He also owns an inflatable boat fitted
with an Elite 4 unit, which the pair used
to fish in the recent Umhlanga Festival
2018. “We used the Elite to find our
bait and the fish which seemed to be
present in quite shallow waters.”
Sarah caught the second biggest fish, a
25.3kg Couta – (she led the field after
the first day) to take the Top Ladies
prize and Jason came fourth with his
23.6kg Couta.
He swears by Lowrance.
“Whether you’re fishing off a jetski,
kayak or skiboat, these fishfinders
are reliable, user - friendly and
the GPS helps you see so clearly.
Thanks to the maps, live viewings
can be recorded which is so helpful,
especially if you’re not familiar with
the waters. It makes it much easier to
find structure and drop-offs where
the fish hang out.
Lowrance’s service is fantastic – John is
always willing to assist and discuss all
the options. It’s great to have someone
to talk to who knows the product so
well and can explain things in a way in
which I can understand.”
While Jason fishes off any vessel, his first love is paddleski fishing. “It’s one on one –
you against the fish. You do everything yourself… from paddling out, to finding the fish,
catching, gaffing or releasing them. There’s no-one else to help or to blame if things
don’t work out – but you do get an immense sense of satisfaction when you get it right
or solve a problem!” he says.
He fishes as much as possible both locally and in Mozambique – where he’s already been
five times this year, fishing for fun and in competitions.
Jason is paying attention to the prospect of a league being formed – which ultimately
could lead to Kayak Anglers being awarded colours in future. Don’t be surprised if you
see his name right up there with the best of them.
If his biggest catch is anything to go by – it could well happen. Two years ago, he caught
a 29,9kg Tuna while fishing off his ski at Salmon Bay in Ballito.
Watch this spot for more good reports from Jason Pretorius.