Carp, good company and the beauty of Vygeboom Dam

It’s that time of year again where anglers need to head out to OppiDam at Vygeboom Dam for the annual LABA Skiboat Carp Fishing competition that is going to take place on March 20 and 21. Hosted by the LABA Skiboat Club, this carp competition is a fundraising effort to support junior club members and assist with the costs of competing in bigger events.

Nestled in the rolling hills outside Badplaas, Vygeboom Dam has long been regarded as one of Mpumalanga’s hidden gems. Known for its tranquil waters, scenic surrounds and healthy fish population, the dam has become a favourite among anglers looking for both challenge and relaxation.

With carp fishing competitions drawing growing interest, Vygeboom Dam is once again firmly in the spotlight, and for very good reason.

For anglers, a good fishing competition is about more than just landing the biggest fish. It’s about the location, the atmosphere, the people and the overall experience. Vygeboom Dam delivers on all fronts, offering excellent carp fishing opportunities combined with a relaxed, social environment that keeps competitors returning year after year.

Vygeboom Dam is particularly well known for its healthy carp population.

The dam’s varied underwater structure, open feeding areas and steady water levels create ideal conditions for specimen carp to thrive. These factors make it an exciting venue for competitive carp anglers who rely on patience, preparation and technique rather than chance.

Early mornings at the dam are often calm and peaceful, with mist rising gently from the water and rods already lined up along the shoreline. As the day unfolds, anglers carefully adjust bait, feeding patterns and tactics, reading the water and responding to subtle changes in fish behaviour. This strategic element is what makes carp fishing competitions both demanding and rewarding.

Carp fishing has long been a cornerstone of South African angling culture, appealing to seasoned competitors and weekend anglers alike. Competitions add structure and excitement to the sport, encouraging anglers to refine their skills while adhering to conservation-focused rules that promote catch-and-release practices and responsible fishing.

Beyond the competition itself, these events are as much about camaraderie as they are about prizes. Evenings are filled with stories of near-misses, unexpected runs and memorable catches, often shared around a fire with fellow anglers who understand the thrill of a screaming reel.

A successful fishing weekend depends heavily on where anglers choose to stay, and OppiDam has established itself as the ideal base for Vygeboom Dam competitions. Located right on the water’s edge, OppiDam allows participants to fish comfortably without long travel times or early-morning rushes.

OppiDam offers a range of accommodation options to suit couples, families and groups of anglers. Well-maintained camping facilities, comfortable units and clean ablutions ensure that visitors can focus on fishing while still enjoying a relaxing weekend away.

After a long day on the bank, OppiDam provides the perfect setting to unwind. Fires are lit, meals are shared and the day’s results are discussed as the sun sets over the dam. The friendly, welcoming atmosphere makes it easy for visitors to settle in and feel part of the community.

As carp fishing competitions continue to grow in popularity, venues like Vygeboom Dam and establishments like OppiDam play an important role in supporting the sport. By combining productive waters with quality accommodation and a relaxed setting, they help create events that anglers look forward to year after year.

Whether you’re competing seriously, fishing socially, or simply enjoying time beside the water, Vygeboom Dam offers it all. With OppiDam as your base, a carp fishing competition becomes more than just an event - it becomes a memorable weekend where fishing, friendship and nature come together.