Sardine catch limit to end on 30 October as no new dead fish reports emerge
The department said more testing for pilchard herpesvirus (PHV) is underway, and results are expected in the coming week.
South Africa's precautionary sardine catch limit will cease on October 30, 2026, as confirmed by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). The limit was implemented on October 3. Scientists will reevaluate the situation on October 27, or sooner if new evidence emerges. Each sardine permit holder may harvest no more than 33% of their remaining 2026 directed sardine total allowable catch in the designated management area west or east of Cape Agulhas.
The limit aims to restrict the rate of sardine removals while additional scientific data is gathered and processed. The Small Pelagic Scientific Working Group will lead the reassessment. The department emphasized that fishing still contributes to research, as the fishery remains a valuable source of samples for laboratory testing and insights into sardine locations.
The DFFE stated that no new dead sardine reports have surfaced since September 10, indicating the end of the acute mortality phase. Authorities continue to monitor coastal areas, urging prompt reporting of new sightings. Laboratory tests for pilchard herpesvirus (PHV) are ongoing, with results expected soon. The department explained that while PHV is not known to infect humans, people should avoid collecting or consuming dead or dying sardines found on beaches or floating near shorelines, as well as refraining from using them as bait or feeding them to animals.
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