volume 6

Featured Species:

CaracalTiger FishAfrican Fish EagleKokerboom

Diving the Red Sea

Bucket list # 1: Serengeti

Hunting Bushbuck

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Fly Fishing needs

HUNTING I FISHING I DIVING I LIVING I DESTINATIONS

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1 www.africanadventures.co.za Vol 6 2012

2 Vol 6 2012 www.africanadventures.co.za

Letter from the editor Editorial

Publisher: African Adventures Magazine (Pty) Ltd.Editor: Johan ViljoenCo-editor: Cobus SteylAdvertising: Lizel Stavast

For advertising enquiries contact:Lizel Stavast073 777 9524

For distribution detailscontact:Johan Viljoen083 469 4347

Letters to the [email protected]

Editorial [email protected]

Advertorial [email protected]

ADMINISTRATIONCobus Steyl083 644 [email protected]

Disclaimer and CopyrightWhile all precautions have been take to ensure the accuracy of advice and information given to the readers, the Proprietor, Publisher, Editor or writers cannot accept responsibility for any damages, inconvenience or injury that may arise whatsoever from incorrect information. We take every reasonable precaution to deal only with honest and ethical ad-vertisers, however neither African Adventures Magazine Pty (Ltd), nor its editor, publisher, agent or employees can be held responsible for any harm, loss or damage arising from a transaction entered into pursuant to any section in this magazine. African Adventures assumes no re-sponsibility to return graphics, unsolicited editorial or other material. All rights in unsolicited editorial letters, emails, graphics and other material will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes, and material will be subject to African Adventures unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. The publisher accepts no responsi-bility for the contented advertisements. Opinions expressed by contribu-tors are not necessarily those of African Adventures. No part of this mag-azine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

With the arrival of summer we were inspired to a couple of changes in our structures and image. Our new logo is the most obvious but there are a couple of very exciting changes around the corner.

We strive to bring the pub-lication to you, our read-ers in the most convenient form. Towards the end of the

month there will be more platforms besides the hard copy available to enjoy the magazine either on your smart phone, tablet or computer. This will enable us to reach a much larger audience and that will offer even better returns for our loyal advertisers.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Cressi for their growing involvement in the publi-cation. As of this month they are the proud sponsor of the e-mag. They have just launched the most convenient way to buy your diving equipment on-line. You can simply click on www.cressisa.co.za to access their entire range of diving equipment.I also encourage you to join our growing social network to learn more about our day to day operations and to meet the team behind the scenes. Simply follow us on Twitter @AfricanAdventrs or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/africanadventuresmagazine.

In this edition there are great reads about the Serengeti and diving the Red Sea. We also offer you the opportunity to experience it for yourself thru well reputed operators. For more information on it simply send us an email to [email protected].

Make sure to use the longer days of summer to its full extend and cherish your time in nature. Be sure to send your photos and articles and become a celebrity in your own rights.

“Family is one of nature’s masterpieces.”

Cheers

Johan Viljoen


Editorial

Publisher: African Adventures Magazine (Pty) Ltd.Editor: Johan ViljoenCo-editor: Cobus SteylAdvertising: Lizel Stavast

For advertising enquiries contact:Lizel Stavast073 777 9524

For distribution detailscontact:Johan Viljoen083 469 4347

Letters to the [email protected]

Editorial [email protected]

Advertorial [email protected]

ADMINISTRATIONCobus Steyl083 644 [email protected]


Aquaride Cressi represents the most advanced evolution of a classic structure Jacket:• The ballast integration system, “Lock Aid System”, is realised with a new “FLAT” type, highly effective, safe compact system, featuring a low profi le, to free the belly area from cumbersome impediments.• The positioning of the volumetric mass is anatomically designed and the containment cell, when infl ated, does not compress the body and improves the trim.• The control unit features a new ergonomic design, to ease grip and charging and discharging operations.• The backpiece is rigid yet light, to improve the grip on the diving cylinder.• The rear lead diving weights pockets can be removed.


Contents / Inhoud

Regulars

Letter from the editor

Letter to the editor

Events

Doorndraai Stories

Featured species:

Africa’s Golden Jewel

The Caracal

Tiger fi sh

The African Fish Eagle

Kokerboom

Resep van die maand

Lekker bek Ribbetjies

Hunting

First time hunter

Bushbuck hunting - Hunter’s

True Experiences

FISHING

Why do we fl y fi sh continues

Stickbaits and sashimi

DIVING

Diving the Red Sea

Top 10 dive sites continues

LIVING

Bucket list #1: Seregeti

East London to Sodwana via Sani

Centenary Celebration of Clarens

Kubu Eiland en Sentraal Kalahari

Park

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Clarens Centenary CelebrationDate: 19-21 October 2012

Art Route & Seminars, Food Demonstrations, Adventure Race, Book Festival, Traditional, Rock and Gospel Concerts, Rose High Tea & Much More.

For more information contact Alna Belendez-Bieler:082 334 1843 or email: [email protected]

For more information visit our website: www.clarenssa.co.za & like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ClarensCentenaryCelebration?ref=hl

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Submit your letters to [email protected]

WenbriefLetter to the editor

Baie dankie vir julle lekker lees tydsrif.

Ek was onlangs in die Kruger Wildtuin maar was baie teleurgesteld in my mede park besoekers se gedrag. Soos ons almal weet, is dit teen die wet om in die wildtuin te drink maar dit word nie deeglik gemonitor nie.

Ons was besig om na 2 jagluiperds te sit en kyk naby Satara toe n dubbel kajuit vol jong mans aangejaag kom. Een van die mans het n kettie uit sy sak gehaal en op die jagluiperd geskiet. Toe my man hom daaroor aanspreek, was dit baie duidelik dat hy onder die invloed van alkohol was.

Hy was dadelik aggresief en het kru taal gebruik. Dit was vir ons n nare ondervinding en dra n baie slegte beeld uit veral vir buitelandse toeriste.

Ons het wel die gebeurtenis gerapporteer by die Park se bestuur en hopenlik sal die maatreëls strenger toegepas word in die toekoms om sulke gedrag te verhoed.

Groete en sterkte

Antoinette – Pelgrims Rus

Hi Antoinette

Baie dankie vir jou brief, ons hoop en glo daar word aandag in die verband gegee.

Dit is sleg vir ons as Suid-Afrikaners om sulke stories te hoor en die beeld wat ons na die buitewereld stuur is onaanvaarbaar.

Ons almal weet dit kos baie geld en tyd om so nvakansie te beplan en mens wil net met goeie herinneringe daar wegry.

Groete


Letter to the editor Vir alle wapensmidwerk en jagtersbenodighedewww.magalieswapensmede.co.za

Johan 083 284 [email protected]

Grobbies 082 447 [email protected]

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After two years of laying seeds, talking, and getting two of my friends into hunting the day �nally came and we were o� to our ranch to see if we couldn’t get them onto an impala ewe or possibly a warthog.

We would be hunting with a 9.3x62 and both had been shooting really well. However we were o� to the range to double check the ri�e, again both shot extremely well.

The deal was that if we got onto an impala or warthog they would shoot, a zebra I would shoot and anything else will be a pass up. We wasted no time getting into an area where I knew we had a herd of impala as well as some young bachelors and I had also spotted a zebra herd there quite frequently. So this was proba-bly our best chance to have success either way.

We really struggled with the wind as it was swirling heavily and blew our cover twice on warthog. We were stalking slowly through an opening when I spotted our gira�e cow that

was heavily pregnant the last time I was there, and that’s when I spotted some movement be-hind her... She had calved! We sat for about 15 minutes just watching her and the calf. Hunting is not just about killing, sometimes it is really wonderful just watching nature, especially this new life and how the circle continues.

We slowly moved on and less than 50 metres later we spotted some movement and sat down. I quickly browsed with my binoculars and spotted the zebra. We spoke quick and everyone agreed that I would shoot one if the opportunity presented itself. We stalked slowly forward using all the cover we could and then I noticed the zebra moving towards us. I sat and readied myself for the shot as the zebra crossed through a path around 60 metres ahead. The �rst one however noticed us and startled it got into a slow jog and the rest followed suit. I found the stallion in my sights and waited and that’s when he stopped on the path. He was slightly quartering towards and I squeezed o� the trigger...

First Time Hunter- David-Hein Schermers

Hunting


After a perfect shot he made 30 metres before expiring. As well as being my �rst zebra it was both my friends �rst time being on a hunting trip and their hearts were probably racing as much as mine!

Well after loading the zebra light was fading fast and I made the call that we would continue in the morning for our last hunting session.

We were up before sunrise and walked from the house into a di�erent area. We were straight into the veld where my mother spot-ted some impala the previous afternoon - she also shot a good kudu bull the previous day. It wasn’t long and we ran into some really good rams that were part of a bachelor herd, but no shot was on as we were looking for an ewe.

