Tierpoort Dam - nr Bloemfontein, Free State

Tierpoort Dam, located near Bloemfontein in the Free State, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking leisure activities in a scenic setting. The dam provides an ideal environment for water-based recreation, including fishing, boating, and canoeing. Anglers often visit Tierpoort Dam for fishing opportunities, as it is known to be well-stocked with various fish species, including carp and yellowfish.

Apart from water sports, the surrounding area offers opportunities for picnicking, bird watching, and nature walks. Visitors can enjoy relaxing amidst the natural beauty, take in views of the dam, and spot a variety of bird species that frequent the area. The serene and relatively undeveloped environment makes it a peaceful escape for families, friends, and nature lovers looking to spend quality time outdoors. Camping facilities may also be available nearby, enhancing the experience for those wishing to stay overnight and fully enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Tierpoort Dam.

Originally commissioned in 1923, the Tierpoort Dam, near Bloemfontein, was reconstructed in 1990 after severe flooding washed it away in 1988. The dam is an earthfill dam which means that instead of having a large concrete dam wall it has been constructed using a simple embankment of well compacted earth. Over the past years there have been times when the Dam has run completely dry, it is said that it is expected to run dry once every 5 to 10 years. It is not unusual at this time to see council workers netting the dam for Carp which then gets distributed into the local communities.