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There’s nothing quite as satisfying as catching your own seafood and reaping the rewards of waiting patiently for a good catch. Lucky then that there are several water-bound adventures to be had in Hong Kong, keeping our thirst for adventure—and our appetites—nicely satiated. So grab your fishing rod, because it’s time to get wild and find some dinner. Here’s how to go fishing and catch your own seafood in Hong Kong.
The waters of Hong Kong are home to a whole host of fish such as wahoo, mahi-mahi, tuna, sailfish, and even the elusive black marlin. If you’re itching to catch that big one, there are plenty of opportunities with TailChasers, one of Hong Kong’s charter fishing companies. Led by avid fisherman and captain Kim Stuart, who has lived in the city for over 30 years, you will be given all the equipment, knowledge, and expert tips you need to catch your delicious dinner.
The company boasts some pretty impressive vessels, too, including the 46-feet Bertram which has an up-to-date glass cockpit and is fully stocked with all the rods, reels, and lures you can dream of. Just make sure you pack lots of sun lotion, sunglasses, and a comfortable hat for this epic outdoor adventure at sea. Outings start from around $2,000 and depart from the Aberdeen Boat Club.
TailChasers, Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen | (+852) 9122 0695
Note: Due to maintenance issues, TailChasers has suspended operations for the 2020 fishing season but will return for the 2021 season.
Jump aboard a junk boat and embark on a nighttime squid fishing extravaganza in Sai Kung or Tseung Kwan O. Along with a group of your nearest and dearest, you can have barrels of laughs attempting to catch these slippery little guys in the open water with a simple line and hook device. Since squid are attracted to light, this means that you get to head out after dark too, making this seafood adventure all the more exciting. But be sure to wear dark clothing as squid have been known to squirt black ink when they get a little fright!
Amid a dark ocean lit by only the bright lights of your fishing boat, you will have the chance to watch the boat crew fry up your oceanic loot straight after the catch. But fear not if you have no joy with your rod as there are also squid fishing packages that include a buffet to keep you well fed. Check out our guide to squid fishing in Hong Kong for available charter options and packages.
From pebble-sized to palm-sized, there are clams aplenty in Hong Kong just waiting to be enjoyed. The village of Shui Hau on southern Lantau is a haven for these tasty little critters, often drawing in crowds of adventurous locals and tourists to its shores on a sunny day during the low tide (where the water recedes between 12 pm and 6 pm). In addition to clams, this area is also home to many crabs and oysters, so you may end up with a variety of tasty little treasures to feast on at the end of the day.
For a few dollars, you can rent all the equipment you need, such as clam rakes, bottles, and stools to sit on, from the nearby Fung Wong Bungalow, and the staff there will even cook up your clams for you afterwards. To get there, simply take Exit B at Tung Chung MTR, walk to the nearby bus terminal, hop on bus 11 (Tai O-bound) or 23 (Ngong Ping-bound), and jump off at the Shui Hau Village stop. Happy clam hunting!
Fung Wong Bungalow Centre, 44 Shui Hau Village, Lantau (+852) 2980 2325
If you fancy something a little more relaxing and slow-paced, then why not head to one of Hong Kong’s 17 reservoirs and try your luck at fishing? Open to the public for fishing in the non-spawning season, which runs from 1 September to 31 March of the next year, these waters are home to a variety of freshwater beauties such as wild carp, mud carp, and tilapia.
Among the best spots for fishing are Plover Cove in the New Territories and Shek Pik along the southwestern coast of Lantau Island. You will, of course, need a fishing license to fish in the reservoirs, but you can apply for one from the Water Supplies Department for a piddly $30 if you are over 13 years old. Applications are accepted throughout the year and the licence is valid for three years, giving you plenty of time to master your hunter-gatherer skills. Visit the Water Supplies Department for more information.
Sophie is always on the lookout for a great story and her next big adventure and loves nothing more than discovering the city’s hidden gems—and most delicious cocktails. When she’s not exploring new places, she’s off travelling and ticking countries off her bucket list.
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