The ice-covered Chagan Lake in China’s Jilin Province has once again become the center of excitement as the annual winter fishing festival kicks off. Nestled in Songyuan City, Chagan Lake is one of China’s largest freshwater lakes, renowned for its abundant fishery resources and centuries-old winter fishing traditions dating back to the Liao and Jin dynasties.
The festival begins with a solemn ceremony where fishermen and locals pay tribute to nature’s bounty and wish for a fruitful harvest. This ancient ritual provides visitors with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
As part of the tradition, fishermen manually drill holes through the thick ice, set expansive nets beneath the frozen surface, and use horse-drawn winches to haul in nets teeming with fish. These spectacular scenes draw tourists from across China and around the world, eager to witness and participate in this timeless practice.
One of the festival’s most anticipated events is the auction of the season’s “First Fish,” considered a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. Last year’s auction saw the prized catch sold for a remarkable 1,199,999 yuan (approximately $164,000), highlighting the cultural significance and enthusiasm surrounding the festival.
This winter, the total catch from the lake is expected to reach around 1,500 tons. Beyond the fishing activities, the festival also features a variety of cultural and tourism events, allowing visitors to fully experience the vibrant traditions and unique charm of Chagan Lake’s fishing culture.
Recognized for its cultural importance, the winter fishing at Chagan Lake was included in China’s national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. The festival not only preserves ancient customs but also brings economic benefits to the local community through tourism and sustainable fishing practices.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
