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The 2026 Sardine Run officially kicked off on the KZN South Coast around 13–15 June 2026, with the first successful netting reported at Port Edward. Shoals have been moving northward along the coast, and activity has been building in areas like Ramsgate, Port Edward, and further toward Durban/Amanzimtoti.
- Illovo Beach (just south of Durban, near Amanzimtoti) has a strong history of good sardine action during this period. In previous years (e.g. 2024), big nettings and frenzies with birds, dolphins, and sharks were common here around mid-to-late June.
- As of now, sardines are in the region, but the exact location of the main shoals shifts daily. Pilot shoals or smaller pockets often reach Illovo early, with bigger runs following.
Best chance right now: Keep an eye on the water — especially early mornings. Look for dark patches in the sea, diving birds (gannets, terns), dolphins, or sharks.
What to Expect at Illovo Beach
- Seine netting: Locals haul in big catches in ankle-to-waist-deep water. Crowds gather quickly when sardines show up.
- Predator frenzy: Sharks (including bronze whalers), dolphins, and seabirds go wild. It can be chaotic and very photogenic.
- Fishing: Great for garrick, shad, kob, and other predators chasing the sardines.
