The Breede River
The Breede River or Breë River’s source is in the Swartberg Mountains running in a west-to-east direction. The rivers named by the early settlers as the Titus River and Dwars River were renamed the Breë River.
The catchment area of 12,384Â km2Â (4,781 feeds the 337Â km length of the river. It passes through the towns of Worcester, Robertson, and Swellendam, before reaching the Indian Ocean at Witsand
The Brandvlei Dam on the river which was completed in 1936 and extended by 1987, provides water to several irrigation schemes in the region.:
Fish in the Brandvlei Dam include carp, bass, and whitefish,.  Fishing code of practice This dam is also known as Kwaggaskloof Dam, consists of two dams; when the water level is high, the wall separating the two is submerged.
Fish in the Breede River include Cob and Garrick. This in turn attracts fish eagles and kingfishers to name just two beautiful birds to encourage the avid bird watcher to visit.
Bull Sharks often enter the estuary of the Breede River. Sometimes they are even seen as far as 5 km upriver. They have a habit of stealing fishermen’s catches. They then feed and gain weight without expending much energy. This habit leaves the sharks well-fed and most likely is the reason that shark attacks on humans are not found in this area.
The Breede River is navigable by small boats, it is a popular location for river rafting tours, cruises and other water sports.
The river is popular with anglers, and rainbow trout dominate the mountain tributaries such as the Elandsplaat, Holsloot and Molenaars rivers; however, brown trout dominate the upper Witte River. The Breede River supports carp, smallmouth bass, catfish and some whitefish
Die Stroom is a great spot for a picnic on the grassy, shady banks. Swimming is safe in the calm waters (canoeing is allowed, and fishing with a permit). There are scales and tape measure facilities so that fishermen can weigh their fish. Braai spots, seating, and tables, as well as ablution facilities, are all available. There is a nominal fee for entrance, and special rates for South Africans. ( The site is run by the Swellendam municipality)
