The Wilge River is a tributary of the Vaal River in central South Africa, taking its name from the Afrikaans word for "willow" — a fitting tribute to the willow trees that grow abundantly along its banks. Originating in the Drakensberg at an elevation of approximately 2,040 meters (6,690 feet), about 50 kilometers northeast of Harrismith near the KwaZulu-Natal border, the river flows through valleys and plains before ultimately converging with the Vaal Dam. Along its course, the Wilge passes through the eastern Free State and supports a rich variety of wildlife, with kingfishers, herons, and fish eagles commonly spotted along the riverbanks. The river is an important component of the Tugela-Vaal Water Transfer Scheme, which transfers water from the Tugela River basin into the Vaal River basin. With broad pools, gravel runs, and stretches of crystal-clear water during certain seasons, the Wilge offers a rewarding and scenic fishing experience for both novice and experienced anglers.