Hidden high in the spectacular Winterberg Mountains near Tarkastad, Thrift Dam is a destination that will appeal particularly to fly-fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers and adventurous travellers looking to discover somewhere well off the beaten track.

Situated at approximately 1,700 metres above sea level on the upper reaches of the Swart Kei (Black Kei) River, the dam covers around 160 hectares when full. Surrounded by rugged mountains, open farmland and vast Eastern Cape skies, Thrift offers an extraordinary sense of space, solitude and wilderness.

Thrift Dam has earned a legendary reputation among South African fly-fishers for its large rainbow and brown trout. The dam is regarded as one of the country’s outstanding trophy-trout stillwaters, with anglers travelling considerable distances in search of that memorable catch.

But you don’t have to be an angler to appreciate Thrift. The journey into the Winterberg takes you through beautiful, remote countryside, while the high-altitude setting provides spectacular mountain scenery and a wonderful feeling of getting away from it all. Descriptions from fly-fishing writers emphasise just how remote the place feels. One account memorably describes arriving at the dam after travelling through old pastures and rocky roads and seeing the horseshoe-shaped water come into view.

Thrift Dam is a remote destination and visitors should make arrangements in advance regarding access, fishing and accommodation. Conditions can be challenging, particularly in winter and during adverse weather. Please confirm current access arrangements before travelling.

Accommodation is available in three rustic chalets right on the water

Contact – thriftfishing@gmail.com
Accommodation enquiries – Angela 082 899 8153
Fishing enquiries – Martin 082 398 1088