We continued stalking through and when we eventually crossed the road the impala were doing the same, only about 500m further down. We got back into the bush and stalked directly towards them at a brisk pace. This time the wind was really with us, blowing steadi-ly into our faces. Every 50 or so metres we stopped and I would step out slowly to check on the herd. They were grazing continuously without any worries. When we reached 180 metres we had to cross the road to try get a clear shot. As an impala crossed we would cov-er a metre, one at a time. Three rams crossed without even turning their heads. Then came the ewe... Without even �inching she was onto us. We were sitting down not daring to move when she froze - extremely sharp!

We sat for a few minutes and she walked o�, but before we could get to our feet the next ewe was onto us already! Damn, they really are

sharp! I mentioned to my friend that we were around 150 to 160 metres away and that if he was comfortable he could take the shot on her but aim just slightly higher up. He slowly moved into a lying position and waited for me to give him the go ahead. I was waiting for a broadside shot for him to take. Minutes passed, shots came but no clearing.

Then one old ewe made her mistake.. I gave him the go ahead and was watching through my binoculars. BOOOM! She dropped on the spot. A perfect shot.

I gave him the chance to walk up to her alone. Once he had his time we walked forward and handshakes were in order.

And, well, here we go - a new member to our hunting community! This was really an amaz-ing hunt to me and to them. It was a small achievement for me to get some friends in-volved that are also really passionate about it and to them, well who doesn’t remember their �rst hunt?

It is important to remember that every ethical hunter, be it bow, ri�e or handgun, supports the �ne art and tradition of hunting. If each of us can introduce just one new hunter every year our community will expand more rapidly. If we are to continue for many years to come we need to involve more people in our traditions.

Hunting

Bushbuck Hunting –Hunter’s True Experiences

Hunting


Bushbuck hunting in South Africa. Two true ex-periences as told by Graeme Geldart , Profession-al Hunter and Out�tter and owner of Mkhamba Safaris , a South African hunting safari company.

As a Professional Hunter in South Africa, one is often asked which of our plains game ani-mals is the most di�cult to hunt. My answer is that they are all as di�cult as each other when hunted on foot using fair chase walk and stalk methods.

When Cape Bushbuck hunting, there are two methods you can use: The Opportunity Hunt and The Sit and Wait Hunt.

The Sit and Wait Hunt

The sit and wait method of Bushbuck hunting involves sitting at a vantage point, where the Bushbuck will break cover to graze on open grass. The time of the day that this usually occurs is in the early morning, when they are coming out to sun themselves and warm up, once the sun has risen; or at last light, when they are on the move to their feeding grounds, especially where Bushbuck exist on stock farms with plenty of green grass and pastures.In certain parts of the Southern Drakensberg Mountains where I was raised, the Bushbuck generally follow a pattern of coming out of the dense bush that they hide in, to graze on

Bushbuck Hunting –Hunter’s True Experiences-Graeme Geldart

Hunting


Hunting

We see a head and legs appear. With a shake of my head I convey to my client, not a Bushbuck, and we relax, watching a few dainty Reedbuck making their way onto the green grass to graze.

The sun is going down, and the shadows are lengthening, making visibility di� cult, leaving a dappled mottled appearance on the ground, perfect camou� age for a Bushbuck, I am think-ing, Then suddenly out of the corner of my eye, movement to the Right.

I swivel, pinning down the movement with the aid of my binoculars. There at last, a male and female Bushbuck, the male still too young, NOT a shooter – DAMN – Adrenaline still cours-ing through our veins, and another male ap-pears!! Not our day it seems, also a youngster!

What are the chances now of us seeing a third male? Despair starts to set in with the fast fad-ing light, perhaps we will need to return and try again. I signal my client that we have only two minutes of light left – When unbelievably out into the clearing, steps a large Bushbuck male about 190 yards away. In seconds I glass him, � nd him a good trophy size and instruct my client in no uncertain terms – “Shoot him, and shoot him now!” My client obliges...

As the crack of the ri� e shot booms, the Bush-buck leaps six foot into the air, and takes o� with great speed in the fading light, right back into the dense bush! Bushbuck are extremely dangerous animals when wounded, so we have to be sure where he would be. I tell the client to stay where he is so he can mark the spot for me where the Bushbuck had been

the lush green grass, just before sunset, at last light.

On this day, we decided to dedicate the after-noon to bagging ourselves a Bushbuck trophy, and so….

My client and I began our Bushbuck hunting vigil at around 15h45, and we got into a really good position. We could see a large area of bush leading onto the lush grass, but were hid-den, and the wind direction was in our favour even if it turned.

We settled in for a long wait. Suddenly a com-motion from above, we look up in time to see a Falcon chasing a Dove, a few seconds into the aerial chase there is a pu� of feathers and a victorious Falcon emerges, � ying o� with his bounty.

A cracking of twigs from the bush area has our attention snapping back to our task on hand, waiting and ready; steadying our breathing,


Hunting

standing. I run down the slope, pick up the blood trail immediately and follow it. There he is, only ten feet into the bush, lying stone dead, a perfect heart shot.

I step back out and call the client, by the time he reaches the Bushbuck and I, it is dark, the kind of pitch-black darkness you can only get out in the bush. I leave the client to admire his trophy and fetch the pick up truck. You can’t take photographs in the dark, so we need the vehicle lights to take photos, and take photos we did, what a magni� cent trophy!!

The Opportunity Hunt

Most of the time a hunter gets to experience Bushbuck hunting on a, “take your chances when you get them” – Opportunity Hunt - ba-sis. This has personally happened to me a lot. We will be on a stalk for another animal and a Cape Bushbuck gets up in front of you – you either hesitate or take your chance!

While out hunting on a typical warm, sleepy, African afternoon, we spot a group of Nyala, in a slight clearing well over a mile away, with a very good bull in the herd. A challenging stalk begins, through thick, thorny bush on very steep terrain. Creeping along, staying upwind of the animals, keeping our heads down out of the way of the vicious thorns, and with our eyes peeled on the ground for dry twigs and branches that we may step on, alerting our quarry of our presence.

We use the bush as our cover; in places it is so thick that we cannot see an arms length away ourselves. Finally we get to where the Nyala

were …… to where they are no longer!!! They too are now in the dense bush, no longer vis-ible.

With the sounds of the bush all around us, but no sounds of large antelope browsing, disap-pointed, we turn and start to walk back to-wards the main trail. We push through a thick bush area and as we approach a clearing, a really nice, and very startled Cape Bushbuck (15½ inches) jumps up in front of us.

We stop, still hidden by the thick bush. I set up the shooting sticks, both of us trying to regu-late our breathing, and tell my client to ready himself. The Bushbuck runs 50 yards or so, and stops, hesitating to cross a game trail. SHOOT NOW I silently shout in my head…..

The client steadily takes aim, squeezes the trigger and a ri� e boom splits the air. A happy client makes a clean shot, and earns himself a really nice trophy.

Bushbuck Hunting

Bushbuck is just one of the African, big game hunting experiences you can have with Mkhamba Safaris. Enquire Now for availability and pricelists.


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Exclusive DiamondCoat 2 scratch resistance high above military standards Argon/Krypton gas blend that resists thermal shock more eff ectively Models with ¼-MOA and 1 cm fi nger-click adjustments Blackened lens edges provide the best bossible contrast Dual spring erector system exerts up to 30 percent more holding force Legendary Leupold ruggedness Leupold’s Golden Ring Lifetime Guarantee 24k gold-plated ring and medallion Neoprene scope cover

L_ASA12_VX3_BX3_148x210_RZ.indd 1 29.02.12 10:31


Africa’s Golden Jewel,

The Caracal...The Caracal is known by many names in South-

ern Africa, such as the African Lynx, Desert

Lynx and Rooikat. Recent studies have pointed

towards the fact that the Caracal is not in fact

related to the Lynx in anyway, besides the char-

acteristic tufts on their ears, and is more closely

related to the Serval. The Caracal is the largest

of the small cats and the fastest too. The red-

dish brown tawny colouration of their fur and

the black pointy ears make this cat striking and

beautiful.

Unfortunately the Caracal gets blamed for many

livestock attacks, but research has proved that

most of these attacks come from this cat’s arch

rival; the Black Backed Jackal. The relationship

between these 2 carnivores is similar to the

Hyaena and Lion, they hate each other and will

often seek out each other’s o� spring as a meal.

Caracal Habits

The Caracal is nocturnal; however they do hunt

and move around during daylight hours. Cara-

cal are widely distributed in South Africa, but

not very common as they occupy large home

ranges. Their main prey includes rodents, das-

sies, hares, ground nesting birds and antelope

up to the size of a male Impala. This cat is a su-

perb hunter, especially when hunting birds. The

Caracal will stalk and ambush a Guineafowl (For

example) and will leap into the air up to 4 me-

ters high to catch the bird.

Habitat Occurrence & General Information

Caracals occur in most types of habitat except

true desert. They do favour arid woodland and

dry savannah, but occur in riverine bush as well.

Their diverse range of habitat and prey items

has helped them adapt to all sorts of areas.

