Community and Catch of the Day: WIS Families Hook Big Fun at Hardap Dam

The Windhoek International School (WIS) community came together for another spectacular weekend of sun, sport, and camaraderie at the second WIS Fishing Bonanza of the year. Held over the recent long weekend at Hardap Dam, the event brought parents and children together for friendly competition, outdoor education, and plenty of shared memories.

Passion Driving the Sport

A massive thank you must go to Hester and Pina, whose passion for angling and youth development made this entire weekend possible. Fishing is truly a family affair, as both Hester and Pina hold their own National colors and proudly represent Namibia on the international stage. Their daughter, Ariana Gubiani (Grade 3), is following right in their footsteps as a rising star in the sport, already holding her Namibian colors for shore angling and recently competing in the Penkoppe team against South Africa. Driven by their own expertise and love for the sport, Hester and Pina have poured their energy into creating an inclusive space for the WIS community to experience the joy of fishing.

More Than Just Fishing

While the friendly rivalry between parents and children on the water provided plenty of excitement, the weekend was packed with activities that kept everyone entertained:

• Boating & Braais: Families enjoyed scenic boat rides, a classic communal braai evening, and a festive burger night to close out the trip.

• Wildlife Education: The group was joined by a Hardap National Park officer, who captivated the children with the history of the park and fascinating facts about its wildlife.

Looking ahead, plans are already in motion to include a guided excursion to the other side of the national park so the children can view and learn even more about the local animals.

Casting Lines, Building Connections

Beyond the lines cast and the fish caught, the true success of the weekend was how it tightened the bonds within our school. The Fishing Bonanza has quickly evolved into a fantastic tradition that bridges the gap between different grade levels, allowing parents to connect and children to learn together in Namibia's beautiful outdoors.

What’s Next? Keep an eye out for upcoming announcements! Dates for the next academic year’s fishing weekends will be shared soon. Whether you are a seasoned pro or have never held a rod, all WIS families are welcome to join the fun.