As temperatures plunge across Northeast Asia, Chagan Lake in Jilin Province has transformed into a frozen stage for one of China's most captivating cultural spectacles. The 2026 winter fishing season is now underway, with teams braving sub-zero conditions to continue a tradition dating back to the Liao and Jin dynasties.
This year's ceremonial first catch – a 26-kilogram sturgeon – fetched 1,699,999 yuan ($243,000) at auction, symbolizing both cultural preservation and economic vitality. The event has attracted photographers, cultural enthusiasts, and foodies from across Asia and beyond, with visitor numbers up 15% compared to last season.
Local fishing captain Wang Deli explained: 'We use ancestral methods – drilling through meter-thick ice and deploying kilometer-long nets. It's not just about the catch, but maintaining our connection to history.' The technique was recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage item in 2008.
Tourism authorities report increased interest from Southeast Asian travelers seeking winter experiences, while environmental scientists highlight the lake's stable fish stocks as a model for sustainable freshwater management.
