TROUT FLYFISHING VENUE AND FACILITIES:

Over the last 5 years, Oxbow Country Estate has established itself as one of the finest trout fly fishing venues in Gauteng. The exclusivity of Oxbow Country Estate ensures that your fly fishing experience is relaxed, quiet and hosted in true South African hospitality. The fly fishing season opens annually in May with the Oxbow May Day Competition. Fly fishers across the country enter to compete for the Trophy and a chance to fish 9 fully stocked trout dams.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND:

Oxbow Country Estate is home to a unique water system that is fed from 3 springs sourced on neighbouring farms, as well as the Osspruit River. The original river course was changed in the early 1900’s when an earth dam wall broke cutting off a large section of the old river, this geographical phenomenon is called an oxbow – which naturally prompted the name. Nurtured and improved in later years, these waters have now become a life source and haven to over 130 recorded species of birdlife, including abundant insect and aquatic species. The waterways and wetlands are home to a variety of water fowl including the elusive Purple gallinule, Red-Knobbed Coots, Moorhen, Black Crake and the enchanting and feisty Little Grebes – otherwise known as Dabchicks. Giant, Pied, Half-collared and the magnificent Malachite Kingfishers can be seen hovering and diving on all the dams, and on a good day you might even be lucky enough to spot our visiting Fish Eagle or hear his telltale cry. The gardens lovingly landscaped over the years, further enhance the tranquillity you will experience when visiting this estate in the country.

FLY FISHING AT OXBOW COUNTRY ESTATE:

When the temperatures plummet to well below freezing, the winter fly fishing season opens between May and August. Nine interlinking dams are stocked with good quality, well sized Trout including Rainbows, Goldens, and Browns. Easy access to 2.5km of river and dam frontage, as well as conveniently positioned wooden jetties make for easy retrieval of fish. There are well-constructed gravel pathways which enable you to walk from dam to dam or for a quiet stroll in the country to rejuvenate the soul.

FACILITIES:

Fishing days are complimented by our speciality menu of the day. Fly fishers and their guests can choose from a Standard English breakfast menu and our lunch menu of the day, for wholesome delicious country food. During the fly fishing season, the Riverbed Hall with fully stocked bar and wine selection is available to fisherman, their families and guests. For those seeking the comfortable pleasures of a blazing fire, a lounge area is available with books and magazines. Our resident fly fishing guide is available to advise on technique, entomology, fly tying and general fly fishing knowledge. If you would like to learn how to fly fish, why not enquire about our beginners weekends with accommodation. This facility offers you a unique experience and the total commitment from owners Frank and Alison Lovell that ensure everything possible is done to make memories of your stay here wonderful and everlasting.