How to Catch Galjoen in Namibia

How to Catch Galjoen in Namibia

What is Galjoen?

The galjoen, black bream, or blackfish is a species of marine fish found only along the coast of southern Africa from Angola to South Africa. Galjoen is the national fish of South Africa.

Where and how to Catch Galjoen in Namibia

Give the Galjoen sufficient time to bite firmly, let your rod tip down and be patient before striking. The Galjoen is a strong fighter. Take your time and reel it in gently or else you are likely to tear the hook out of it’s mouth. Use the swell to reel the fish in and do not lift it out of the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you catch galjoen in Namibia?

The best bait to use for galjoen is redbait. Although freshly cut redbait may be used, galjoen show a predilection for matured redbait. Most anglers obtain their redbait from the rocks at spring low tide, using a sharp knife to cut the pods. The red, fleshy inner part (the actual bait) may then be collected.

Where can I fish for galjoen in Namibia?

Where To Look For Galjoen. Galjoen is found swimming lively in foamy waters which occurs more during the winter when strong westerly and south-westerly winds are blowing. Seeking baits during this specific time in gullies and close to reefs.

Why is the galjoen in danger in Namibia?

Conservation: Due to overfishing the galjoen is becoming scarce and catches are limited as it is a threatened species. The Galjoen is listed as Red on SASSI’s Consumer Seafood List and the IUCN Red List Status of this fish has not yet been evaluated.

What is the best bait for galjoen in Namibia?

Bait. The best bait to use for galjoen is redbait. Although freshly cut redbait may be used, galjoen show a predilection for matured redbait. Most anglers obtain their redbait from the rocks at spring low tide, using a sharp knife to cut the pods.

Are you allowed to catch galjoen in Namibia?

The closed season for the Galjoen in South Africa is (When you are not allowed to fish for or target the Galjoen) 15 October to 28/29 February and the minimum size is 35 centimeters, and there is a bag limit of 2 Galjoen per angler per day.

Where is the galjoen found in Namibia?

The galjoen, black bream, or blackfish (Dichistius capensis) is a species of marine fish found only along the coast of southern Africa from Angola to South Africa. Galjoen is the national fish of South Africa.

How old does a galjoen get in Namibia?

They can reach a maximum size of 74 cm total length and a weight of 6.5 kg, with females growing bigger than males. They have been aged up to a maximum of 21 years.

What is another name for galjoen in Namibia?

The galjoen is South Africa’s national fish. It is also known as the black bream, blackfish, or damba.

Is it illegal to catch galjoen in Namibia?

It is South Africa’s national fish and listed as Near Threatened in the 2018 National Biodiversity Assessment. It is illegal to sell or buy species listed as no-sale anywhere in South Africa. Only recreational fisherman with a valid permit may catch them, but they are not allowed to sell their catch.

What does the galjoen eat in Namibia?

They are known as strong swimming fish, that readily enter rough, shallow waters and surf in search of food. Galjoen eat mainly ascidians (sea squirts like redbait), small crustaceans, barnacles and red seaweed.

Can you eat galjoen in Namibia?

Reaching a maximum size of 70cm and 5kg, this fish is very popular amongst fishermen as the flesh makes excellent eating if you can ignore the ugly appearance of the fish. The Galjoen is known as SA’s National Fish and can be found along all rocky regions of SA’s coastline.

How do you catch galjoen in Namibia?

The best bait to use for galjoen is redbait. Although freshly cut redbait may be used, galjoen show a predilection for matured redbait. Most anglers obtain their redbait from the rocks at spring low tide, using a sharp knife to cut the pods. The red, fleshy inner part (the actual bait) may then be collected.

Where can I cast for galjoen in Namibia?

Where To Look For Galjoen. Galjoen is found swimming lively in foamy waters which occurs more during the winter when strong westerly and south-westerly winds are blowing. Seeking baits during this specific time in gullies and close to reefs.