Eastern Cape, East London, Bridle Drift Dam
Bridle Drift Dam is a large public dam on the Buffalo River about 25 km west of East London. The open water holds bass and carp. Community groups use the shoreline for hiking, kayaking, and camping events.
Bridle Drift Dam is the main drinking water supply for Buffalo City. The reservoir covers about 735 ha on the Buffalo River. Largemouth bass and carp are the common catches. Papgooi works from the open bank. The dam sits in hilly bushveld with long inlets and open basins. Access is informal on public land. Water hyacinth has been cleared in recent years. Confirm fishing rules and access with Buffalo City before you visit.
Bridle Drift Dam sits in the hills west of East London in the Eastern Cape. The dam wall and Buffalo River valley sit below Mdantsane suburbs to the north. Bushveld ridges and inlets ring the basin. Locals also call the area KwaGrinika or Grinika. This is a day venue on public water. There is no formal lodge or campsite on the dam. Community groups run hiking trails, kayaking days, and informal camping events on parts of the shoreline. Bring your own tackle, food, shade, and water. Day fishing access and any permit fees are not published for this dam. Confirm access and the price with Buffalo City before you visit. Last updated at: 4 September 2026.
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Other locations on DaarByt nearby. Book online or request a booking.
Nahoon Dam
Nahoon Dam is a public supply reservoir on the Nahoon River north of East London. The open water holds bass, carp, and kurper. Locals fish the banks and launch jet skis on calm days.
Wriggleswade Dam
Wriggleswade Dam is a 1 000 ha Kubusi River reservoir near Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape. The Stutterheim Aquatic Club runs camping, caravan sites, and day fishing from the southern shore.
