beach, the event has been running for more than 20 years, building a reputation as a must-attend weekend for anglers and ocean lovers.
The hunt for ‘the big one’
While competitors will be targeting a range of game fish species, the real star of the weekend is the barracuda.
This is because the angler who lands the largest barracuda could walk away with a spectacular prize: a 565 Seacat boat fitted with twin 100hp Yamaha engines on a galvanised trailer…valued at around R1 million!
There are also additional prizes worth around R350 000 for other game fish categories, as well as dedicated categories for ladies and junior anglers.
Family fun on the beachfront
Even if you’re not entering the competition, the event is still worth experiencing.
One of the most exciting moments happens right on the sand as boats launch from the beach in front of the club. Powerful CMH-sponsored vehicles tow the boats into position before they’re sent racing into the surf.
While the competition is serious business for anglers, the festival atmosphere makes it a great weekend outing for families and interested spectators.
The club shares facilities with the Durban Undersea Club at the Point Water Sports Clubhouse, located along the promenade. Just a short walk away is Vetch's Pier, a sheltered stretch of coastline that offers calmer swimming conditions thanks to protection from strong currents and heavy surf.
Families visiting the festival often combine the event with a relaxed beach day in one of Durban’s warmest and most scenic ocean spots.
Visitors can also look forward to:
- Live music throughout the weekend
- A variety of food stalls and refreshments
- A lively social area at the clubhouse
- A large beachfront space for children to play
Organisers are also hoping for a simulated rescue demonstration by the National Sea Rescue Institute together with a harbour helicopter — a big crowd pleaser!
Event details
- Dates: 25 to 27 April 2026
- Venue: Durban Ski-Boat Club
- Entries or information: www.dsbc.co.za
- Early Bird Draw: Anglers who enter before 31 March also stand a chance to win a Defy 254L freezer
Whether you’re hoping to land the winning barracuda, watch the dramatic boat launches, or simply soak up the festival vibe by the sea, this iconic Durban event promises a weekend of ocean adventure and big catches.
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