WRIGGLESWADE DAM

Wriggleswade dams the water of the Kubusi River, on the opposite side of Stutterheim from the smaller Gubu Dam. Where Gubu Dam lies in amongst indigenous forest and Mount Thomas, the larger Wriggleswade is set in amongst hilly grasslands, most of it farmland.

Did you know? Highlights of the Wriggleswade Dam are water-skiing, and a sunset cruise.

The dam is a sizeable one and popular with both fishermen and watersports fans. Power boats are welcome at Wriggleswade, and the Stutterheim Aquatic Club, designed to encourage water tourism in the area, runs from its southern bank – with campsites, boat houses, caravan sites and ablution blocks.

The bass fishing at Wriggleswade is considered the best in the province due, in no small part, to the nooks and crannies below the water – the legacy of the land’s previous life as farm land – where fish can hide. Hence, the dam is highly populated with largemouth and spotted bass, bluegill and carp, and it hosts the annual Amatole Bass Classic.

Bank fishing is limited to the area immediately around the campsite as other land around the dam is privately owned. However, fishermen will need a tube or canoe to get them beyond the wide water grass verge of the dam.

There is one spot, close to the water tower to the right of the campsite, that is almost devoid of grass and offers a better foothold and casting distance.

Where Wriggleswade is a great holiday and watersport venue, it can get busy over holidays and weekends. If you favour more peaceful camping, head to Gubu Dam where the campsite is smaller and no powerboats are allowed on the water.