Doornkop Wildlife – On the Fly

Why Become a Shareholder at Doornkop Fish & Wildlife Resort?

Nestled in the scenic heart of Mpumalanga, Doornkop Fish & Wildlife Resort offers a unique blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and outdoor adventure. For those seeking not just a getaway, but an investment in a lifestyle filled with fishing, wildlife, and family moments, becoming a shareholder at Doornkop is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

A Shareholder’s Story: Meet Eddie Crocker

To better understand the value of being a shareholder at Doornkop, we spoke to Mr. Eddie Crocker, a long-time shareholder since 2005. His journey with Doornkop is a testament to the resort’s lasting appeal and the meaningful experiences it offers.

Why Doornkop?

For Eddie, Doornkop was a natural fit after selling his farm. “We were looking for a place with fishing, bush, and animals,” he shared. The resort’s diverse range of outdoor activities and wildlife immediately drew him in. With its serene dams, abundant game, and bushveld landscape, Doornkop offers an idyllic escape from city life.

Family, Friends, and Memories

Doornkop isn’t just about the natural environment; it’s about the memories you create with loved ones. According to Eddie, some of his fondest moments have been family gatherings, such as celebrating his 80th birthday and spending Christmas and Easter together. Whether it’s fishing by the dam or enjoying a braai under the stars, the resort is a place to connect and create lasting memories.

What Sets Doornkop Apart?

Eddie highlights that one of the things that sets Doornkop apart is its accessibility. “The travelling time from Johannesburg is a big plus,” he says. Located just a few hours from the city, the resort is close enough for a quick getaway, yet remote enough to provide complete relaxation.

Making a Difference as a Shareholder

As a shareholder, you’re not just investing in property; you’re becoming part of a community that cares about maintaining and enhancing the resort. Eddie has taken a personal role in improving his unit over the years, even serving on the board. “I’ve taken time to assist with maintenance of Unit 17 and added two stainless steel braais,” he mentioned.

Would He Recommend It? Absolutely.

Eddie is such a firm believer in Doornkop that he’s already encouraged his daughter to invest. “I advised my daughter to invest in a week in Unit 25, and I’ve taken an additional week in Unit 16,” he said. This is more than just a place to visit. It’s a long-term investment in relaxation and quality time with family.

The Wildlife and Natural Beauty

From game drives to nature walks, Doornkop offers shareholders a chance to immerse themselves in the wild. “All animals and the walks, especially the waterfall, always catch my attention,” he shares. The resort’s untouched landscapes and diverse wildlife provide endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

Looking to the Future

As Doornkop continues to grow, shareholders like Eddie are excited for what’s to come. He looks forward to further use of the resort by his family and friends and hopes for improved amenities like better internet access. The resort is continually evolving, offering more reasons to invest for future enjoyment.

Why You Should Become a Shareholder

Investing in Doornkop means investing in more than just a vacation spot. It’s about owning a piece of paradise that you can return to year after year. Whether you’re drawn to the fishing, the wildlife, or the community spirit, Doornkop offers an experience that’s hard to find anywhere else. Just ask Eddie.

Ready to make unforgettable memories and secure a lifetime of adventure at Doornkop?

Explore the benefits of becoming a shareholder today.

The Importance of Catch and Release at Doornkop: Preserving Fish and Fun for Future Generations

Doornkop Fish and Wildlife Reserve is a paradise for anglers and nature enthusiasts, but it’s also a place deeply committed to conservation. At the core of Doornkop’s approach to fishing is its strict catch-and-release policy, designed to protect fish populations while ensuring that visitors can enjoy world-class fishing in the reserve’s pristine waters. For anyone passionate about the environment or the art of angling, embracing this practice is key to maintaining the reserve’s rich biodiversity.

