18/06/2026
Winter Snoek Spinning Along the KZN Coast
Chasing Silver Bullets During the Sardine Run
For many shore anglers along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline, winter signals the arrival of one of the most exciting spinning opportunities of the year – the Natal Snoek, more correctly known as the Queen Mackerel.
As the annual Sardine Run moves up the coast, vast shoals of baitfish attract a variety of predators, and among the most sought-after are these fast, aggressive pelagic hunters. Their blistering speed, hard-hitting strikes and surface-feeding behaviour make them a favourite target for spinning enthusiasts.
Natal Snoek are fast-growing fish that can exceed 70cm within two years and may eventually reach lengths of around one metre and weights approaching 10kg. Their diet consists primarily of sardines, red-eye sardines, anchovies and juvenile mackerel, making the Sardine Run a prime feeding opportunity.
Why Anglers Love Targeting Snoek
Few fish provide the visual excitement of a feeding shoal of Natal Snoek. One moment the ocean appears calm, and the next baitfish are scattering across the surface as predators slash through them at speed.
From the shore, success requires persistence, mobility and plenty of casting. Unlike many edible species where anglers wait for bites, spinning for snoek is an active style of fishing that keeps anglers moving and constantly searching for fish.
The reward is often a screaming drag and a high-speed fight from one of the coastline's most exciting gamefish.
To Find Them
During the winter months and Sardine Run period, Natal Snoek can be found along much of the KZN coastline, particularly around:
• South Pier
• North Pier
• Blue Lagoon (North Bank)
• Umdloti
• Westbrook
• Tongaat Mouth
• Ballito
• Salt Rock
• Tinley Manor
• Parts of the KZN Lower South Coast
Look for areas where baitfish congregate, especially near river mouths, deep gutters, rocky points, reefs and behind the backline.
Bird activity, baitfish spraying on the surface and sudden splashes often indicate feeding fish.
Best Time To Fish
Early mornings remain the most productive time to target snoek from the shore.
The first hour after sunrise often produces the best action, especially when baitfish are concentrated close to shore.
Late afternoons and evenings can also be productive, while fish may occasionally feed throughout the day during active Sardine Run conditions.
Tackle Selection
Because distance casting is often required, anglers should focus on lightweight spinning tackle capable of covering large areas of water.
# # # Recommended Rods (10ft – 12ft)
• Okuma X Series
• Okuma Invincible
• Okuma Nomad
• Okuma Matrix
Recommended Reels (4000 – 5500 Size)
• Okuma Inspira
• Okuma Azores
• Okuma Salina
• Okuma Tesoro
Braid
• 15lb – 30lb 8-Strand Braid
Leader
• 30lb – 50lb Fluorocarbon
While some anglers use wire traces to prevent bite-offs, fluorocarbon leaders generally produce more bites and better lure action.
Top Lures For Winter Snoek
Several lures consistently perform during the Sardine Run.
# # # Top Performers
• Fish Inc Winglet
• Fish Inc Sprata
• Fish Inc Flanker
• Halco Twisty
• Jiggy Spoons
Productive Colours
Morning & Evening:
• Pink
• Green
• Glow
Bright Daylight:
• Silver
• Chrome
Retrieval Techniques
Natal Snoek are visual predators and generally prefer a fast-moving target.
Successful retrieves typically involve:
• Long casts
• Fast retrieves
• Occasional erratic twitches
• Covering water quickly
• Changing lure colours and sizes when fish become selective
Mobility is often key. If fish are not showing in one area, move until you find feeding activity.
Looking After Your Gear
Winter spinning can be hard on equipment due to constant exposure to salt spray.
After every session:
• Rinse reels lightly with fresh water
• Wipe down rods and guides
• Check leaders for abrasion
• Inspect braid for wear
• Store rods in protective rod bags or tubes
Regular servicing will greatly extend the lifespan of your tackle.
Winter snoek spinning is one of the highlights of the KZN fishing calendar. Combining spectacular sunrises, the excitement of the Sardine Run and explosive strikes from fast-moving predators, it offers anglers an unforgettable experience.
Whether you're casting from the piers of Durban or working the beaches and rocky points along the KZN coast, few things compare to seeing a shoal of Natal Snoek erupting on the surface and knowing your next cast could connect with one of these silver bullets.
