Fishing and Whaling in Fish Hoek

Date: [unknown] [unknown]
Location: Fish Hoek, Cape Province, South Africa

Introduction

This page is part of the Fish Hoek Valley One Place Study.

Earning a livelihood by harvesting fish from shore-based boats has been a traditional means of subsistence from the sea for ages. Historical records reveal that the early inhabitants of the South Peninsula, specifically the Hunter Gatherers, relied partly on sea resources to supplement their diet of fynbos plant foods.

The techniques employed for trek fishing or seine-netting from the beach have remained largely unchanged over the centuries, continuing to serve as a method for gathering food. The process typically begins with an observer, known as the 'uitkyker' or 'wagter,' spotting a shoal of fish from an elevated position like a hill or promontory overlooking the bay. Different colors of the water signify various types of fish: blue or light yellow for harders, a bluish hue for elf, and a darker shade indicating a dense shoal. Skilled fishermen could estimate the quantity of fish present.

Fishermen Mural at Fish Hoek Beach

Once the colorful spread of fish is within reach of the trekkers, a signal—via whistle or flag—is given, prompting a boat prepared with a net at its stern to set out from the shore. Volunteers, including members of the public at times, assist in securing one end of the net to the shore using a rope. The net is then deployed from the stern of the boat, maneuvering in a circular motion as instructed by signals from the lookout post. Simultaneously, a hauling rope on the opposite end of the net is brought ashore. Subsequently, the net is drawn in, bringing the enclosed fish to the shore. Importantly, no motors are used aboard the boat to avoid startling the fish.