The 24th Chagan Lake Ice and Snow Fishing and Hunting Cultural Tourism Festival opened this week in Jilin Province, drawing global attention as a 19-kilogram "first fish" fetched a historic 1,699,999 yuan ($238,000) at auction. Proceeds will fund ecological protection efforts to preserve the lake's water quality and fish populations, reinforcing the event’s dual role in celebrating tradition and supporting sustainability.
Against a backdrop of -20°C temperatures, visitors witnessed fishermen using horse-drawn winches to haul nets through thick ice—a method unchanged for centuries. The spectacle, accompanied by cheers from thousands, highlights northeast China’s rich cultural heritage and resilience in extreme conditions.
Beyond fishing, the festival features snow football leagues and ice hockey tournaments, positioning Chagan Lake as a hub for winter sports. Local authorities report increased tourism revenue this year, with accommodations fully booked through January.
