STILL BAY NEWS - Still Bay has a rich history that dates back to the 1700s when it was a fishing village. The original inhabitants were the Khoisan, nomadic people who mostly lived off the land. Over time, Still Bay developed into a bustling tourist town with plenty of attractions and activities.
The Intertidal stonewall fish traps (known as 'visvywers' in Afrikaans) in Still Bay, could be considered one of the most impressive technological and economical evolution accomplishments of this coastal town.
It is declared a national heritage with only a handful occurring on the east coast.
Fish traps have been used for centuries and continue to be a popular tool for subsistence fishing in many parts of the world. The fish traps found along the east coast of South Africa, stretching from the Hessequa coast to Witsand, are an especially unique example. Several fish traps can also be found around Still Bay, with the fish trap closest to the harbour being the most recent dating.
The principle behind these traps is to form a pod, trapping the fish when the water recedes during low tide. The Skulpiesbaai Nature Reserve is an excellent place to observe these ancient traps in action. The fish traps at Noordkapperspunt have been declared a national monument and the packing of these fish traps is part of an intangible heritage that is also protected by law. These historical landmarks are a reminder of the past and are a great way to get a glimpse into the town's roots.
The added benefit of viewing fishing traps at low tide on Skulpiesbaai Nature Reserve is the biodiversity of marine life to be found. Skulpiesbaai is also well-known for its beautiful shores with sea shells. It should be noted that this is Marine Protected Area (MPA), and thereby no fishing is allowed.
Photo: Sanet van Deventer
One of the fish traps is close to the harbour. Photo: Sanet van Deventer
Skulpiesbaai is also well-known for its beautiful shores with sea shells.
Turn-off at Still Bay.
Several fish traps can also be found around Still Bay, with the fish trap closest to the harbour being the most recent dating. Photos: Este Smit'We bring you the latest Still Bay, Hessequa news'
