Traditional Thonga Fish Traps, Kosi Bay Estuary

A detailed documentary photograph of the traditional "kraal" fish traps in the Kosi Bay lake system, part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. These intricate palisade structures are hand-built by the Thonga people using local mangrove poles and woven lianas, following a sustainable design that has remained virtually unchanged for over 700 years. The traps are strategically placed to guide migrating fish into a series of heart-shaped enclosures, allowing smaller juveniles to pass through while capturing mature fish. This image captures the unique intersection of ancient cultural heritage and marine conservation in one of South Africa’s most pristine coastal environments.Traditional Thonga Fish Traps, Kosi Bay Estuary