These cats can weigh up to 20kgs and consume

just over half a kilo of meat on a daily basis. It is

very important to remember that these

creatures are not responsible for as many live-

stock deaths as previously thought, and in fact

it is often to a farmers advantage to have these

cats on their property as they control the ro-

dent, bird and jackal populations.

- Gareth Roocroft

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Quantum Optical System with the highest level of light transmission and optical clarity

Exclusive DiamondCoat 2 scratch resistance high above military standards Argon/Krypton gas blend that resists thermal shock more eff ectively Models with ¼-MOA and 1 cm fi nger-click adjustments Blackened lens edges provide the best bossible contrast Dual spring erector system exerts up to 30 percent more holding force Legendary Leupold ruggedness Leupold’s Golden Ring Lifetime Guarantee 24k gold-plated ring and medallion Neoprene scope cover

L_ASA12_VX3_BX3_148x210_RZ.indd 1 29.02.12 10:31


Handy Equipment (something for your birth-day wish list)

Now that we have our main tackle in place Rod, Reel, Line, Leader and Tippet.The follow-ing equipment would help make your � shing experience even better.

Fly BoxWell the most important part will be � ies (lures) they will imitate insects most of the time. Flies are made of very delicate materials and can easily be � attened if it is not kept in a � y box. When you select your � y box there are a few things to look for:• There must be place for the fl ies so they don’t get � attened• The box must seal properly. You don’t want your � ies wet before you use them, and if the � y box can � out it is a bonus. For now one � y box is su� cient, once you have built up a � y selection you will need more.

NippersIf you get to the age where your teeth don’t want to bite through the line any more a pair of nippers come in handy. Look for nippers with a little pin at the back, this pin gets used to open up the eye of the hook.

ForcepsYou will � nd when working with smaller hooks that having a pair of forceps nearby can come in handy. Get one with a lock grip and a scissor.

ThermometerDi� erent � sh species feed at di� erent water temperatures. By using a thermometer you will be able to determine where the � sh are feeding.

NetTo practise catch and release, is most � y � sher’s intention and, therefore, handling � sh is im-portant. When netting a � sh we don’t want the � sh to get hurt so we use a soft net with small holes. We will still go into detail on what the best way to practise catch and release is.

Ziplog bagSo many times I have seen wet cell phones and car remotes; if you place all your valuables in a zip log bag they will stay dry and safe.

NotebookTo keep notes of techniques that work or for that matter don’t work can help. So make sure you keep a small notebook handy to jot them down for future reference.

Fishing

- Hannes Venter continues


continuesCameraFly � shing will take you to beautiful destina-tions and you will, therefore, want to capture it. Because there is water involved it will be ad-visable to go for a waterproof camera and if it can take video clips so much the better.

ClothingLooking at clothing, one word jumps to mind, “comfortable”, let’s start with shoes. You will probably be on your feet most of the day so comfortable shoes are a must. When wading in rivers, it helps to have boots with velt soles for better grip and protection for your ankles. All clothing, especially trousers should be made from a soft, quick drying fabric to pre-vent skin irritation and cha� ng.A natural coloured long sleeved shirt will pro-tect you from the sun. It is not a bad idea to take a spare set of clothes with, you don’t want to drive home in wet clothes after a day’s � sh-ing.

When selecting a hat or cap make sure it has a broad brim or peak to keep direct sun o� your sunglasses.

Fishing

Polarised sunglasses will assist you in taking the glare o� the water so you can spot the � sh better. Sunglasses also serve as a guard to pro-tect your eyes from � ying hooks.

You will � nd that there will always be new things on the marked that would catch your eye, but for now the equipment we looked at should do the trick.

The next step is to get the line out and to get to present your � y as natural as possible, un-derstanding your tackle, and the working of it is very important, and will make the casting easier. So don’t miss the next article on casting a � y line.


Fishing

During the 3rd week of May, I was blessed to join a wonderful group of anglers on a trip to the beautiful Linene Island Lodge in central Mozambique. Nine excited anglers met up the week before the trip, and there were many dis-cussions on target species, tackle, equipment and techniques.

Our 1st day on the water, all anglers were brim-ming with excitement and the conditions ap-peared perfect. A light North-easterly breeze, � at sea conditions, clear with excellent vis-ibility, and the Skipper’s decision was made to explore some of the productive reefs and pin-nacles nearby.

On arriving at the marks, we found that Jig-ging was almost impossible! The gentle North-Easterly (it had been blowing constantly for

a few days prior to our arrival) was working against us! The o� -shore ocean current � ows from North to South and the wind had actu-ally speeded up the current to between 4kts and 5kts making drifts almost impossible to control. What was needed, was for the wind to swing to a South-Easterly, but unfortunately the forecasts indicated that this was not to be for the next 4 days!

With wind and current against us but good � sh showings on the sounder, the frustration that we couldn’t get down to them was com-pounded by the fact that the � sh also had lock jaw!

Our 1st day had been unproductive, and this forced us to rethink our strategy for the re-maining 3 days of the trip.

Of Stickbaits and Sashimi…….-Roy Skea


Fishing

Day 2 started with a new game plan. If we couldn’t get down to the �sh, we would try and get the �sh to come up to us. Everyone had popping and stickbait rods rigged for top-water action. The plan was to use the current and wind to our bene�t by drifting over the structure while blind casting both poppers and stickbaits through each drift.

It wasn’t long before a few decent “Couta” (King Mackerel) smashed our Stickbaits, fol-lowed quickly by a lovely 30kg GT. After the pictures, the �sh were successfully released and everyone continued casting with renewed vigour. We were now on the scoreboard, and things – although slow, were looking promis-ing for the days to come.

Day 3 commenced with high expectations, and ended with even better results! At sea for less than an hour, and all of a sudden there were schooling Yellow�n Tuna busting into shoals of small bait�sh that formed concentrated “bait-balls”. There were a few shoals of small YFT, and then bigger �sh in the 15-25kg class made an appearance! Our Starwalker Stickbaits were being hammered consistently. An awesome top-water experience for all! After numerous �sh, shot for shot, it didn’t take long before “chirps” about sore muscles were heard.

These �sh were very selective in what they ate. The Stars of the show – no innuendo intend-ed, were the Sinking and Floating Starwalker 160 and 180 Stickbaits in Pink and Purple! Although a number of YFT were caught us-ing Starwalkers in other colours such as Blue Sardine, Blue-Pink, Kahawai and Kohuru – but Pink and Purple were the successful colours

of the day! That evening, everyone feasted on Sashimi and sushi followed by our main course of seared Tuna! A �tting end to an amazing day!

Our �nal day did not disappoint! An intense cold front was rapidly approaching, bringing with it bad weather and rough seas. This would limit out �shing time, so it wasn’t long before we were feeding Starwalkers to more YFT, and then a good number of Yellowspot Trevally and Couta also fell victim to our lures. For a few hours, it was total mayhem with multiple hook-ups and action galore.

This also provided us with the opportunity to “blood” our new prototypes – the Darkstar Heru Bobara 100XX, and the Starwalker 110 and 140’s. These Stickbaits have performed ex-ceptionally well during testing elsewhere, and continued to do so in Mozambique with excel-lent results.

Stickbaiting is relatively new in South Africa, Stickbaits were developed and used by the Japanese, adopted and made popular by Aus-tralian and French specialist GT anglers and now, are rapidly gaining huge followings in Asia, North America, Central and South America as well as here at home!

Stickbaits are used to great e�ect, not only by the GT Popping enthusiast but also by anglers on Ski-Boats, Jet-Skis, Kayaks as well as many shore based anglers. We regularly hear of won-derful pelagic and game-�sh catches achieved by trolling Stickbaits. The occasional Bill�sh as well! Apart from GTs, Yellow�n Tuna and Couta cannot seem to leave them alone.


Fishing

For those of you throwing a stickbait there are a number of retrieve methods. A slow “walk the dog action”, a faster winding retrieve or a slow mixed with fast retrieve punctuated by pauses – so the lure is stationary in the water (imitating a panicked �sh). Try out di�erent re-trieves and see what is working on the day.

The thrill of watching an aggressive �sh attack a stickbait on the surface is di�cult to explain. It’s visual, brutal and a test of angler and equip-ment. The result invariably leaves the angler with shaking hands, sore muscles and a huge smile on his face.

A Stickbait is a very cleverly designed lure. The design, shape, length, weight, balance, and a number of other factors in�uence the swim-ming action and behaviour of each lure. This also determines the lures e�ectiveness on

hungry or aggressive �sh. All Stickbaits are not equal, with some consistently outperforming others on any given day.

From the highly sought after masterpieces, hand-crafted from exotic hard woods by Japa-nese Master Craftsmen, things of such beauty and price to take your breath away, to good quality factory produced stickbaits within reach of most anglers, there is a stickbait for you.

How do you choose a Stickbait?

