Sardines at Umzumbe flats.
Image: Supplied
The annual Sardine Run continues to gather pace along KwaZulu-Natal's South Coast, with fresh nettings reported at Pumula and Umzumbe, while larger concentrations of sardines remain further south.
According to South African Protea angler Jace Govender, sardine activity has been increasing steadily, although Durban beachfront residents and visitors may still have to wait a few weeks before witnessing the spectacle firsthand.
"A shoal of sardine was netted at Pumula and one at the Umzumbe area, on the Umzumbe flats," said Govender.
"There is still a lot of sardine at Ramsgate and Southbroom. A few shoals have made their way towards Umkomaas. These are still the pilot shoals."
Govender explained that while the early arrivals are encouraging, the main body of sardines was still concentrated further south, particularly along the Transkei coastline.
"There is a lot more sardine in the Transkei," he said.
Sardines at Umzumbe.
Image: Supplied
Sardines at Umzumbe.
Image: Supplied
For Durban beachfront enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the famous migration, Govender believes the main shoals are still some distance away.
"As for sardines on the Durban beachfront, you should be able to expect them in the next two weeks or so," he said.
"When the main shoals come, and they will definitely make their way into the Durban beachfront, these sardines will go north towards Umhlanga before turning into the cooler waters on the Durban Basin."
The movement pattern is typical of the annual migration, which sees sardines travel northward along South Africa's east coast.
While Durban may still be waiting for the headline event, Govender emphasised that significant action was already occurring further south.
Reports indicate that sardines were sold for R1200 a crate and R50 a dozen.