The crystal-clear waters that cascade down from the region’s majestic peaks harbour some of South Africa’s most extraordinary aquatic treasures — endemic fish species found nowhere else on Earth.
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Currently, 24 of the province\u2019s 35 freshwater fish species are listed as threatened and 73% of the Western Cape\u2019s freshwater fish are found nowhere else in the world. This high level of endemism makes local conservation efforts especially important. At the same time 73 of 138 freshwater ecosystems in the province have been classified as critically endangered, highlighting the need for science-based solutions to protect these habitats.
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The solution, however, may be simpler than you think. Armed with nothing more than a fishing rod, a consciousness for conservation and the willingness to practise catch-and-release, recreational anglers across the province are becoming unlikely heroes in one of South Africa’s most critical conservation battles. “To support the long-term health of these fragile systems CapeNature is promoting catch-and-release fishing practices of indigenous fish species,\u201d said Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature, “and removal of invasive fish species as a practical and immediate way for recreational anglers to contribute to conservation. That is why we want to empower communities, anglers and visitors to become environmental stewards for our indigenous fish species. Practising responsible catch-and-release or sometimes catch and remove for alien invasive species helps to sustain the biodiversity and ecological balance of our freshwater systems.\u201d
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A recent survey conducted in the Boland Mountain Complex, which includes protected areas such as Jonkershoek, Hottentots-Holland, Hawequas and Theewaterskloof, found that over half the surveyed river sites were in \u201cGood\u201d or \u201cVery Good\u201d ecological condition. This is encouraging, but the presence of invasive fish at some sites remains a challenge for the survival of certain indigenous species.
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The Endangered giant redfin (Pseudobarbus skeltoni) was confirmed for two of the three known populations, but remains under pressure due to the presence of invasive fish and, according to Naidoo, the catch and release approach helps reduce fishing pressure on indigenous fish populations, especially those that are already vulnerable or have limited ranges. “When done correctly it gives fish a chance to recover, breed and contribute to the resilience of their ecosystems.”
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He confirmed CapeNature was continuing to monitor river health through biodiversity surveys and was using the data to guide conservation action. “Simultaneously, the entity is encouraging behavioural change among fishing communities, outdoor enthusiasts and local stakeholders by broadening the scale and scope of different public-awareness efforts. These initiatives and their progress are reflected in resources such as the 2025 State of Conservation Report.
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“The Entity encourages all recreational anglers to familiarise themselves with indigenous species, use barbless hooks, minimise handling and return fish to the water gently. These small actions can make a big difference in conserving the province\u2019s unique freshwater biodiversity. By combining science, community awareness and practical action we\u2019re building long-term capacity to protect our freshwater fish species and the systems where they play critical roles.”<\/p>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The crystal-clear waters that cascade down from the region’s majestic peaks harbour some of South Africa’s most extraordinary aquatic treasures — endemic fish species found nowhere else on Earth. Currently, 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