Swimming Action: Quality stickbait designers rigorously test their lures to ensure a realistic swim action which will imitate �sh and attract the predators. This is arguably the most impor-tant factor in selecting a stickbait and is gener-ally absent in “cheap” copies.


Fishing

Quality Rigging: Stickbaits must withstand huge pressures when they are hit by a large �sh. Make sure that the lures are through wired with strong, thick gauge, stainless steel wire and that the terminal connections are robust. Size: There are many di�erent sizes of stickbait available. Your choice will depend on your tar-get species and the size of the bait �sh which the predators are feeding on. Be sure to match the stickbait weight to the recommended lure weight speci�ed by your rod and reel manu-facturer.

Sinking or Floating: Sinking stickbaits are sub-surface lures which will sink just below the surface. A �oating stickbait will sit on the surface. As a rule of thumb, �oating lures work best when the sea is calm and the sinking lures when there is surface chop and wind.

Colour: This is a highly debated topic. The best advice is to have a selection of colours in your lure bag. Some days certain colours will out-perform others but this can be reversed the very next day. Anglers often choose colours they feel more con�dent with and this in turn can in�uence their catch rate.

Hooks and Terminal Tackle: Use the best qual-ity split rings and hooks you can �nd. These also need to withstand the pressures of �ght-ing a large �sh.

Use the internet: There are many local and In-ternational �shing forums and blogs that dis-cuss stickbaits and their performance in great detail. Word of Mouth: Talk to other anglers who have caught �sh using stickbaits. The proof is in the catching!

These suggestions will provide su�cient infor-mation for you to make an educated purchasing decision.

Lastly, remember that you get what you pay for. “Copies” do not take the original designer’s parameters, input, materials and testing into their manufacture. This will generally result in a product that under-performs when com-pared to the original. At best you will have a lower hit rate, and at worst, your stickbait will destruct and you will lose your �sh. Think be-fore you purchase, and purchase wisely. Get those Stickbaits rigged! Big �sh are out there waiting for you……..

For more information on Jigstar Africa’s Pop-ping, Stickbaits or Jigging equipment range, please visit our website at: www.jigstarafrica.co.za


– Compiled by Johan Viljoen


Featured Specie

Tiger� sh can refer to � sh from various families, and derives from o� cial and colloquial associa-tions of these with the Asian tiger (Panthera ti-gris). However, the primary species designated by the name “tiger� sh” are African and belong to the family Alestidae.

Several species belonging to the genus Hydrocy-nus of the family Alestidae are referred to as “ti-ger� sh,” and are particularly prized as game� sh. These African � sh are found in many rivers and lakes on the continent and are � erce predators with distinctive, proportionally large teeth.

The goliath tiger� sh (Hydrocynus goliath) is among the most famous tiger� sh. It can report-edly reach an adult weight of 50 kg (110 lb), and is found in the Congo River system and Lake Tan-ganyika. It is the largest member of the Alestidae family. Another famous species, simply called the tiger� sh (Hydrocynus vittatus), is commonly found in the southernly Okavango Delta, and the Zambezi River, and also in the two biggest lakes along the Zambezi, Lake Kariba in Zambia, Zim-babwe, and Cabora Bassa in Mozambique,, the Komati river system and � nally in the Jozini dam in South Africa.

Both the goliath tiger� sh and its smaller relative bear a striking resemblance, in appearance and habits. Like the piranha, individual tiger� sh have inter-locking, razor-sharp teeth, along with stream-

lined, muscular bodies, and are widely known to be extremely aggressive and capable predators who often hunt in groups.

The tiger� sh’s fabled ferocity is complemented by a gas-� lled sac in its body that acts as a sophis-ticated sound receiver. The sac allows the tiger-� sh to detect vibrations in open water. Juveniles typically school together in large numbers and will often attack the source of any sounds or vi-brations. Adults tend to travel in smaller groups of up to four or � ve individuals, and are equally dangerous. When food is scarce or the competi-tion for food is too great, the tiger� sh may resort to cannibalism. This is particularly common in the dry season. The species has been known to attack humans, especially children wading in shallow water. Attacks can be devastating, as the animal’s aggressive group hunting tactics can quickly render victims helpless. Fatalities resulting from attacks have been recorded in several countries.

– Compiled by Johan Viljoen

Tiger Fish

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Every Tuesday from 7pm until 9pm, join us at the shop for informal fly tying and fly fishing chat.

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Tuesday 09h00—21h00 Wednesday—Friday 09h00—17h00 Saturdays & Public Holidays 09h00—13h00 Sunday & Monday (gone fishing) Closed

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Gauteng

African - Shebeen Sandton5-7 Oct

The Bierfest Montecasino – Fourways Jhb11-14 Oct

Photo & Film Expo CocoCola Dome- Jhb18-21 Oct

RMB Winex Sandton24-26 Oct

Classic Car showNasrec Expo Centre – Jhb28 Oct

Mpumalanga

Sabie Forest Fair Sabie7-9 Oct

Limpopo

Sasol Marakele Birding Break away Marakele National Park14-16 Oct

KwaZulu-Natal

Durban Homemakers ExpoDurban4-7 Oct

Zini Music FestivalMtunzini5-7 Oct

Christmas County Fair Ballito31 Oct

NOORD WES/NORTH WEST

Aardklop national arts festival Potchefstroom2-6 Oct

33 www.africanadventures.co.za Vol 6 2012 33 www.africanadventures.co.za Vol 6 2012

Breedekloof Outdoor festival Breede River valley12-14 Oct

Clanwilliam Bass ClassicClanwilliam13 Oct

Wine on the River Robertson19-21 Oct

Kamers vol geskenkeSomerset Wes 21-27 Oct

Centenary Celebration19 – 21 October

Huisgenoot Skouspel Sun City6-14 Oct

Bosman Weekend Groot Marico 19-21 Oct

Nedbank Golf Challenge Sun City29 Noc – 2 Dec

VRYSTAAT / FREE STATE

Macufe festival Bloemfontein5-14 Oct

Pioneer Voedsel en Witblits Fees Bothaville7-8 Oct

Clarens Centenary CelebrationsClarens19-21 Oct

Ficksburg Cherry Festival Ficksburg15-17 Nov

WES-KAAP/WESTERN CAPE

Rocking the Daisies 4-7 Oct - Darling


Diving

This trip leaves OR Tambo International on

a Thursday arriving in Cairo on Friday Morn-

ing. After a short stop in the airport, the trip

continues on a �ight to Hurghada where you

spend the afternoon relaxing at a beach hotel

before boarding the luxury 7 star live aboard at

16h00. After a welcome video and unpacking,

it is time to gear up on the dive deck, and this is

also the only time prior to packing up that you

handle your gear, as the very helpful crew do

everything for you, except the dive of course,

Diving the Red sea

that is your responsibility. The dive deck is

the lowest of the three decks and with easy

access to the water. This all done it is time to

relax before supper. You can stay aboard or

taste the night life of Hurghada, depending

on your energy levels.

The boat leaves the mooring the next morn-

ing after a brief passport inspection by the

authorities. After a sumptuous breakfast,

a check – out dive is then done to get your

- Gerald from Ecstasea Dive School & charters


Divingbuoyancy and any other gear related adjust-

ments done. Thereafter the relaxing, diving,

eating, sleeping is done. Not necessarily in that

order. If you get confused when the bell rings,

feel your hair, if it is dry, then it is time to dive, if

your hair is wet it is time to eat. 4 dives per day,

which includes spectacular night dives is on

the cards for the time you are on board. Luckily

Nitrox is available and thus you are not so tired

after a day’s diving.

Wrecks such as the famous Thistlegorm,

Giannis D, and reef dives both shallow and

deep are on the cards and the sea life is amaz-

ing. Visibility is very good, as far as you can see,

and the warm water (+30 Celsius) allows you

to dive until your air gets to the safety limits al-

though the temptation to stay longer niggles

your safety conscious. A lot of divers wear only

board shorts and t-shirts. Dives are conducted

o� the back of the boat or by traveling short

distances on rubber ducks or zodiacs. These

zodiacs also follow the divers and you are

picked up when you surface under your de-

ploy buoy or surface marker buoy.

An encounter with a Napoleon wrasse (Scien-

ti�c name: Cheilinus undulates) is unforget-

table as they are not shy and will come close to

you for an inspection. They grow to + 230 cm.

Huge Moray eels, large schools of goldies, trig-

ger �sh protecting their nests, dolphins, white

tip oceanic sharks are just some of the life that

can be seen on a single dive.

When you are not diving, you are relaxing

either outdoors on one of the decks or inside

in one of the lounges or if you like in your cab-- Gerald from Ecstasea Dive School & charters


Diving

in which has its own television. Clean towels

are provided for every day on board. Meals

are served in the dining room and you would

need to have a large appetite to taste every-

thing on o�er. All water, soft drinks, tea and

co�ee is free on board. Other beverages can

be purchased.

