Smallmouth Yellowfish Gear Collection

Smallmouth yellowfish (Labeobarbus aeneus) is one of South Africa’s most sought-after freshwater species. Found in rivers like the Vaal, Orange, and Tugela, they are known for their powerful fight and agility. Smallmouth yellowfish primarily feed on nymphs and aquatic insects, making them an ideal target for fly anglers. The best time to fly fish for smallmouth yellowfish is during the spring and summer months, when water levels are stable and the fish are actively feeding. These fish are often found in fast-moving, shallow sections of rivers, where a well-presented nymph or dry fly can trigger an aggressive take.

Fly Rods

A 5-6 weight rod, measuring around 9 feet, is ideal for smallmouth yellowfish. The lighter rod weight provides enough finesse for accurate presentations in flowing water while offering enough strength to handle their powerful runs. A medium to fast action rod is perfect for casting both small dry flies and heavier nymph rigs. Since smallmouth yellowfish often inhabit fast-moving sections of rivers, a slightly longer rod helps with line control and mending, which is crucial for managing drifts and ensuring your fly reaches the correct depth.

Fly Reels

A reliable reel with a smooth drag system is essential for smallmouth yellowfish. Although they don’t make the long, blistering runs of their largemouth cousins, they are strong fighters that require a responsive drag to handle sudden surges. A reel that balances well with a 5-6 weight rod is perfect for ensuring smooth casting and fighting fish in heavy currents. While smallmouth yellowfish don’t typically run into the backing, having 50-75 yards of backing on a large-arbor reel ensures you’re prepared if you hook into a particularly strong fish or need to manage longer battles.

  • Horizon MR Fly Reel-SpoolHorizon MR Fly Reel-Spool
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  • Lamson Guru ReelLamson Guru Reel
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    • Lamson Guru ReelLamson Guru Reel

    • Lamson Guru Reel

    • R5,000.00 – R6,000.00
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  • Sage ESN ReelSage ESN Reel
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    • Sage ESN ReelSage ESN Reel

    • Sage ESN Reel

    • R9,850.00
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  • Sage Spectrum ReelSage Spectrum Reel
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    • Sage Spectrum ReelSage Spectrum Reel

    • Sage Spectrum Reel

    • R6,550.00 – R7,100.00
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Fly Lines

For smallmouth yellowfish, a weight-forward floating line is the most versatile choice. This line allows for accurate presentations, whether fishing dry flies or nymphs in faster-flowing waters. In deeper or faster sections of the river, pairing a floating line with a sinking leader or using an intermediate sinking line may be necessary to reach fish holding deeper. The weight-forward design helps when casting into the wind or using heavier flies, especially in the riffles and runs where smallmouth yellowfish are typically found. Mending the line to ensure a drag-free drift is essential when nymphing or fishing with dry-dropper rigs.

Leaders & Tippet

A tapered leader between 9 and 12 feet in length is ideal for fly fishing smallmouth yellowfish. In fast-moving water, a shorter leader of around 9 feet provides better control, while in calmer or clearer conditions, a longer leader helps prevent spooking fish. A 3X to 4X fluorocarbon tippet is recommended for nymph fishing, offering strength and abrasion resistance when fishing near rocks. If targeting smallmouth yellowfish with dry flies, a lighter 5X tippet is preferable for delicate presentations. Fluorocarbon tippets are also a great choice for nymphing, as they are less visible underwater and sink faster.

Foot Wear

Wading is often necessary when fly fishing for smallmouth yellowfish in South Africa’s rivers. Sturdy wading boots with rubber soles provide excellent grip on slippery rocks, which are common in the riffles and runs these fish inhabit. In warmer months, many anglers prefer wet-wading with lightweight boots or sandals and neoprene socks, which provide comfort and flexibility. For colder conditions, breathable chest waders offer insulation and protection against the cold water while allowing for ease of movement in fast-flowing sections.

  • Simms Freestone Wading Boot – FeltSimms Freestone Wading Boot – Felt
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    • Simms Freestone Wading Boot – FeltSimms Freestone Wading Boot – Felt

    • Simms Freestone Wading Boot – Felt

    • R5,490.00
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  • Simms Freestone Wading Boot – RubberSimms Freestone Wading Boot – Rubber
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    • Simms Freestone Wading Boot – RubberSimms Freestone Wading Boot – Rubber

    • Simms Freestone Wading Boot – Rubber

    • R5,490.00
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  • Simms Gravel Guards
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  • Simms Guard SocksSimms Guard Socks
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Bags, Packs & Vest

Streamlined, lightweight gear is essential when wading and covering large sections of river in search of smallmouth yellowfish. A waterproof sling pack or chest pack is ideal for carrying fly boxes, tippets, and other tools without hindering mobility. These packs often have multiple compartments for easy organization and access to flies and leaders. A vest with multiple pockets can also be useful, though it should be comfortable enough to wear for long periods. Since smallmouth yellowfish often require covering a lot of ground, a well-fitted pack ensures you have everything you need without getting in the way of your casting.

Clothing

When fly fishing for smallmouth yellowfish, lightweight, breathable clothing is key, particularly in South Africa’s warm climate. Long-sleeve shirts with UV protection are ideal for keeping cool while protecting against the sun. Quick-drying pants or shorts are essential, especially if you’re wading through shallow streams. In colder months, layering is important, with a moisture-wicking base layer and a windproof jacket. Earth-tone clothing helps blend in with the environment, reducing your visibility to fish in clear water. A wide-brimmed hat or cap, paired with polarized sunglasses, is essential for cutting glare and improving visibility in the water.

  • First Ascent Ranger PantsFirst Ascent Ranger Pants
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  • Simms Challenger Solar HoodySimms Challenger Solar Hoody
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    • Simms Challenger Solar HoodySimms Challenger Solar Hoody

    • Simms Challenger Solar Hoody

    • R1,850.00
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  • Simms Solarflex Half-Finger Sun GloveSimms Solarflex Half-Finger Sun Glove
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  • Simms Waypoint JacketSimms Waypoint Jacket
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    • Simms Waypoint JacketSimms Waypoint Jacket

    • Simms Waypoint Jacket

    • R4,750.00
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Fly’s

Smallmouth yellowfish primarily feed on nymphs and aquatic insects, so nymph patterns such as the Hotspot Nymph, ZAK Nymph, and Pheasant Tail are highly effective. When fishing faster water, heavier nymphs with bead heads help get the fly down to the feeding zone quickly. Dry flies like the Elk Hair Caddis, Adams, and Parachute Ant are excellent for targeting smallmouth yellowfish feeding on the surface, especially during hatches. In some instances, a dry-dropper rig can be particularly effective, with a dry fly acting as an indicator while a nymph trails below, targeting fish feeding in different parts of the water column.