Why Catch and Release Matters at Doornkop

Doornkop’s policy is all about ensuring that future generations of anglers can enjoy the same exciting experiences. The reserve is home to species like rainbow trout, brown trout, yellowfish, and bass. Bass is not indigenous and predatory to young trout and yellowfish. If a bass is caught, please remove it from the dams to protect our fish populations. While yellowfish is especially susceptible to overfishing, the catch-and-release method helps keep populations healthy, ensuring there’s always a robust number of fish to challenge anglers. This rule for catching yellowfish applies to all rivers and dams, yellowfish must be released. We do stock rainbow and brown trout during the cooler months from April to September. Catch and keep is permitted for rainbow and brown trout at designated dams at R200-00 per kg. If a fish is caught to be released and the fish dies, the R 200-00 per kg cost will still apply. It is imperative to ensure that any fish caught must be properly handled.

How to Practice Proper Catch and Release

Proper technique is crucial when it comes to releasing fish, as it significantly impacts the fish’s chances of survival. Here’s how you can do your part:

Wet and wash your hands in the dam first: Before touching the fish, make sure your hands are thoroughly wet and clean. This prevents the removal of the fish’s protective slime, which shields it from infections and other harm. If possible, do not take the fish from the net inside the water when removing the hook as it increases its chances of survival.
Restrain Gently: Turn the fish upside down to calm it. This reduces the fish’s stress and makes it easier to remove the hook without causing injury.
Careful Hook Removal: Remove the hook carefully to avoid tearing the fish’s mouth. Barbless hooks always apply, as they’re easier to remove and cause less damage. If the hook is swallowed deep inside the fish, do not attempt to remove it. Rather cut the line as close as possible to the hook, it will dislodge by itself in time without damaging organs.
Reviving the Fish: After removing the hook, hold the fish upright in the water. Gently move it backward and forward, allowing water to flow over its gills to oxygenate them. Depending on how long the fish was fighting, some time might pass before it is strong enough to take off. This step is crucial to ensure the fish is fully revived before it swims away.
Monitor the Fish’s Response: If the fish doesn’t revive and repeatedly turns belly-up, it means it’s too stressed to survive. In this case, take it to the cleaning station to be weighed and recorded on your permit for payment per kg.

By following these steps, you’re helping ensure the fish’s health and contributing to the long-term sustainability of the reserve’s fish populations.

Key Rules to Remember at Doornkop

The reserve has specific guidelines in place to protect its aquatic ecosystem and ensure a great fishing experience for all visitors. In addition to the catch-and-release policy for Dams 1-4 & 9-10, here are some other important rules to keep in mind:

No Quotas in Catch-and-Release Dams: Unlike other areas, there are no quotas when fishing in these specific dams. The R200/kg fee applies for any fish kept.
Bass Must Not Be Returned to the Water: Bass can wreak havoc on the balance of the ecosystem, so any bass caught should be kept or handed over to the Bailiffs. Under no circumstances should they be returned to the water.
Handling Fish Carefully: Anglers should always prioritize the health of the fish by using the recommended techniques for catch and release, reducing stress and injury.

Why the Catch and Release Policy Benefits Everyone

Catch and release is not just a rule, it’s a philosophy that ensures that fishing at Doornkop remains a sustainable and enjoyable activity. By releasing fish back into the water, you’re allowing them to grow and breed, contributing to a cycle that keeps the ecosystem thriving. In return, you’ll experience the thrill of catching larger, stronger fish on your future visits.

It also supports a broader effort of conservation that goes beyond Doornkop, setting a standard for sustainable fishing practices throughout South Africa. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, adopting this method is a way to engage with nature responsibly while still enjoying all the excitement fishing has to offer.

5 Reasons to Visit Doornkop in Spring

Spring is a season of renewal, and there’s no better place to experience the beauty of this time of year than at Doornkop Fish and Wildlife Reserve. Nestled in the Mpumalanga Highveld, Doornkop comes alive in spring, offering South Africans a vibrant and unique escape into nature. Here are five reasons why Doornkop should be your top choice for a spring getaway:

Blooming Flora and Lush Landscapes

As winter fades, Doornkop’s landscape transforms into a lush wonderland. The Highveld is famous for its wildflowers, which bloom in vibrant colours during spring, painting the rolling hills and valleys with shades of pink, yellow, and purple. The reserve’s natural beauty, coupled with the fresh spring air, makes it a perfect spot for nature walks, family picnics, or simply relaxing amidst the blossoming flora. For photographers and nature lovers, it’s a feast for the eyes.