Times �ies and before you know, it is time to

pack before leaving after 8 days aboard. A day

room in a �ve star hotel is provided while you

shop or relax in Hurgada before you depart

for Cairo airport for your �ight. An overnight

�ight returns you to OR Tambo International

and you cannot wait to tell your friends about

your experience and get them to join you on

your next trip to the RED SEA.

Extend your stay by a night or two to explore

the famous historic sites in Cairo and Luxor,

or even take some time to just chill out on the

beach after your exciting week of diving!

For more information email us at

[email protected]


Diving

Last month we gave you information on

the �rst 2 dive sites on the KwaZulu Natal

East coast namely Raggie Cave and Protea

Banks.

This month we are bringing you 2 sites in the

Eastern Cape. Known for its beautiful coastal

scenery, Port Elizabeth o�ers a hub of out-

door water activities and some great dive

sites. The water temperatures are de�nitely

some of the coldest so if you own a dry suit it

is advisable to use as this will ensure a more

comfortable way to explore the marine life

on show. SAS Haerlem and Avalanche is 2 site

you de�nitely should add to your list. So grab

your gear and get wet.

SAS Haerlem

Algoa Bay,Port Elizabeth,

Eastern Cape

This dive takes to depths of about 17 up to

22 meters. A wreck site made from the navy

frigate that, in its later life, found its purpose

as an arti�cial reef perfect for divers. “The

Haerlem was built in 1958 and disarmed in

1963 and the ship was �nally scuttled in

Algoa Bay on November 30, 1987.”

She has settled 21 meters below the surface,

with her bow to the south and has created

holes, nooks and crannies for the curious

diver keen to encounter some shy sharks, a

variety of �sh and soft coral.

This interesting wreck lies close to Bell Buoy.

The wreck is home to a large number of

pajama and leopard cat sharks as well as the

shy bat�sh.

The deck has broken in two. Big cob can be

seen inside the hull. On top of the deck the

depth is about 18m average and 21m at the

stern. Due to the protection of the bay, it

makes for a very safe wreck dive.This dive is

for the advanced diver but o�ers great

visibility of up to 15 meters.

Top 10 Dive Sites- Cobus Steyl

continues


continues

DivingAvalanche Reef

Wildside, Port Elizabeth,

Eastern Cape

Avalanche Reef is a must due to its awesome

topography and spectacular colours! A

gorgeous, densely populated coral reef right

here in our awesome South Africa! Avalanche

is undoubtedly one of the best “temperate

water” reefs in South Africa. Hard and Soft

corals �ght for space on this reef with the

multitude of sea fans and sponges.

Avalanche is about 150m long and runs in

a east-west direction. This dive spot has nu-

merous walls and pinnacles rising from 28

meters up to 17 meters. The reef teems with

�sh. Game �sh are often spotted along with

the occasional shark.

Variable soft corals grow here in abundance

and give the reef a predominantly purple

colour.

Huge basket sea stars attach themselves

to the vast number of sea ferns. The elusive

horse �sh can be seen on this reef. An abun-

dance of reef �sh, like, Jan Bruin, Bronze

Bream and Red Romans use the over-hangs

for hiding places.

Both these sites are an amazing experience

that will open your eyes to the splendour of

our diverse country and �ll you with a new

sense of wonder.The Eastern Cape o�ers vari-

ous other dive spots also not to be missed.


For more information:

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The African Fish Eagle(Haliaeetus vocifer)The African Fish Eagle-(Haliaeetus vocifer)The African Fish Eagle can be seen � ying throughout the Southern Africa skies and is known by many di� erent names.

This beautiful animal, which is related to the North American Bald Eagle, is a fairly large eagle and can be identi� ed by its distinctive black, brown and white plumage. Its length varies from 63 to 75 cm. The adult has a dark body and wings, contrasted with a white head and tail.

Widespread in Southern Africa , its habitat is usually limited to rivers, lakes, pans and dams, with enough large trees for it to perch on. These eagles are also found near coastal la-goons and estuaries.

The nest consists of a large pile of sticks, 120 to 180 cm in diameter, and 30 to 60 cm thick. It is usually build in the fork of a tree, near water, but also sometimes on a cli� ledge or in a low bush on a steep slope.

The sound of the African Fish Eagle has be-

come synonymous with the sound of Africa. It has two distinct calls - in � ight or perched, the sound is something like the American Bald Eagle. When near the nest, its call is more of a ‘quock’ sound - the female is a little shriller and less mellow than the male.

The African Fish Eagle is usually seen in pairs, whether it is inside or outside of their breeding season that stretches from March to Septem-ber. They evenly share the kills made by either between the two of them.

As its name suggests, its main diet consists mostly of � sh. They are able to catch � sh up to 1 kg in weight and in some exceptional cir-cumstances up to 3 kg. Fish weighing over two and a half kilograms are not carried in � ight, but planed along surface of water to shore. In some areas it also feeds o� � amingos and other water birds. In some rare circumstances it will even feed o� dassies, monkeys, monitor lizards, frogs, terrapins and insects.

Hunting takes place from where the eagle is perched and rarely while it is soaring in the sky.

- Compiled by Johan Viljoen

Featured Specie


Living

Stooping at �sh, African Fish Eagle will catch their pray with their feet, usually within 15 cm of the water surface. They may also submerge at times. The African Fish Eagle is classi�ed as a klep-toparasite. This means that it steals prey from other birds, for example Goliath Herons, which are known to lose a percentage of their catch to Fish Eagles. They may also raid colonies of nesting waterbirds for young and eggs. They spend more time perched than �ying, usually sitting high in a tall tree from where they have a good view of the stretch of river, lakeshore or coastline. The African Fish Eagle does not need a big area to feed o�. Near a lake with an abundant food supply, a pair may require less than a square mile of water to �nd enough food, whereas next to a small river, they may require a stretch of 25 km or more.

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Bucket list # 1: Serengeti safari

Living

There are many excellent travel destinations in

East Africa, but none more so than Tanzania.

Here the wide plains of the Serengeti, the lush

pastures of the Ngorongoro Crater, the snow-

capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro and the

mythical isle of Zanzibar will entice travelers to

return time and again.

The lush Mahogany treed jungle in the north-

eastern highlands blankets the foothills of the

sheer rock walls of the Great Rift Valley which

in turn forms an impressive backdrop to the

great lakes of Victoria, Manyara and Tangan-

yika. The Great Rift is a 3,000-mile geological

fault stretching from Syria in Asia to Mozam-

bique in lower East Africa and o� ers the visitor

stunning scenery of Africa’s highest mountains

and deepest lakes.

To the west of Kilimanjaro are the Serengeti

plains, well-known for their huge concentra-

tions of migratory animals. This mosaic of

grassland, swamps, riverine forests and savan-

nah habitats is host to 70 larger mammals, of

which more than a million herbivores partici-

pate in the circular migration, spurred on by

the need for greener pastures. In excess of

a million wildebeest (gnu), accompanied by

200,000 zebras congregate on the Southern

Serengeti plains from December until March

to start “the biggest show on earth”. Slowly,

but surely they move in a westerly and north-

erly direction, and come July to October they

are confronted by the Grumetti and Mara Riv-

ers, dramatic setting for the well-known river

crossings. In these rivers huge crocodiles lay

in wait. The large herds stay in the Masai Mara

Nature Reserve, until the smell of the new rains

- Wikus Theron


Living

in the south draw them back to their breeding

grounds in the Serengeti. The challenge is to

be at the right place at the right time, to en-

joy the awesome sight of savannah grassland,

speckled with thousands upon thousands of

animals. The precise timing of the migration

depends on the rain and it is an extremely un-

predictable and spontaneous natural event.

The Serengeti’s vast endless plains are sprin-

kled with Acacia trees, with kopjes (granite

outcroppings) and ant mounds dotted all

over, which serve as vantage points for preda-

tors. The vast, � at central plains, made fertile

by the ashes of the prehistoric volcanoes, are

characterized by huge skies and shimmering

heat hazes, but also with delicate wild � owers

blooming after the rains.

The jewel in the crown of the greater Serengeti

area is the Ngorongoro crater. Wildlife viewing

and photography in the caldera is something

special, with the crater walls forming a per-

fect background to the images of animals and

nature alike. Accommodation is outside the

crater and a number of lodges on its rim o� er

spectacular views of the crater � oor below.

Regarded by many as the eighth wonder of

the world, the Ngorongoro Crater, a volcanic

caldera which forms a natural enclosure of a

mere 260 kilometres, is home to the highest

concentration of wildlife on the planet. It sits

high on a mountain, above the escarpment of

the Great Rift Zone. The crater rim is at 7 500

feet, surrounded by clouds that break every

so often to provide jaw-dropping views into

the crater, and down its outside walls. It feels

like driving on top of the world! On the crater

� oor, the rich pastures and permanent water

supply support a resident population of some

25 000 ungulates, along with, reputedly, the

highest density of predators in Africa. Since

most of the crater � oor is grassland, grazing

animals predominate: gnu (wildebeest), zebra,

Grant and Thompsons gazelle, bu� alo, eland,

hartebeest and black rhino. During our visits

to the crater � oor, seeing a lion kill is a likely

occurrence.

