The Margate Pier
The perfect spot for Margate Fishing
Visiting the Margate Pier is a must when you are on a Margate holiday on the South Coast of KwaZulu Natal. Why? Besides being a long time cherished landmark along this part of the coastline and being a firm favorite amongst fishing enthusiasts, it is a one of those spots you will return to time after time for the gorgeous sea views. It is exhilarating to stand on the pier with the waves churning below you while looking out over the sea. Need I say that this is a great spot for the romantic at heart?
The Pier was build in 1963 but declared unsafe for public use after being badly damaged during the spring equinox storms in 2007. There were fears that the structure itself was unstable and demolition was on the cards.
A huge outcry from the public who didn’t want to lose this popular tourism attraction led to the reconsideration of the intended demolition and plans to renovate were set in place.
Margate Fishing
Since the Pier is a hugely popular fishing spot, the local fishing community was consulted during the planning stages resulting in a much improved and fisherman friendly Pier:
- The railings were set at a perfect height for casting off while still being safe.
- The placing of the balustrades was to ensure that baiting only takes place at the baiting tables instead of on the Pier.
- The baiting tables had to be able to accommodate 200 fishermen.
- The gutting table was to allow easy flow of fishermen but also to allow entrails to flow back into the sea attracting more fish.
Today, the Pier offers an excellent fishing experience and the handy cleaning stations, taps at hand and garbage bins make for an enjoyable day of fishing. You can expext to catch Shad, Garrick, Salmon, Blacktail, Rock Cod, Yellowfin, Yellowtail, Bronze Bream and Stone Bream. A smallish Marlin has also been caught from this great fishing spot.
There is plenty of safe parking in front of the Pier and also a viewing deck if you don’t feel brave enough to take the tidal waves on that sometimes splashes over the Pier. Use the side entrance and keep your eyes on the waves if you want to stay dry.
Just note that the toilets are closed (or unusable) at times due to misuse and vandalism.
Where is the Margate Pier?
GPS: -30.865938, 30.372067
Continue for approximately 800 meters (from Margate Beach) along Finnis Road (Panorama Parade) while keeping the ocean to your left. There is a large parking area in front of the Pier that offers safe parking.
