Mozambique is extending its network of MPAs (Marine Protected Areas) and most of these constitute excellent holiday/fishing destinations.
Here's a quick guide to the existing (and proposed) MPAs in Mozambique. Information on location, logistics and fishing will be provided as well and photos/maps. Please fill free to add relevant info to make this a more interesting and richer resource.
On separate threads, the following MPA's will be covered:
Part 1. Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve
Part 2. Bilene Especial Reserve (proposed)
Part 3. Bazaruto Archipelago National Park
Part 4. Primeiras and Segundas Reserve (proposed)
Part 5. Quirimbas National Park
PART 1: PONTA DO OURO PARTIAL MARINE RESERVE (POPMR) General description
The Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve (POPMR) was gazetted in 14 July 2009 (Decree 42/2009). The Reserve has a total area of 678 km2, and was proclaimed with the objective of “preserving and protecting marine and coastal species and their habitats”. These include vegetated dunes (amongst the highest in the world!), sandy beaches, subtidal rocky reefs with extensive coral communities, tidal flats, mangroves and seagrass beds. Iconic species in the reserve include marine turtles (4 species of which 2 nest in the reserve), dolphins, whales, the rare and endangered dugong, the whale shark and a diverse and interesting reef fauna.
Location and limits
The POPMR is located in southern Mozambique (Matutuine district) and is an important component of Maputaland's Lubombo Transfrontier Conservation Area. The Reserve starts at the hight tide mark and extends (in the Indian Ocean side), as far out as 3 nm. The southern limit is the border with South Africa, and it runs north to include Inhaca and Portuguese islands, from which it extends south all the way to the the Maputo river mouth. In the Maputo Bay side, the reserve extends from the high tide mark up to 1 nm. Therefore, the marine reserve at Inhaca/Portuguese islands have been incorporated into the POPMR. The Reserve's headquarters is located in Ponta do Ouro, but outposts exists at Ponta Milibangalala and one is to be established in Machangulo.
Getting there
Crossing the Kosi/Ponta do Ouro border it takes about 30 minutes on 4x4 to get to Ponta do Ouro. From Maputo (crossing the bay on a ferry boat) it takes about 3 hours (4x4 mandatory). One can also take the Boane route around the bay, which will take an extra hour. One can also fly there. There is a basic airstrip at Ponta do Ouro, and small charter companies fly from Maputo. Crossing the Maputo bay will also be an option to get to Inhaca island and the rest of the reserve. It takes about 45 min on a ski boat to the island (18 nm). Regular flights to Inhaca are also available.
Logistics
There's is a wide range of accommodation available within the POPMR. From very basic camping facilities to self-catering lodges or luxury resorts, there's an option for everyone. Basic supplies (food, fuel, drinks) are available at Ponta do Ouro village and Inhaca island, but elsewhere travelers should carry everything they'll need. 220v electricity is available (except at Milibangalala) and cellular networks as well. Health care facilities are VERY basic.
Fishing
Fishing is done all year long although summer months are more productive. All facets of saltwater angling can be are practiced (fly, deep sea, R&S, dropshot, jigging). Ski boats, jet skis and kayaks are used and are successful. Live bait is abundant and is very effective when targeting gamefish and billfish. Main species include all regular gamefish (couta, yellowfin tuna and other tunas, dorado, wahoo, barracuda, GT, amberjack) and billfish (black marlin and sailfish). Rays and sharks are also common for the R&S aficionados.
Deep sea fishing requires launching through the surf or from the sheltered waters inside Maputo bay. First time visitors are highly advised to consult local skippers before launching, as the sediment dynamics change abruptly. Safe launches can be done from Ponta do Ouro, Malongane, Mamoli, Techo and Milibangalala. Santa Maria (aka Hell's Gate) sometimes present some serious hairy launches and one should take its time.Productive areas include shallow reefs for live bait and generally the 50-80 m depth is a good area for gamefish. Some popular spots include Baixo Sao Joao, Baixo Santa Maria, Baixo Jeremias, and Baixo Danae (+Poco), but don't be afraid to explore and use the sounder for pinnacles and drop-offs.
Rules and Regulations
The sport fishing regulation is thoroughly enforced as well as all other legislation. Visitors should follow the procedures and are strongly advised to get all licenses (boat and fishing) before initiating their fishing! The Reserve's management plan has been approved and the central sanctuary is a no-take zone (offshore!). R&S is permitted.