Away from the popular Serengeti lies the small-

er wildlife enclave of Lake Manyara. This area

is renowned for its diverse terrain: from the

shallow alkaline waters of “the loveliest lake in

Africa”, home to thousands of pink Flamingos,

to groundwater forests, acacia woodlands and

open � oodplains. The sheer rock walls of the

Great Rift Valley serve as spectacular scenery.

Manyara National Park, described by Heming-

way in the “Green Hills of Africa”, lies within the

Great Rift Valley, and spreads out in a shallow

depression at 1 000 meters above sea level. Its

terrain contains a rich mosaic of di� erent habi-

tats, which include groundwater forest, the

acacia woodlands, extensive marshlands and

of course the lake itself.

Lake Manyara supports a cornucopia of wild-


Living

life, including bu� alo, elephant, gira� e, im-

pala, hippo and even tree-climbing lion! Most

importantly, however, are the 380 species of

birdlife: spoonbill, stork, teal, pelican, hornbill

and cormorant, by the thousand. Like most

Rift Valley lakes, the water is alkaline, which at-

tracts vast � ocks of greater and lesser � amin-

gos, which form a pink cloud against the silver

background of water. The best time to observe

these birds is in the late afternoon and early

morning.

A trip to the national parks and conservation

areas of Tanzania is an experience of a lifetime

and an essential item on the bucket list of any

nature lover. For the true wilderness

enthusiast, Tanzania has become more popu-

lar than Kenya, in the past regarded as the true

haven of unspoilt nature. The Tanzanian wild-

life areas have become more accessible for

tourists, with many three- to � ve-star lodges

and tented camps spread across the region.

Although these establishments cater for di� er-

ent budgets, they have one thing in common

- they a� ord the visitor the opportunity to en-

joy some of Africa’s most stunning scenery and

wildlife.

For the opportunity to visit the Serengeti

see our Serengeti special at www.wildsun-

setsafaris.co.za or email your enquiry to

[email protected].


Living

East London to Sodwana via Sani - Sniper


Living

Ever since I started diving I have heard about

the amazing reefs at Sodwana, but never got

round to dive there. After a braai one evening

and talking about diving at Sodwana we came

to the conclusion that if we don’t put a date

aside in the future to do this it will probably

never happen. So in the following week a date

was picked for our trip. It was set for the 4th of

August.

We left Sunrise On Sea at 4am on a bright

moonlit morning and after a quick stop at

Chintsa to pick up the aqua cat we were well

under way on our adventure. Our vehicle of

choice was of course a Landrover Defender

110 D/C belonging to Peter Minni AKA Cap-

tain. Wesly Bahllman (Bosman), Peter’s dad

( Mr Minni) and I (Sniper) made up the rest of

the crew.

Our �rst stop was on top of the impressive Lan-

geni pass between Mtatha and Ugie. With the

magni�cent views from the top came a gale

force North Westerly which kept our breakfast

stop short. At this stage we were a bit worried

about Bosman since he has not said much

since we left, but discovered later on the trip

that he is not much of a morning talker and

only started getting vocal after seeing the

beautiful dams in the Underberg.

We got to Sani in the early afternoon but

stopped close to the top for pictures of the

frozen waterfalls. A picture still fresh in my

mind was of a woman’s face at the waterfalls

after we told her that the septic tanks over�ow

runs into that stream, she didn’t say anything

but we knew she must have ate some of the

ice.

Sani top was cold and windy but the amazing

view made up for it. After some time outside

we found warmth in the pub where we had a

few drinks, and Bosman was almost knocked

out by two gluwine’s, but after half an hour

he was back but did not get close to the bar.

The morning was bitterly cold and windy and

the whole team was glad to leave the moun-

taintop for the warmer foothills on the way to

Himevile. The road to Sodwana was long and

after a lot of hours in the Landy, we were �nally

there.

Monday we explored the area and stocked up

on our supplies. We spent the afternoon �sh-


ing with the aqua cat but with no luck. I tried

to paraglide on the beach but the wind did

not play along. Our �rst dive was on Tuesday

morning and I could not believe the amount

of reef �sh swimming all around us and the

visibility was amazing. Bosman was like a little

kid in a toy store and swam around like the

energizer bunny. His air lasted only about 30

min and he had to wait on the boat for us. I fed

the �sh at the safety stop and was green when

we got back to the beach. The second dive was

just as amazing as the �rst and this time we

organised a 15l cylinder for Bosman.

Wednesday morning we �shed of the boat

and got a few bonnies. On the way back Rob, a

skipper at Amoray, told us about a Manta Ray

in the area and we went looking for it. After a

few minutes we found it and got the opportu-

nity to swim with it, what an experience! We

spent the afternoon relaxing at Lake Sibayi

and Captain got to use his new awning.

Thursday was pretty much the same as

Wednesday with the exception of seeing a

few whales and swimming with two dolphins,

which did not stick around for long since they

had babies in the pod. The afternoon was

again spent at the lake where Jen cooked

some �sh we caught the morning. Yum yum!

The aqua cat was brave enough to take Bez’s

go pro camera up close to a massive crock bak-

ing in the sun, but came speeding back when

the crock slipped into the water, well done

Bosman!

Friday saw us diving again and we saw two

huge moray eels and �sh swimming upside

down under the overhangs. The afternoon

wind was perfect and I had a very nice �ight

over the bay. We ended the day and our week

at Sodwana with a braai and some beers

Cheers!

I would like to thank the following people

for making this adventure possible: Captain

thanks for wheels to get us there, we all en-

joyed the landy. Bez and Jen for hosting us at

Blue eyed Inn and for the boat and �shing.

Mr Minni thanks for the sandwiches, winner

on each boat trip. And thanks for all the laughs

Bosman.

O and for those who were wondering, aqua cat

is a radio controlled bait boat.

Over and out “Sniper”

Living


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400cc UTVR62 500.00Water cooled, 4-stroke, 1-cylinderMax. power – 17kw(22.78hp)/7500rpmMax. torque – 23N.m/6500rpmL x W x H – 2670mm x 1340mm x 1870mmGround Clearance – 300mm

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400cc UTVR62 500.00Water cooled, 4-stroke, 1-cylinderMax. power – 17kw(22.78hp)/7500rpmMax. torque – 23N.m/6500rpmL x W x H – 2670mm x 1340mm x 1870mmGround Clearance – 300mmGround Clearance – 300mm


Hierdie kenmerkende alwyn boom het gladde takke, wat bedek is met ‘n dun lagie wit poeier wat jou help om die warm son se strale weg te straal. Die bas op die stam vorm pragtige goudbruin skubbe, maar pasop, die kante van hierdie skubbe is vlymskerp. Die kroon is dikwels dig as ‘n gevolg van die herhaalde-lik gevurkte takke, vandaar die naam van die spesie dichotoma afkomstig. Die blou-groen blare gedra op terminale rosette, maar in jong plante word die blare ingedeel in vertikale rye.Heldergeel blomme word gedra van Junie-Julie.

Die jong blomknoppe wat geëet kan word en het ‘n soortgelyke voorkoms en smaak te aspersies.Suiker bekkies word in winter maande na die blomme gelok waar hulle op die nektar voed. Aloe dichotoma is ‘n uiters ge-harde boom wat ‘n ouderdom van meer as 80 jaar en ‘n hoogte van ongeveer 7 meter bereik. Hierdie spesie is ‘n opvallende komponent van die droë dele algemeen bekend as Na-makwaland en Boesmanland. Dit kom voor in rotsagtige gebiede, van naby Nieuwoudtville noordwaarts in Namibië en ooswaarts na Up-ington en Kenhardt.

‘N algemene verskynsel in hierdie bome is die groot gemeenskaplike neste van wewers wat

leef en broei in hul duisende. Hier is hulle eiers en kleintjies veilig teen roofdiere soos slange en jakkalse.

Vir eeue hol Boesmans die takke uit wat ge-bruik word as n koker om hul pyle in te dra. Groot stamme van dooie bome is ook uitge-hol en gebruik as ‘n natuurlike yskas. Water, vleis en groente daarin gestoor. Die vese-lagtige weefsel van die stam het ‘n koel e� ek as lug deur dit, ‘n sogenaamde natuurlike yskas.

Die Koker boom is baie aanpasbaar en prom-inent in tuine regoor Suid-Afrika en ander lande met ‘n soortgelyke klimaat. In natter dele van Suid-Afrika, soos die Wes-Kaap, is hierdie plante in staat is om te oorleef mist daar voorsiening gemaak vir deeglike drein-ering om verrotting te voorkom. ‘n Posisie in ‘n warm en droë rots tuin is die beste as ‘n mens wil hierdie aalwyn in jou tuin wil groei.Plante kan gekweek word uit sade geplant in die herfs (Maart, April) in n bak van growwe riviersand. Stuggies kan ook gebruik word vir voortplanting. Stuggies moet gedroog word vir ten minste 3 weke voor dit uitgepland word in riviersand. Maar dit is ‘n moeilike al-ternatiewe en sukses is nie altyd gewaarborg nie.

