Beat 6

The upper stretch of the Smalblaar River is a small stream that carves through steep mountainous terrain. The shaded kloof in the higher reaches provides the trout with cool water throughout summer and, in comparison to the lower beats, such as the Molenaars, the fish do particularly well here in the warmer months.

The most attractive feature of this section is the numerous waterfalls and abundant indigenous trees and ferns that adorn the pools. This making Ravens Crag one of th most popular beats in the society.

This beat demands a good pair of wading boots and warm clothing for the early morning and late afternoon.  At one point, the only way forward is through a narrow gorge with steep cliff faces.

The tiny Krom river joins the Smalblaar roughly half way up Ravens Crag Beat. This little stream holds sparse populations of rainbows, whose size is sure to impress you. Fish of 15 inches have been seen feasting in the tiny, shallow pools along this stream.

Parking for Beat 6 is at the Huguenot Tunnel, and the beat starts at the low water bridge just down from the parking area. Fish upstream towards the confluence of the Elandspad and continue up the right branch until you reach a large impassable waterfall.

Beat 6 is often only fished up to the confluence of the Krom, as above this point the beat becomes a lot more technical. With the river narrowing into a gorge and the dense Rooi Els trees hanging over the edge of the stream, casting becomes trickier. Either way a good number of fish can be caught on this beat, even if you only fish half of it.