Dichistius capensis

Galjoen

South Africa's national fish: a hard-fighting, black and silver fish found only on our coast, feeding in white water over reef.
Gear for galjoen

Stylised illustration, not to scale.

Baits

  • Red bait
  • Redworm
  • Mussel
  • Cracker shrimp
Habitat
Rocky shores, reef and the surf zone close to rocks, where they feed in the wash.
Season
Present along much of the coast. Many anglers target them in the cooler months.
Best times
Early morning and the rising tide, when the water is white and aerated.
Tackle
A 12 ft rock and surf rod with a spinning or multiplier reel and 15 to 20 lb mono.
Hook
1/0 to 3/0 octopus or baitholder hook.

Tips

  • Fish right in the wash against the rocks.

  • Keep the trace short so the bait stays in the strike zone.

  • Use a light drag and keep the rod tip up: galjoen dive towards rocks.

Rules

Galjoen is a nationally recognised species with a bag limit and other rules. Check the current regulations.

This site is not an official source. Check the current rules with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

Recommendations are pending review by a local angler.

Rigs

Rigs that suit galjoen

Gear

Gear for galjoen

See all gear for galjoen