Deep in the heart of the Eurasian continent, thousands of kilometers from the sea, Xinjiang is making an unexpected splash in the salmon fishing industry. Nestled northwest of Nilka County, the Jilintai Reservoir is fed by melting snow from the towering Tianshan Mountains, providing a consistent cold-water environment ideal for salmon.
In 2021, an organic agriculture company introduced salmon farming to this inland region, sparking new economic growth and fresh employment opportunities. Among those embracing this wave of change is former herder Ayhen Baghdaulet, who ventured into salmon farming and embarked on a drastic career transformation.
“I never imagined trading my herding life for fish farming,” Ayhen shares. Since joining the fish farming base, he’s mastered the art of salmon cultivation and harvesting. This shift not only increased his income but also brought newfound knowledge and joy to his life.
The success story of Ayhen and the burgeoning salmon industry highlight Xinjiang’s potential for innovative agriculture. As more locals dive into aquaculture, Xinjiang is poised to become a surprising new hub for salmon fishing, transforming lives and boosting the local economy.
