Mtata River

Mtata River is a river flowing through Eastern Cape, South Africa. River fishing rewards anglers who learn to read current — fish hold in the seams between fast and slow water, behind rocks and submerged logs, and at the heads and tails of pools. At Mtata River, working a lure or fly down-and-across the current usually outperforms casting straight upstream. Higher water concentrates fish; clear, low water makes them spookier.

Location

-31.9531, 29.1831 · View on OpenStreetMap →

Species at This Spot

Japanese meagreLeerfish

Fishing Techniques

• For Japanese meagre

  Target Japanese meagre during low light conditions or at night, and work lures slowly and methodically near structure.

• For Leerfish

  Target areas with strong currents or tidal flow where Leerfish hunt for baitfish, and vary retrieve speeds to find what triggers strikes.

Recommended Gear

Tackle commonly used to target the species at Mtata River.

Plan Your Trip

Anglers heading to Mtata River should sort licences and confirm seasonal regulations for Eastern Cape before the trip. A quick weather check the morning of helps too — wind direction in particular can make or break a session at a spot like Mtata River.

Nearby Spots in Eastern Cape

See all fishing spots in Eastern Cape →

Other Fishing Regions in South Africa