Activities & Attractions
Mazeppa Bay is famous for its exceptional fishing, hiking and swimming/snorkeling. Mazeppa Sunrise is just 20m from the sea and your first fishing spot
Fishing in Mazeppa Bay A Wild Coast Angler’s Guide
Fishing in Mazeppa Bay
Why Fishing in Mazeppa Bay Is Different.
Fishing here isn’t just about what you catch; it’s about where you stand.
Cliffs drop into deep blue water. Waves crash against untouched shoreline. There are no crowds, no commercial noise; just the sound of the ocean and your line cutting through the wind.
For anglers who appreciate wild beauty and powerful ocean conditions, Mazeppa Bay is something special.
The Famous Mazeppa Island (Low Tide Access Only)
Just offshore lies the iconic island that has made Mazeppa Bay legendary in angling circles.
Deep water surrounds the island, and strong currents create ideal conditions for:
Kob (kabeljou)
Garrick (leervis)
Shad (elf)
Various sharks and rays
Important for visitors:
The suspension bridge to the island is currently not operational. Access to the island is only possible at low tide, and only when conditions are safe.
This means timing is everything. Anglers should:
1. Check tide tables carefully.
2. Wear proper rock-fishing footwear.
3. Never attempt the crossing alone.
4. Always monitor the incoming tide.
5. When conditions align, fishing the island remains a bucket-list Wild Coast experience.
Shark Point – For Experienced Anglers
North of the village lies Shark Point, a dramatic headland known for its deep drop-offs and powerful currents.
This is serious fishing territory.
Target species often include:
Large kob
Garrick
Big sharks
Due to the terrain and swell, this area is best suited to experienced anglers with heavy tackle and a good understanding of ocean conditions.
The “Boiling Pot”
South of the island is an area locals refer to as the “Boiling Pot.” The name says it all; swirling currents, turbulent water, and deep channels.
It’s challenging, but highly productive when the sea is working in your favour. This is another spot for anglers who enjoy reading water movement and fishing structure.
Gullies, Ledges & Shoreline Fishing
Not every fishing experience in Mazeppa Bay needs to be extreme.
Along the shoreline you’ll find smaller gullies, sand patches and rocky ledges that can produce excellent catches, especially during early morning or late afternoon sessions.
Common catches include:
Blacktail
Bronze bream
Galjoen
Shad
Smaller kob
These areas are often more accessible and ideal for guests who simply want to enjoy a relaxed cast while soaking in the Wild Coast views.
When Is the Best Time to Fish?
Fishing in Mazeppa Bay is heavily influenced by tides and swell.
Summer: Garrick, kob and sharks are more active
Autumn & Winter: Excellent rock-and-surf fishing conditions
Early mornings & evenings: Prime feeding times
Always check local weather, tide charts and swell predictions before heading out.
Mazeppa Bay is waiting.
Hiking in Mazeppa Bay
Why Hike in Mazeppa Bay?
Hiking here isn’t about ticking off a marked trail — it’s about experiencing the Wild Coast in its raw, untouched beauty.
No crowds.
No traffic noise.
Just dramatic cliffs, fresh sea air, rolling hills and open space.
1. Kob Inn Coastal Walk
Walk along the beach from Mazeppa Bay toward Kob Inn.
Distance: ±4–6 km one way
Time: 1–1½ hours
How to get there:
Start directly from the main beach in Mazeppa Bay and walk north along the shoreline. Best done at low tide for easier walking on firm sand.
2. Island & Cliff Walk
Explore the coastline toward the iconic island just offshore.
How to get there:
From the beachfront, follow the rocky coastline and cliff paths east of the main beach. The suspension bridge is currently not operational, but the cliff views and tidal pools are accessible from the mainland. Best explored at low tide.
3. Headland & Grassland Trails
Gentle inland walks with panoramic ocean views.
How to get there:
From the village, walk up the gravel roads leading inland behind the houses. These paths naturally connect to open grasslands and elevated viewpoints.
4. Beach & Cove Walks
Long, quiet beach stretches and hidden coves.
How to get there:
Simply access the beach from the main beachfront and explore north or south along the shoreline. No marked trails; just follow the coast.
Always wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and check tide times before walking near the shoreline.
Mazeppa Bay First Beach
The area is particularly famous for fishing. First Beach is lined with palm trees and has a 100 m suspension bridge which you can walk over to reach Mazeppa's renowned island. The island is perfect for deep sea fishing with stunning views of the coastline.
Mazeppa Bay Second Beach
Second Beach lies to the south of the lagoon and is within walking distance of First Beach. It is great for taking a long walk by yourself and collect an amazing variety of shells. There are also massive sand dunes to explore and stunning views of the coastline.
Mazeppa Bay has a registered boat launch off the beach, a 550-metre landing strip for light aircraft and a helipad. Mazeppa is within 3 hours drive from East London airport.











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