A FISHING PERMIT (TO BE OBTAINED FROM DOORKOP RECEPTION) MUST BE IN THE POSSESSION OF ALL FISHERFOLK WHILST FISHING AT THE DAMS AND RIVERS OF DOORNKOP FISH & WILDLIFE RESERVE

The dam Bailiff reserves the right to check all fishing equipment and to ensure that guests adhere to the rules. He is required to report any misconduct to management immediately. Your support in this matter will be appreciated. If you are not familiar with fly fishing, and would like to learn the Dam Bailiffs can assist you.

1. Children 12 and younger must be under adult supervision and must record their catches on an adults catch card/permit. Please ensure all guests and children are aware and obey the fishing rules.
2. Dam 9 & 10 ONLY. - Only persons 12 and under are permitted to fish with FLY tackle on a catch and release basis only. NO adults are allowed to fish. An adult must be in supervision and also be in possession of a fishing permit.
3. All fish caught and kept have to be weighed and cleaned at the cleaning station. Do not gut the fish in the dams or before weighing. All fish kept will be charged at R160 per kg (1,2kg and less) & R200 per kg (Above 1,2kg).
4. Please record all fish caught both returned and kept on reverse side of the fishing permit in order to facilitate the stocking program. Please hand in your completed catch card at reception before your departure. All catch cards from the same unit need to be handed in.
5. Only recognised fly fishing equipment may be used on all dams. No other fishing tackle, spinners or bait is allowed. Failure to comply will result in the fishing equipment being confiscated and kept by security until departure. R500 fine will be issued.
6. Feeding of fish is prohibited.
7. Only barbless or de-barbed flies are to be used. Flies are available to purchase at Reception.
8. Fishing in the Swartwaterspruit and the Komati River is on a catch and release basis only - A river fishing permit is required.
9. All Yellowfish must be released.
10. When releasing your fish, wet your hands thoroughly before touching the fish. Restrain it by gently turning the fish upside down and carefully remove the hook without tearing the mouth. Ensure the fish is revived before letting it go by holding the fish upright in the water and move it gently backwards and forwards to oxygenate the gills. If the fish does not revive (repeatedly turns “belly up”) keep it and take it to cleaning station to be weighed and record on your permit.
11. Please do not litter – use the bins provided at all dams.
12. Swimming is prohibited in all dams.
13. Float tubes are only permitted on Dam 1 (Trophy Dam) & Komati River. (Max 4 on Dam 1)
14. Wading is not allowed in any of the dams.
15. Fishing is only permitted from dawn to dusk.
16. Dams 1-4 & 9-10 are strictly catch and release. Any fish kept will be charged at R250/kg, quotas do not apply. Applicable to all fisherman.
17. All Bass caught can be kept at no charge or given to Bailiffs. DO NOT return Bass into dams or rivers.
18. Breaking ANY rules will result in a spot fine of R500.
19. Failure to produce a permit when asked will result in a 3 month ban of all fishing activities.
20. Being abusive to or not complying with Bailiffs instructions will result in a 3 month ban of all fishing activities.

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