Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment monitors the 2026 sardine mortality event

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) continues to monitor the 2026 sardine mortality event. No renewed widespread mortality has been reported. The only new report during the past week was an isolated fresh sardine stranding near Mbotyi on the northern Wild Coast on 11 September 2026. The temporary precautionary fisheries measure implemented on 11 September 2026 remains in force until 2 October 2026. During this period, each right holder may land no more than 25% of its outstanding 2026 directed sardine total allowable catch. The measure applies west and east of Cape Agulhas while monitoring and scientific work continue. The available evidence did not indicate that the mortality had reduced the sardine population sufficiently to warrant complete closure. The current measure in place is precautionary and time-limited, and can be reviewed sooner if conditions deteriorate. Industry has confirmed that strong winds prevented recent fishing west of Cape Agulhas and that fishing opportunities in Algoa Bay were also limited by the weather. Only one catch of sardine, amounting to 26 tonnes has been taken since the beginning of September. Pilchard herpesvirus remai