Abundant Wildlife

Spring is a bustling time for wildlife at Doornkop. The warm weather and fresh vegetation draw animals out of hiding, making game viewing particularly rewarding. Whether you’re on a self-drive safari or a guided walk, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of animals, from grazing antelope to playful vervet monkeys. Birdwatchers will also be thrilled by the return of migratory birds and the vibrant birdlife that thrives in the reserve.

Excellent Fishing Opportunities

Doornkop is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, especially in spring. The reserve’s dams and rivers, stocked with yellowfish and trout, offer some of the best fly fishing in the region. With the warmer waters of spring, the fish are more active, providing the perfect conditions for a rewarding day of angling. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or just trying your hand at it, Doornkop’s peaceful fishing spots are ideal for unwinding and enjoying the tranquil beauty of the outdoors.

Perfect Weather for Outdoor Activities

Spring brings mild and pleasant weather to the Highveld, with warm days and cool nights. It’s the perfect time to enjoy all the outdoor activities that Doornkop has to offer. From hiking through the scenic trails to canoeing on the dams, or even just relaxing on the deck of your chalet with a braai, the spring climate allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the South African bushveld.

A Quiet Retreat from the City

Spring at Doornkop is a time of peace and tranquility, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life. The reserve offers a serene and private escape, with fewer visitors compared to the summer months. It’s an ideal destination for South Africans looking to recharge their batteries, enjoy some quality time with loved ones, or even just take a solo retreat in the heart of nature. The peace and quiet of Doornkop in spring is unmatched, making it a true hidden gem.

Don’t miss out on the beauty and tranquility that springtime brings to this special destination—plan your visit to Doornkop this spring and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Understanding the Bats at Doornkop

Nestled alongside the Swartspruit River in the heart of Mpumalanga, Doornkop Fish and Wildlife Reserve offers a unique experience, inviting guests to fully engage with nature. While our Resort offers the perfect escape with all its splendour, it’s important to note that our peaceful surroundings are also home to, amongst many other creatures, a vibrant population of bats. Here are some good to know facts about bats before your next visit to Doornkop:

Why Bats Are Important

Bats play a critical role in many environments around the world, including here at Doornkop. Often overlooked, they are important for preserving the health of ecosystems by:

Pest Control: Most bats feed on insects and can consume thousands of pests each night, helping to keep bug populations in check.
Pollination: Bats are also important pollinators for many plants, some of which are crucial for local agriculture and natural plant regeneration.

Types of Bats at Doornkop

Doornkop is home to a variety of bat species. While specific species vary, many are typical of the South African region and include both fruit bats and insectivorous bats. These species are nocturnal and are most active during the night when they hunt and feed.

Our Commitment to Conservation

Bats are protected under local wildlife conservation laws due to their status as crucial environmental contributors and increasingly threatened populations. At Doornkop, we are committed to the conservation of these fascinating animals and their habitats.

Bats and Health

Bats are often misunderstood, leading to fears about disease. While it’s true that bats can carry viruses, the risk of transmission to humans is extremely low, especially if guests do not attempt to handle or disturb the bats.

What to Do If You Encounter a Bat

Keep Your Distance: Always observe bats from a distance. Avoid touching or disturbing bats, as they are wild animals.
Secure Food: Keep food items securely stored and cover any fruit bowls so as not to attract fruit bats.
Report Distress: If you find a bat in distress, do not attempt to handle it yourself. Please contact our Reserve staff for assistance.

Fun Facts About Bats

Bats can live for over 20 years.
They are the only mammals naturally capable of sustained flight.
Bats use echolocation to navigate and find food in the dark.

How You Can Help

Be Bat Aware: Understanding and respect for bats’ beneficial roles can help reduce fear.

Support Bat Conservation: Consider supporting bat conservation efforts that help protect these important animals and their habitats.

We trust that these fascinating insights into the world of bats have provided you with valuable knowledge, enhancing your anticipation for your upcoming visit to Doornkop. Whether you’re exploring the tranquil surroundings of our Resort or venturing into the wilderness, may these newfound insights enrich your experience and deepen your connection with nature.