With the waters buzzing and rods bending all winter long, we thought it was the perfect time to tackle a topic that's often overlooked: ethics in angling. Joining me is the ever-insightful John Otto, a respected voice in our fishing community, as we unpack the unspoken rules every angler should follow—from respecting catch limits and handling fish humanely, to cleaning up after yourself and showing camaraderie on the rocks.
This episode isn’t about finger-pointing; it’s about awareness, respect, and protecting our sport for future generations. So tune in as we say it like it is: don’t be that guy. Listen on ECR website
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16:33
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16:33
Fishing Apps: Your secret weapon
In this episode, we chat to Ray Thompson as we explore five essential fishing apps that are revolutionising the way modern anglers approach their next trip. Featuring Barometric Pressure Forecast, Wind Guru, Wavenet, Windfinder, and the Marine Fish Guide for South Africa, the podcast breaks down how each app delivers critical real-time data, like wind speed, swell height, barometric pressure, and fish identification. We deep dive into the value of combining multiple apps to stay ahead of rapidly changing conditions, plan smarter trips, and fish more effectively. Packed with practical tips, the conversation reveals how technology is transforming fishing from a guessing game into a data-driven adventure. Listen on ECR website
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13:20
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13:20
The Science of Sardines
In the latest episode, we explore the Sardine Run through a scientific lens. This episode features marine biologist Mike Dyer, who shares his deep knowledge of our oceans.
We unpack the sardine’s life cycle, mysterious migrations, and the science of those massive bait balls. We discuss why predators go wild, the difference (and price) of red-eye sardines, and the best ways to preserve them. Plus, we explore why fishing action intensifies after netting.
Whether you're an angler or just curious, this episode is packed with insights.
Listen now to The Deep Dive – exploring the science, culture, and chaos of the sardine run. Listen on ECR website
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15:26
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15:26
The Sardine Run (Part 1)
In this episode of 'The Deep Dive,' Vinesh Soogreem is joined by renowned sardine expert Jace Govender, affectionately known as 'The Sardine Whisperer.' They delve into the details of the annual sardine run in South Africa, discussing the excitement it generates - particularly in KZN, the behaviours and migration patterns of the sardines, and the ecological impacts. Jace provides predictions, shares tracking techniques, and discusses the significance of sardines to KZN communities. Future episodes will cover the commercial, safety, and tourism aspects of the sardine run in greater detail.
Episode breakdown:
00:00 Introduction and Predictions
00:29 Meet the Sardine Whisperer: Jace
01:30 The Excitement of the Sardine Run
03:03 Global Sardine Migrations
05:27 The Sardine Migration Route
09:19 Tracking the Sardine Migration
13:15 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser Listen on ECR website
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14:16
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14:16
The Moon and Tides
In this episode of 'The Deep Dive', Vinesh Soogreem revisits the importance of moons and tides in South African fishing. Joined by expert Dave Irving, the discussion covers various tidal phases such as spring tides, neap tides, and rip currents, and how they affect fish behaviour and fishing strategies. They dive into specifics about the best times and conditions for fishing on different tides, the distinction between rip currents and riptides, and how to use various tidal conditions to your advantage. The conversation also touches on seasonal changes that affect fishing and practical advice for targeting different fish species.
00:00 Introduction to Moons and Tides
00:33 Revisiting Moons and Tides
01:09 Interview with Dave Irving
01:40 Understanding Moon Phases and Tides
02:21 Spring Tides vs. Neap Tides
03:43 Fishing Strategies for Different Tides
04:44 Impact of Tides on Fishing Locations
09:20 Exploring Rip Currents and Riptides
10:14 Understanding Rip Currents
11:37 Using Tides to Your Advantage
12:43 Fishing Strategies for Different Tides
17:25 Seasonal Fishing Tips
19:49 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics Listen on ECR website
Welcome to The Deep Dive—a bi-weekly companion series to the popular Angler News South Africa podcast. Hosted by Vinesh Soogreem, this weekly podcast goes beyond the latest fishing hotspots to bring you expert advice, gear breakdowns, and tactical tips for anglers who want to level up.
While the original Angler News SA continues to drop every Thursday with the latest KZN Report, The Deep Dive is where we unpack the how, the why, and the what’s next in South African fishing.
Join us every fortnight, and let’s fish for the future.