Diamond River Yellowfish Camp

12 - 16 September 2023

The Diamond River Outfitters Yellowfish Camp is set on a pristine and remote stretch of the Lower Vaal river. This stretch of the Vaal River sees very few anglers and the result is incredible numbers of fish with unique Smallmouth Yellowfish and Largemouth Yellowfish behaviour, which lends itself to dry fly fishing, streamer fishing and sight fishing under the best conditions.

When

We have secured a prime slot during the opening weeks of the season. The trip runs from 12 – 16 September 2023 which is perfect for targeting Largemouth Yellowfish.

Where

The concession lies on 38km of the Lower Vaal River on a 40,000ha Nature Reserve near Kimberley, Northern Cape, South Africa. Offering a number of activities, including; game drives and tours of the Bushman fountain where you can view thousands of ancient petroglyphs, to name a few.

A remote setting, great food and a dedicated hospitality team set this camp apart. The entire camp is built for each group of guests, with large dome safari tents, comfortable beds, and eco-friendly facilities, keeping with the vision of the camp and reserve. We aim to make use of this unique resource with as little impact as possible.

We look forward to sharing this true gem with our guests.

Fishing

The fishing is exceptional; the location and river bed structure mean that the water flows unusually clear, making sight fishing to large fish possible. The numbers of Smallmouth Yellowfish and Largemouth Yellowfish in this area are spectacular! Combined with little to no pressure, you are sure to be spoilt by the number and quality of fish that can be caught on dry fly, streamers and nymphs!

The options are endless with fish rising to terrestrial dry flies, mayfly and caddis hatches, streamers fishing in deeper pools with both Smallmouth and Largemouth Yellowfish chasing streamer big and small. Nymph fishing is not often required, however can lead to significant numbers caught in a day.

There are several special spots on the concession, including an incredible 1km’s of shallow riffle water, offering anglers the opportunity to target shoals of yellows that congregate here. Uncommon in most locations on the Vaal are the wide grassy banks that make fly fishing from the bank a reality, this is great for anglers who are not comfortable with wading. Game roams freely on the reserve, encounters with Kudu, Giraffe and a host of other wildlife is not unusual on the lush riverbanks – an oasis in the arid veld.

The main focus of the fishing is targeting Smallmouth Yellowfish and Largemouth Yellowfish, however other species such as Sharptooth Catfish, Orange River Mudfish, Grass Carp, Common Carp and Moggel can also be targeted on fly.

Check out the video we made of this incredible venue

Why book your trip through Stream and Sea?

We charge the same rate as the tour operators, so why would you book your trip with us?

The main reasons why we would recommend you purchasing your trips through us are:

  • We help you to prepare thoroughly to ensure that you have a positive and relaxing experience. We make sure you have the right tackle and gear, and can organise casting clinics so that you are well prepared.
  • On hosted trips we will be right beside you on the water to make sure that everything on your trip, from the accommodation to your fishing experience, runs smoothly. 
  • We document your trip through photographs so that your once in a lifetime trip is truly unforgettable.
  • All guests who book trips through us qualify for 15% discount at our shop.

Package Details

R17590pp
4 Nights

Includes:

  • Shared tented accommodation
  • All camp amenities
  • Guiding
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Boats and drift equipment
  • Photography
  • Transport to and from fishing areas

Excludes:

  • Alcohol
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Transport to the concession
  • Gratuities
  • Fishing tackle (this can be hired by prior arrangement)
Please note, a 50% deposit is required to reserve your spot. Balance to be paid 4 weeks prior to the trip

Diamond River Yellowfish Camp

12 - 16 September 2023

Eastern Cape Highlands

22-29 April 2023