One of the Eastern Cape’s best hidden treasures, Wriggleswade Dam lies nestled between the rolling grasslands of the Amabele farming area. Stretching across 17km and covering 1000 hectares, this expanse of water has fast become a haven for avid fishermen and those who enjoy water sports.

The idea of building a dam was first conceived as early as 1959 but took a further 26 years before the work began. When the farm Wriggleswade was chosen above two other sites, excavation started on the first tunnels in 1985. More than 2000 jobs were created in an area with high unemployment constructing 100km of tunnels and canals which would carry water to King Williams Town, Berlin and East London. By the end of 1991 the wall was completed and the Kubusie River flowed into the area and started to saturate the land, but it was not until 29 February 1996 that it was filled to capacity for the first time.

Wriggleswade Dam lies just off the N6, the main route from Johannesburg to the coast, and is situated about 25km south of Stutterheim and 60km north of East London. With only a short 12km leg of dirt road in reasonable condition, the dam is easily accessible. Due to its perfect location, a steering committee was formed in 1990 to determine how it could be turned into a premier fresh water tourist attraction for the Border area - and so the Stutterheim Aquatic Club was born. Since its inception, the club which leases private land from the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry has now built a charming club house, boasts 40 boat houses for members, approximately 60 campsites, 60 caravan sites provided with power and 3 ablution blocks. There is also a lovely single roomed log cabin on the waters edge available for rent.

Nowadays, Wriggleswade is a hive of activity and many consider it to be the best Bass fishing dam in the Eastern Cape. Having previously been farm land, the dam is full of grassy areas, rock piles, old semi submerged tree stumps and plenty of nooks and crannies where fish love to hide. To date, the record bass caught weighed in at 5.01 kg and the largest carp at a massive 20 kg.

Since 2000, the Amatola Bass Masters has been held at Wriggleswade and has attracted people from as far as Zimbabwe. Monthly local fish offs are held and several yachting competitions during the course of the year. The annual triathlon always draws a crowd and another popular event is the Merrifield Mile. Water skiing, wake boarding and parasailing are all available through Aquascape Adventures or for those who feel less energetic, a sunset cruise around the dam is the perfect way to end the day.

With the fantastic campsite, braai areas along the waters edge for the day visitor and some of the best bass fishing in the Eastern Cape, Wriggleswade offers a brilliant venue for a family holiday or just a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Contact:  Amanda 083 752 4545