Cape Town: Illegal fishing at local dams has put wildlife at risk. The Recreation and Parks Department of the City of Cape Town is calling on the public to help protect Rosendal Dam in Bellville. The site marks faunal and floral invasive species interventions by resting the existing no-fishing regulations.
Despite of the clear signage and regular patrols, illegal fishing continues to pose a serious threat to wildlife and undermine the ongoing efforts to rehabilitate the area. A Cormorant was found dead in a recent incident, and was suspended from a tree by fishing line – a stark and distressing reminder of the damage unregulated angling inflicts on local ecosystems.
The Rosendal Dam supports a variety of indigenous bird species such as Cormorants, cattle Egrets and Egyptian Geese, as well as indigenous plants forming part of the larger aquatic ecosystem. It is essential to conserve this biodiversity for the broader environmental goals of the City of Cape Town and community well-being.
Notably, fishing without a valid permit is illegal. According to the City of Cape Town and CapeNature policy, all anglers must obtain a CapeNature recreational fishing license. These regulations are in place to protect both fish populations and other dependent species within the ecosystem.
After a weekend, another incident was reported by a resident at Sonstraal Dam, where an Egyptian goose was found with its legs entangled in fishing line. Several attempts were made to assist the bird, however, it returned to the water at the risk of further harm. This incident was reported through the appropriate channel to grab further attention.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health – Councillor Francine Higham said that the incidents at Rosendal and Sonstreal Dams are heartbreaking for the local wildlife and reflect a blatant disregard for public space and environmental responsibility.
Higham said that these dams are sensitive natural areas, and the City will not hesitate to enforce no-fishing rules to protect the natural heritage. Together, they can protect indigenous birdlife and aquatic ecosystems, ensuring that these spaces remain safe and vibrant for both wildlife and residents.
Councillor for Ward-21 – Hendri Terblanche also gave his opinion and said that their community deserves safe, healthy and thriving green spaces. As per the reports of illegal fishing and the harm it causes to birds and other wildlife at Rosendal and Sonstraal Dams that are deeply concerning.
Terblanche urged the residents to report the illegal activity and support the City of Cape Town efforts to safeguard these important areas.
Recently, Law Enforcement Officers were on patrol at the Vierlanden Dam Dog Park, and issued fines to individuals who were fishing illegally, as the protection of public spaces remains their priority.
Members of the public wish to fish legally in the greater Durbanville region, which are encouraged to obtain a permit and fish only at designated City sites where angling is allowed, such as Door De Kraal Dam in Bellville.
Efforts were made to improve Rosendal Dam remain focused on resolving environmental challenges while maintaining the area as a safe habitat for local wildlife and a welcoming public space.