Fishing in False Bay and the Best Fishing Spots Around Fish Hoek

A fishing holiday in Cape Town is best experienced in False Bay. Fish Hoek Beach is a popular family destination with its long beach, restaurants and children's activities. Most fishermen choose the bays and villages around Fish Hoek to cast their lines.

With a name reminiscent of fish and angling, Fish Hoek is a corner of leisure and pleasure, made for family beach holidays, dripping ice cream cones and cappuccinos on deck chairs. Seaside Cottages offers the best self-catering accommodation in False Bay, a few footsteps from a long white beach. We cater for novice fishing folk, top anglers and their families and friends!

The legendary Trekkers fish for yellowtail from Fish Hoek Beach. 

From Fish Hoek and Sunny Cove to Cape Point, there are many potential fishing spots, from the shore, rocks and boats. From Fish Hoek to Kalk Bay then onward to Gordon’s Bay, fishing is deceptive, rewarding and maddening. Explore spots like Baden-Powell Road, Strandfontein, Gordon’s Bay, Simon’s Town, Cape Point, Soetwater, Misty Cliffs, and Kalk Bay Harbour Wall. Each location offers unique fishing opportunities and challenges.

Surf Fishing from Bailey's Cottage to Macassar

Start your fishing adventure along the shores from Bailey's Cottage to Macassar, renowned for surf fishing where anglers can target Kob and even the occasional sharks. Lucky anglers may hook Cobor Steenbras from Bailey’s Cottage in the lull of a strong summer southeaster or Galjoen in a cold winter mist. For a safe and social experience, drive along Baden Powell Drive and stop to chat with other fishermen before choosing a spot alongside experienced anglers who were born to fish.  

• Cape Point is a Fisherman’s Paradise

For those who seek variety, Cape Point is a treasure trove where fishing folk can catch Hottentots (hotties), Red Roman, and even spin for a Yellowtail. The rich biodiversity here offers a thrilling fishing experience especially in the summer months with more fish of varying species compared to the winter season.

Try throwing a line in Cape Point.

• Sunny Cove is a Stunning Angling Spot

Sunny Cove is a special bay beside the train station where otters play and spear fishermen find prey. It's a good spot for Galjoen, Red Roman, Hottentot and Yellowtail. Get redbait for luck then drive around to Wooley's Tidal Pool beside Clovelly Beach to find more Red Roman. 

• Winter Fishing in Clovelly

Winter might be less bountiful, but Clovelly is your go-to fishing spot during the colder months where anglers can expect to hook Galjoen when they are more prevalent. Locals love Clovelly Beach, a favourite spot for early evening dog walks or early morning swims. The warmer Indian Ocean water is ideal for beginner surfers and sea kayakers with lifeguards and shark spotters on duty.

• Kalk Bay Harbour Wall

Head to the Kalk Bay harbour wall if you’re after Stumpnose (stumpies) and the odd Kob in a popular spot that offers a mix of calm and productive fishing for all levels of angler. The bustling harbour atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a delightful fishing destination but be aware of sudden sea surges over the wall. Grab a hot fish and chips takeaway at Kalkys before you leave!

Kalk Bay Harbour and Kalkys are a Must!

• Macassar Beach

When fishing in Macassar, it’s advisable to go in a group for safety and hang out with other anglers on the stretch from Muizenberg to the Strandfontein Pavilion. Engage with local fishermen to find the best spots without encroaching on someone else’s territory and you make new fishing friends for life.

When to go Fishing in Fish Hoek, False Bay

Fishing is best in the Western Cape’s False Bay in summer. The ocean’s unique warmth, influenced by the Agulhas current, attracts a variety of fish species usually found further up the east coast. Here’s a quick guide to the dominant species you can target depending on the season:

·         Summer (October to April): yellowtail, yellowfin tuna, katonkel, kob, geelbek, and chokka.

·         Winter (May to September): snoek, yellowtail, and katonkel.

Fishing in False Bay is a challenge for sure! Book your fishing holiday at Seaside Cottages in Fish Hoek and we will guide you to the best fishing spots in Cape Town.