Overview of Rietvlei Dam

Rietvlei Dam in Gauteng, South Africa, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers. The dam is part of the Rietvlei Nature Reserve, which offers a variety of wildlife and scenic views, making it a perfect spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Fishing at Rietvlei Dam is known for its challenging conditions, particularly for carp fishing. Anglers can enjoy bass, carp, and barbel fishing, with popular spots near the island and rocky areas. The dam’s reputation for tough fishing conditions makes it a favorite among experienced anglers looking for a rewarding challenge.

Accommodation options at Rietvlei Dam include camping areas and chalets. The camping area operates on a first-come, first-served basis, while the chalets can be booked in advance. The chalets are well-located with deep waters in front, ideal for fishing. The camping area offers a rustic experience close to nature.

Location: Rietvlei Dam, Gauteng, South Africa

Contact: [email protected]
Phone: 012 480 9944

Links to the venue:

Accommodation at Rietvlei Dam

Rietvlei Dam offers two main types of accommodation: camping areas and chalets.

Camping

• Location: The camping area stretches along the shoreline, starting from the first ablution block near the entrance and extending to the island spot where the road ends.
• Facilities: The camping area operates on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no electricity, but there are multiple ablution blocks available, although hot water is not guaranteed.
• Environment: Campers are situated close to the reserve fence, providing opportunities to see wildlife, including rhinos, and hear them at night.
• Restrictions: No boats, canoes, or kickboats are allowed, only baitboats. Drones are also prohibited.

Chalets

• Location: The chalets are located in a prime fishing area with deep waters in front, especially near the first few chalets.
• Facilities: The chalets are comfortable and well-maintained, with options for 4-sleeper and 6-sleeper units. The 4-sleeper chalets are numbered 1-9, and the 6-sleeper chalets are numbered 10-17.
• Booking: Chalets can be booked in advance by emailing [email protected] or visiting the gate in person.
• Rates: The 4-sleeper chalets are priced at R1029 per night, while the 6-sleeper chalets are R1312.50 per night.

For more details, you can contact them at [email protected] or call 012 480 9944.

Activities at Rietvlei Dam

Fishing

• Bass Fishing: Known for its challenging conditions, bass fishing at Rietvlei Dam can be highly rewarding. Popular lures include flukes, worms, and spinnerbaits. Key spots are near the reeds, the island, and rocky areas.
• Carp Fishing: Carp fishing is tough but rewarding, with large specimens available. Effective baits include floaties and tigernuts. Fishing is best at night and early morning, with popular spots near the island and rocky areas.
• Other Species: The dam also has barbel, kurper (tilapia), and yellowfish. Barbel can be caught using earthworms and crab, while kurper and yellowfish are less commonly caught but present.

Nature Walks

• Scenic Trails: Enjoy peaceful nature walks along the shoreline and through the Rietvlei Nature Reserve, offering opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty.

Wildlife Viewing

• Wildlife: The reserve is home to various wildlife, including rhinos and hippos. Visitors can often see animals near the camping area and hear them at night.

Camping

• Camping: The camping area offers a rustic experience close to nature, with opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. Campers should be aware of the lack of electricity and the need to bring their own supplies.

Picnicking

• Picnic Spots: There are designated picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.

For more details, you can visit their website or contact them at [email protected] or call 012 480 9944.

Facilities at Rietvlei Dam

Camping

• Location: The camping area stretches along the shoreline, starting from the first ablution block near the entrance and extending to the island spot where the road ends.
• Facilities: The camping area operates on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no electricity, but multiple ablution blocks are available, although hot water is not guaranteed.
• Environment: Campers are situated close to the reserve fence, providing opportunities to see wildlife, including rhinos, and hear them at night.
• Restrictions: No boats, canoes, or kickboats are allowed, only baitboats. Drones are also prohibited.

Chalets

• Location: The chalets are located in a prime fishing area with deep waters in front, especially near the first few chalets.
• Facilities: The chalets are comfortable and well-maintained, with options for 4-sleeper and 6-sleeper units. The 4-sleeper chalets are numbered 1-9, and the 6-sleeper chalets are numbered 10-17.
• Booking: Chalets can be booked in advance by emailing [email protected] or visiting the gate in person.
• Rates: The 4-sleeper chalets are priced at R1029 per night, while the 6-sleeper chalets are R1312.50 per night.

General Facilities

• Ablution Blocks: Multiple ablution blocks are available throughout the camping area, though hot water is not always guaranteed.
• Picnic Areas: Designated picnic spots are available for visitors to enjoy meals surrounded by nature.
• Wildlife Viewing: The proximity to the reserve fence allows for frequent wildlife sightings, including rhinos and hippos.

For more details, you can contact them at [email protected] or call 012 480 9944.