Chasing Crayfish: A Guide to Seasonal Angling Bases in Sandbaai and Onrus

Chasing Crayfish: A Guide to Seasonal Angling Bases in Sandbaai and Onrus

Every summer, a specific electricity fills the air along the Whale Coast. It isn’t just the arrival of the southern right whales or the holiday buzz—it is the opening of the West Coast Rock Lobster (crayfish) season. Known locally as "Red Gold," these prized crustaceans turn the rocky shorelines of Sandbaai and Onrus into a hub of activity for local anglers and visiting divers alike.

Finding the right fishing accommodation in Hermanus is the first step toward a successful haul. Whether you are a seasoned free-diver or a shore angler looking to land a Galjoen while the pots soak, the coastal stretch between Sandbaai and Onrus offers some of the most accessible and rewarding marine territory in the Western Cape.

Key Details & Official Regulations

Before you head to the water, it is vital to understand that the crayfish season is strictly regulated to protect our marine heritage. You must have a valid recreational permit.

  • Official Permit Portal: Apply for your Recreational Fishing Permit here
  • Bag Limit: 4 crayfish per person, per day.
  • Size Limit: Minimum 80 mm carapace length.
  • Operating Hours: Fishing and diving are only permitted between 08:00 and 16:00 on designated days.

The 2025/2026 Crayfish Season Dates

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has limited the recreational effort to 12 specific days. Plan your stay around these dates to ensure you don't miss out:

  • December 2025: 20, 21, 27, and 28
  • January 2026: 3, 4, 24, 25, and 31
  • February 2026: 1
  • March 2026: 21 and 22

Prime Angling and Diving Spots: Sandbaai to Onrus

The Coastal Path

The stretch between Sandbaai Beach and Onrus Beach is legendary among locals. This winding path offers direct access to deep gullies and rocky ledges. While divers look for crayfish in the kelp forests just offshore, shore anglers can target Hottentot (Seabream), Blacktail, and the elusive Galjoen.

Onrus River Mouth and Ledges

Onrus is famous for its "Hotties." The rocky outcrops near the river mouth are perfect for a relaxed afternoon cast. The water here can be temperamental, so always check the swell before committing to a ledge.

Sandbaai Rock Pools

For families, Sandbaai’s rock pools and smaller coves offer a safer environment for children to learn the basics of shore fishing while the more adventurous members of the group head further out into the surf.

Perfect Fishing Accommodation in Hermanus

To make the most of the short 08:00–16:00 window, staying within walking distance of the shore is a game-changer. Here are our top recommendations for your angling base:

1. 30 Branderdraai (Hermanus Central / Sandbaai Border)

This is the ultimate choice for serious fishing groups. Located in a quiet crescent with no road between the house and the sea, 30 Branderdraai offers direct access to the coastal path leading to both Sandbaai and Onrus beaches.

  • Why it’s perfect: It features an inside fireplace suitable for a post-fishing braai and can sleep up to 10 people, making it ideal for a large crew.
  • Book your stay at 30 Branderdraai.

2. Pashasha Beach House (Sandbaai)

Deriving its name from the Xhosa word for "all good," Pashasha Beach House is a breezy, luxury retreat just a minute's walk from the beach.

  • Why it’s perfect: After a cold morning in the Atlantic, you can warm up in the wood-fired hot tub. Its proximity to rock pools makes it excellent for families who want to mix fishing with beach relaxation.
  • Book your stay at Pashasha Beach House.

3. 16 on Artrim (Onrus)

For a more intimate getaway, 16 on Artrim is a charming garden flat located in the heart of Onrus.

  • Why it’s perfect: It is well-positioned for those who want to explore both the Onrus shoreline and the nearby Hermanus New Harbour. It is a quiet, comfortable base for a solo angler or a couple.
  • Book your stay at 16 on Artrim.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

  • What to Bring: A high-quality wetsuit (the water is notoriously cold), a sturdy ring net if you aren't diving, and a measuring gauge—the 80mm rule is non-negotiable.
  • Safety First: Never fish or dive alone. The Atlantic swells can be unpredictable, especially around the Sandbaai ledges.
  • Logistics: If you are traveling from outside the Western Cape, book cheap flights to Cape Town and enjoy the scenic 90-minute drive to Hermanus.

Conclusion

Whether you’re chasing the thrill of the crayfish dive or simply want to cast a line into the turquoise waters of Walker Bay, the Sandbaai-Onrus coastline provides a world-class backdrop. By choosing the right fishing accommodation in Hermanus, you ensure that the "Red Gold" is never more than a few steps away from your front door. Tight lines and happy diving!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the crayfish dates for Hermanus in 2025/2026?

The season is open on specific days in December 2025, January 2026, and early February/March 2026. Key dates include Dec 20, 21, 27, 28 and Jan 3, 4, 24, 25, 31.

Where can I buy a fishing permit in Hermanus?

You can purchase permits at the local South African Post Office or conveniently online through the DFFE e-permitting portal.

Is scuba diving allowed for crayfish?

No. Regulations strictly prohibit the use of artificial breathing apparatus (scuba) for catching crayfish. You must be free-diving (snorkeling) or using a ring net from the shore or a boat.

What is the best bait for shore angling in Sandbaai?

For reef species like Hottentot and Blacktail, red bait and white mussel are the most effective. If you are targeting Galjoen, look for fresh white mussel or "wonder worm."