Kokerboom

Featured Specie

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High tea at high tide….

Kyk, as iet so hoogaan beveel is deur Elize Steyl, soos die high tea in die Oyster Box Hotel, is ons almal game. Dit is een van ons vooruitsigte op ons 4 dae ekskursie na die Noordkus van Kwa-zulu Natal.

So arriveer ons toe vanaf Gauteng in Umshlan-gavir n 4 dae girls break away. Soos ons mans dit genie om te gaan jag, is dit egter nou ons beurt om weg te breek.

Die see is rof en onstuimig en baie raserig,hier reg voor ons woonstel. Die wind klits. As gevolg van die weer voor uit sig vir die volgende paar dae, beplan Corrien en Elize ons kort vakansie noukeurig.

Ons besluit om die goeie sonskyn dae, nie in die luukse van die Oyster Box Hotel in Umshlanga-deur te bring nie, maar wel in die vreugde van Corrien se private sjampanjepoel by Sheffield. Dis die einste plekkie waar haar geliefde hondjie se as gestrooi is in die see… ons besluit op hier-die liefelike sonskyn dag, gaan ons GROEN.

Ons lees so ewe die lewens redders se bord op die strand,om te kyk wanneer is dit hoog water by Umshlanga .Die feit dat die water temperatu-ur bitter laagis ,traak Corrien min, en sy verlei vir

my en Charlotte met n bottel sjampanje, na die koue skuimende water van Sheffield.

As gevolg van hierdie besluit van Corrien, word ons high tea by die Oyster Box vanuit die Merc, geskuif na die volgende dag. Dit is nou nadat Elize baie noukeurig na vrae gedoen het omtrent wat die high tea by die Oyster Box,ons alles kan aanbied…? Sy was so verlei deur die heerlike vooruitsig, dat sy ons almal oortuig dat high tea teen R185 00 n kop is die moeite werd…?

Maar so word die bespreking vir die high tea eg-ter eers geskuif na die volgende dag, indien die weer nie so lekker is nie.

Corrien se sjampanje poel roep, maar ek en Charlotte is baie huiwerig toe ons sien hoe rof die see is en wil dit nie nader waag nie. Die bot-tel sjampanje bly toe , en ons inspirasie vir die koue water bly weg.

Corrien vind toe egter n baie vlak poel vol geel dik skuim, wat die rowwe see opgedis het en dit is toe haar ideale spot vir n baldadige foto shoot waar sy baljaar in die skuimbolle. Ten einderaad pop sy toe maar die sjampanje in n poging om vir my en Charlotte in die see in telok. Baie teesinnig moes ons instem om ons boude in die koue water neerte sit, met die skuim wat heerlik

– Lynette HaasbroekAfrican Adventure in die Noordkus.

Living


Living

oor ons tuimel. Die volgende dag lunch ons in n tropiese woud omring met die pragtige plan-te groei van die Noorkus van Natal. Toe ons n draai gaan loop na die heerlike ete, kom n lo-cal Natal engel, met n wit rok, oorons pad, en sy oortuig ons dat, die high tea by die Beverly Hills, is eintlik die antwoord.

By die Oyster Box gaan jy eintlik vir die “cocktail hour” met wyn en n kaasbord EN LIVE MUSIC…!

Die gevolg hiervan , is toe weereens verskui-wing van onsbespreking vir die high tea event by die Oyster Box Hotel. Teen die tyd is Elize Steyl al n bekende naam by die Oyster Box, en so skakel Corrien die keer vanuit die Merco-mons bespreking te kanselleer. Kyk dit is mos n vrou se goeie reg om van plan te verander. Al wat die beleefde Oyster Box ontvangs dame kan sê,” Is dankie dat u ons laat weet het…?”

So arriveer ons 4 Kwartette, dressed for high tea success, by die Beverly Hills virons high tea event. Ons staar uit oor die see en die kristal-helder swembad .Dit is egter slegs ons en geen gaste te sien nie.

Ek en Charlotte settle vir n wyntjie, voordat ons moet hoor dit kos R50 vir n glasie wit wyn.!

Charlotte besluit om die oomblik vas te vang met haar kamera, en terwyl sy daarmee besig is, besluit Corrien om haar kans waar te neem, om Charlotte se persentjie vir haar toe tedraai… netjies rol sy die pienk, strawberry spermagti-gevissie toe in die wit gestyfde servet..

Toe Sweet Charlotte later ewe onskuldig haar servet oop vou, rol die groot mens speelding in haar skoot. Syhet egter geen idee wat hierdie vreemde obskure pienk voorwerpie is, wat nou eintlik vir haarbedoel is nie….?

What is this…?!” wil Charlotte by die verd-waasde kelnerin weet. Die getrainde Beverly Hills kelnerin hou egter haar waardigheid en maak of sy geen idee het wat die vreemde voorwerpie is waarmee Charlotte so beduie nie…!?

Ongelukkig begin Charlotte aan haarself ver-duidelik hoekom sy nou juis die uitverkore een is wat hierdie persentjie in haar skoot moet kry…?

“What is this…?”“is it a toy?”

“Or is it part of an Anti- Ads campaign conference, that is taking place here?”

Dit wil Charlotte by die verdwaasde Beverly Hills high tea dame weet.

Charlotte kom nie eers agter sy het navlotEngels oor gelsaan nie.!

Na slegs een suigie aan die koppie van die pi-enk aarbei liquer, knip Charlotte die spermkoppie toe in haarhandsak.

“Dit is vir Louis!”Kondig Charlotte aan.Ja ,hierdie is n persentjievir Louis…!”‘Neem sommer dan nou ook n sexy foto van my en dan MMS ons dit vir Louis…!”

Corrien is ok nie links nie en stel vir Charlotte op vir n foto, met n verleidelike glimlag,… net vir Louis.

So geniet ons toe, n baie deftige vooraf bespre-ekte , goed beplande high tea in die 5 ster Bev-erly Hills Hotel.

n High tea, in “happy hour”, SONDER tee.!!


Living

Make sure not to miss the Clarens Centenary Celebration taking place from 19-21 October 2012. The Town Square will form the heart-beat of the festivities with a Castle Lager Beer Tent, Wine Tasting Tent with 11 of our � nest wine farms namely Beyerskloof, Cederberg, De Grendel, Diemersdal, Haute Cabriere, Ken Forrester, Landzicht, Meerlust, Mulderbosch, Saronsberg, Simonsig and Tokara; Food Demonstrations featuring popular entertainer, Andre Schwartz, Wellness Area and Destination Tent.

Bring the kids to learn circus tricks, stilt walk-ing, juggling and rope walking or to experience a petting zoo and other interactive games. There will be storytelling, a jumping castle, traditional local activities and child minders.

The Art Route will o� er the ideal opportunity to explore Clarens and particularly the Clarens Art Route. Clarens is an artist’s haven with many well known artists living in an around the village. With art being one of the main income generators of this popular tourist attraction. A gallery route will take visitors on a creative journey through 14 existing art galleries. Follow the directional route signage to ensure you don’t miss out on any of these wonderful galleries.

A Photography Exhibition with the theme: 100 Reasons to Love the Jewel of the Free State will showcase local talent and the beauty that the region has to o� er.

A FREE Traditional Music Concert will take place on the soccer grounds in Kgubetswana,

Centenary Celebrations


Living

Bohemian Rhapsody, Killer Queen and many more.

Famous literary icons, like Jo-Ann Richards, Peter Badcock-Walters, Richard Beynon, Anné Mariè du Preez Bezdrob, Alexander Strachan, Carmel Rickard, Lanny Lannie Mokwena and Alexander Strachan will take part in the Book Festival at local book shop, Bibliophile in an Authors’ Showcase as well as a literary feast. Engage with our � nest writers over a sumptuous dinner at the Phatt Chef Restau-rant. Chef Patron, Simon Kerr promises great food, superb wines, and interesting conversa-tion courtesy of our illustrious authors: R195 per person. BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL. RSVP BY 5 OCTOBER TO Simon Kerr, [email protected] or telephone 082 469 3832

Hot Air Balloon Rides will take place over the scenic village. Trips will include a 45 to 60 min-ute hot air balloon � ight with refreshments and lots of excitement.

For more details about us please visit our website: www.hotairballooningsa.co.za

For more information on the Centenary Celebration go to www.clarenssa.co.za or like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ClarensCentenaryCelebration

All tickets are available from Computicket and Clarens Destinations 058 256 1542 / 1622 / www.computicket.com

Friday 19 October 2012. Three musicians, Apollo Ntabanyane, King Vitus and Afrocen-tric will perform on-stage from 17:30 – 22:30. Everyone is welcome!

