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The
healthy, clear waters of Bulshoek dam supports a thriving population of both smallmouth and largemouth
bass, with smallmouth bass closing in on the 3kg (6½ pounds) mark not being uncommon. Other
species regularly targeted include bluegill sunfish, banded tilapia (vleikurper) and carp.
Occasional catches of the much sought after Clanwilliam yellowfish (Leobarbus capensis) are still made, but unfortunately this is very rare nowadays. You do not necessarily need a boat and some excellent fishing can be had by walking the shoreline. Float-tubers will also thoroughly enjoy this setting. Clanwilliam dam, approximately 20km upstream of Bulshoek dam is well known for the excellent smallmouth it produces. The nearby Doring river regularly produces good catches of Clanwilliam yellowfish, Clanwilliam sawfin (Barbus serra) and bass for those willing to explore the area. We do not supply fishing tackle - please bring your own.
Avid
birdwathers will be in their element on the farm, with over 139
species recorded to date.
There are several large raptors on the farm, most notably Verreaux's or Black eagle (Aquila verreauxii), the Booted eagle (Aquila pennatus) and of course the African fish eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer). Very few people are not entranced by the fish eagle's distinctive call.
A
concrete slipway close to the main camp allows launching of watercraft. Light craft can easily be
put to water from the gently sloping banks in front of the camp site.
To ensure the safety of swimmers, a section of the dam is a "no-wake" area. Skiing and the like is allowed closer to the dam wall, where the dam is wider and the water deeper. All boats require a permit, which is obtainable from your host. Please note that regulations set by the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry require a skipper's license and water-worthiness certificate. You will unfortunately not be allowed to launch your craft without these documents. Safe swimming from sandy beaches right at the campsite is possible. During the summer months, when the river is flowing slowly, snorkelling is a splendid way of observing various fish species going about their way. |
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