The Classical Soiree will take place at Bramble-berry Restaurant at The Clarens Golf Estate where a variety of local quali� ed musicians will be showcasing their talent, complemented by wine and dinner.

Theatre lovers can look forward to sterling performances by Elzabe Zietsman as well as

Mafeking Road based on the book by Herman Charles Bosman.

Hop-on, hop-o� , dedicated taxis will trans-port guests to the heart of Kgubetswana for its authentic Tavern Tour. This activity o� ers one a unique experience, � lled with tradi-tional entertainment and real Kgubetswana hospitality. Tour starts from next to Clarens Municipality - Duration: 3 hours per tour at a cost of R50.

The main Rock event on the Square Satur-day night will be well known South African entertainer and musician, Joseph Clark. Local talent, Rooibaardt and Violet Somedays will be the pre-performing support acts. During the Clarens Centenary Celebration Joseph Clark and his band will take you on a roller coaster ride with his powerful rendi-tion of some of Queen’s greatest rock songs and breathtaking ballads, like We Will Rock You, Another One Bites The Dust, We Are The Champions, Under Pressure, Radio Ga-Ga,


Hartelike dank gaan uit aan Fanie en Ronel wat hulle ervaring met ons deel. Ons verwel-kom enige bedraes van lesers se avonture op die donker kontinent

Ons kom heelwat later as beplan by Groblers-brug grenspos as gevolg van baie swaar reën en swak sig. Dis reeds lank na donker toe ons by Kwa Nokeng aankom, waar ons kamp opslaan en oornag.

Na ‘n lekker garage-ontbyt maak ons die voer-tuie vol en vertrek na die Khama Renosterpark, waar die groep mekaar sal ontmoet. Die kam-peerplekke is pragtig en skaduryk onder die groot Mokongwa-bome. Ons ry voor sonson-dergang om wild te gaan kyk en ‘n sundowner in die veld te geniet. Hier leer almal mekaar ken en ons kuier sommer die eerste aand heer-lik saam.

Die volgende oggend vertrek ons na Kubu Ei-

land. Die teerpad na Tshwagong is baie mooi en ons kon redelik vorder.

Ons vul voorraade, brandhout en brandstof aan en pak die pad aan wat nou ‘n bietjie moei-liker raak. Dit het die vorige week redelik baie gereën en ons ry kort-kort deur waterpoele. Ons ry deur digte bosse waar daar verskeie moontlike paaie is wat almal na dieselfde be-stemming lei – ‘n mens kies maar die een wat die maklikste lyk, maar ook nie altyd noodwen-dig die beste keuse was nie.

Uiteindelik bereik ons die Sua-pan (deel van die Makgadikgadi-panne), en die pad lyk nou baie makliker. Ons besef egter nie wat nog voorlê nie. Ons vertoef ‘n wyle op die panne om foto’s te neem en middagete te geniet. Die soutpanne lê indrukwekkend en groot voor ons, en ons kan nie ophou kyk en afneem nie. Na kilometers se lekker ry op die panne bereik ons ‘n vlak meer wat gevorm het as gevolg van

Kubu Eiland enSentraal Kalahari Park - Fanie & Ronel

Living


die hewige reën, met die modderwater om-trent 40cm diep. Ons moes daardeur! Geluk-kig het die Nissan Patrol se sterk masjien die nodige doen, en het ons die Conqueror Com-mander veldkaravaan met gemak gesleep. Dit het kort-kort gelyk of die Commander by die Patrol wil verbygaan soos dié agter die voer-tuig gegly het. Dit was ‘n baie moelike rit ge-wees, veral omdat die modder só erg opgespat het teen die voorruit dat die veërs nie kon byhou nie, en ons moes met tye op gevoel ry. Die Patrol en Commander was vol modder en smerig, maar wat ‘n wonderlike ondervinding.Uiteindelik bereik ons Kubu Eiland – ‘n stukkie rotsland met verwronge kremetarte, omring deur die soutpanne so ver as die oog kan sien. Alles om ons is plat, kaal en vaalwit; tot die hor-ison wat in die verte verdwyn in lugspieëlings. Die stilte raas in ‘n mens se ore. Die kampeer-plekke is uiters primitief – daar is absoluut niks behalwe ‘n longdrop nie. En dis warm!

Nadat ons kamp opgeslaan het en die meeste van die modder van die karavaan probeer ver-wyder het, is ons terug panne toe om ‘n won-derlike sonsondergang te ervaar, weer foto’s te

neem en ‘n sundowner te geniet. Gelukkig het die Conqueror ‘n warm water stort en ‘n hand-ige wasbak waar ons die lywe kon skoon kry. Hier het ons drie dae gebly en die rustigheid van niks geniet. Weer eens het Mafunayne gesorg vir vyf-ster etes wat met styl en �air bedien is.

By Kubu ontmoet ons ook die Duitser wat al-leen met sy 125cc scrambler vir 3 maande deur Afrika ry – hy doen dit elke jaar. Hy ry alles wat hy nodig het saam in twee “saalsakke”. Die aand toe hy by ons kom kuier het, het hy tot sy eie drankie saamgebring – heeltemaal self-versorgend. Hy vertel ons dat hy volgende jaar Australië gaan aanpak, maar dat hy dit ernstig betwyfel of Ausieland hom gaan beïndruk na Afrika…

Die terugtog na Tshwagong was weer omtrent 10 km gly-gly deur die modder. Hier het ons die voertuie laat skoonspuit; die modder-aanpaksel was so dik dat die werkers dit met grawe moes optel en met ‘n kruiwa wegry. Voort na die Sentraal Kalahari Park.By Orapa het ons weer voorrade en brandstof

Living


Living

aan die gewoel van die stad. Ons het verskeie paaie en rigtings in die park ingery, redelik baie diere gesien en sommer net die skoon-heid, rustigheid en goeie geselskap geniet. ‘n Hoogtepunt was die groep jagluiperde wat sommer so om ons ‘n trop springbokke bek-ruip het. Ons het hulle vir ‘n ruk dopgehou, maar ongelukkig nie die vangs beleef nie. Sal moet terug gaan daarvoor.

Teen hierdie tyd kuier die groep mense al soos ou vriende saam, en sit ons saans ure om die vuur. Daar word heerlik geëet, baie gesels, grappe gemaak en foto’s vergelyk. ‘n Mens rek-en jy het heeltemaal te veel afgeneem, maar later sou jy wonder waarom jy nie meer foto’s geneem het nie!

Die Commander het sonder moeite of prob-leme die 4000km agter die Patrol aangehard-loop. Wat ‘n vreugde om met sulke

staatmakers te toer.

Fanie en Ronel

aangevul, en gery na Mopipi waar ons wegge-draai het op ‘n tweespoor pad vir 40 km na die Mangana Hek. Die nodige dokumentasie en permitte is voltooi, en ons het nog 40km gery na Deception Valley waar ons vir die vol-gende vier dae gekamp het. Hierdie kamp is ook primitief, maar luuks teen Kubu, want hier is ook ‘n emmer-stort, en die longdrop het so-waar ‘n “propper” toiletsitplek! Die afsonder-ing, rustigheid en asemrowende mooi savan-nah-veld is net ‘n onbeskry�ike lekkerte.

Die handige kombuis wat voor uit die kara-vaan uitskuif was baie gerie�ik, al het ons nie self kosgemaak nie. Die 60 liter SnoMaster ys-kas het sy werk uiters goed gedoen, en ons het gedurende die 2-weke rit altyd koue drankies en baie ys gehad. Dié yskas was ‘n wonderlike aanwins en met die versengende hitte was ons baie dankbaar vir sy uitstekende werkver-rigting.

Die kuier in Sentraal Kalahari Park was wonder-lik gewees. ‘n Mens is só deel van die veld en die natuur hier, dat almal heerlik kon ontsnap


Living

Central reservations: 012 428 9111Golden Gate Switchboard: 058 255 1000

Functions and conferences: [email protected]

www.sanparks.org

Golden GateHighlands National Park


Not an event, but an experience!

If you can dream it, we can make it reality!

[email protected] - 011 608 4086 - 071 3526341

The Country venue of choice

St Fort WeddingsIn Clarens


Cnr Main and Van Zyl Streets

Clarens

Tel: 058 256 1864Open Mon – Sat from

9:00 – 18:00

OLD STONEBOTTLE STORE

ClarensAffordable luxury B&B

accommodation

Wild Horses Mountain Lodge offers luxury, five star accommodation in the Northern Drakensberg at the Sterkfontein Nature Reserve. With its panoramic views of the majestic Platberg Mountain and the vast Sterkfontein Dam, the lodge is a masterpiece of architectural design in local sandstone.

It offers affordable luxury accommodation, exquisite cuisine and a variety of activities centred around the dam and the abundant wildlife of the reserve and mountains.

Contact: Cell: 083 64 000 24

Tel: 058 622 7000Email: [email protected]

Website: www.wildhorses.co.za

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Documents

editor editorialpublisher

johan viljoencoeditor

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lizel stavast073

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