Recreational fishing has become one of the fastest growing outdoor activities in the Republic of China in the past few years. With its maritime coastline and mountain streams, the island province of Taiwan provides an ideal fishing environment. Active people, armed with fishing rods, take advantage of any free time to head to the coast, streams or man-made fishing ponds where they can relax amidst the natural surroundings, forgetting for a moment the hectic pace of modern urban life. More than just a carefree pastime, fishing offers a rewarding experience.

As television meteorologist Feng P'engnien reports to a relieved audience that Typhoon Doyle has weakened in force and is moving in the direction of Okinawa, Chang Ch'eng-hui, an avid fisherman immediately phones for the latest fishing information. Hearing that conditions have stabilized he excitedly prepares his rod and tackle and then invites three of his close fishing friends. Early the next morning, with equipment and supplies packed, he entrusts the operations of his shop to his wife and is off answering the call of the water. Gone fishing.

The island environment of Taiwan province, while limited in its land area, has an extensive coastal region. Winding some 200 kilometers, the northeast coast from Tamsui to the Hualien, Suao area offers a flourishing maritime environment rich in fish species. Two of the west Pacific Ocean's major current systems, the cold Oyashio and the warm, equatorial Kuroshio currents meet in an area that extends to the northeast coast of Taiwan. The confluence of these currents produces a rich feeding ground for countless fish varieties. Another favorable natural feature is that the area sits on an extensive section of the continental shelf so that no matter what the nature of the coast, be it eroded, coral reef, rugged, boulder-strewn or man-made breakwater, all provide excellent fishing locales. Coupled with this promise of a sood catch is the added lure of spectacular natural scenery. This winning combination has created a fishing area that also boasts the double advantage of being a sightseer's dream. This "back-to-nature" environment definitely contributed to the rapid growth in the popularity of fishing along the northeast coast.

The recreational domestic coastal fishing activities have developed a slightly unusual innovation in response to certain realities. The coastal areas of the Republic of China pose certain safety problems that would make open fishing on the water unfeasible. Therefore, fishermen eager to meet the thrilling challenge of the bigger sports fish species have developed a long-range fishing line which can reach lengths of up to 600 meters. On stretches of the northeast coast, especially from Nanao to Taitung, the mixed sand/rock ocean bed drops sharply so that at 500 meters fishing lines can reach the grounds of many big sport fish.

According to most unconfirmed stories, this "super" line was developed by an elementary school teacher. In its earliest usage two men would go to the fishing area where one, suited with a life jacket and bearing the baited line would then swim out braving the elements and water placing the baited line in the designated area. The fisherman then waited on shore for the fish to strike. Today, licensed commercial fishermen are permitted to drop the bait line from their own fishing rafts or boats.

The rewards of such fishing forays are often large fish of at least close to 20 "Tai" kilograms (slightly lighter than a standard kilogram) or more. Among some of the game species caught are eels, rays, shark and some mammoth groupers. Last November, Chang Ch'eng-hui, fishing at Kufeng in the Suao area landed a 210 Tai kilogram ray, setting an individual east coast record.

Ocean fishing along areas like the east coast of the Republic of China offers two distinct environments: beach fishing and rocky, laccolith fishing. While the firm sand bed provides ideal footing, the rocky regions offer the best fishing with the added enticement of bigger fish species. It is no wonder then that ocean fishing in the rocky areas has become the fastest growing fishing activity in terms of participants.

In light of this fishermen and potential fishermen cannot afford to overlook the proper safety measures that need to be adhered to. Fishing expert, Lin Yu-t'ang sums it up by saying, "Even though people get hooked on fishing, it is an activity in which accidents can happen." This past November during one week there were 20 confirmed reports of people falling into the ocean while fishing. Of this total five lost their lives by drowning. It is imperative that fishermen prepare the proper equipment. An important factor to consider is that the environment is rugged and slippery so secure footing is crucial. Wear proper boots, those that are cleated or have small spikes to help make a secure footing. Other items to include are life jackets, or safety vest of some kind, a helmet or hard hat and as Ho An-hua, reporter for the Minsheng paper says, "don't go fishing alone." Your equipment should match your body's abilities. Don't fish beyond your limits-a large game fish can pull the weaker, unprepared angler in the water. A rule of thumb to remember, never let the water go above your kneecap. It is also strongly recommended that fishermen check with the local weather office as maritime climate conditions are apt to change suddenly.

In contrast to the rigorous demands of ocean fishing, stream fishing seems like a mild activity. The mountainous nature of the island's topography gives rise to a great many streams and rivulets. The uneven gradient, and rocky nature of the landscape creates stream flow patterns that form many small lakes, pools, ponds and shallow streams. This area is ideal for the growth of small fish species. Climatic influences, especially in the north flowing watershed are highlighted by ample rainfall totals throughout the year, thus ensuring adequate water levels. Experts point out that the best time to head to the mountains to fish is right after a period of continued, heavy rainfall when the stream's turbulence brings out a great number of fish.

Stream fishing unlike the rough ocean variety requires a sensitive, quick response, something that goes with experience. Stream fishing provides an added advantage, the natural beauty of the countryside. The trip to the fishing hole is an enjoyable excursion the whole family can enjoy. A trip to a mountain fishing area will be a two-sided pleasure, including fishing and natural scenery.

While both the coast and the stream are enticing areas, many people, due to their job or family obligations cannot afford the time to get away. In order to satisfy their love for fishing many private fishing ponds have been developed. Open to the public for a small fee, these stocked ponds are literally booked solid on weekends and holidays. At the present time the suburban Taipei area has over 200 of these ponds. The ponds usually charge per session, with a session lasting about 3 hours. The average charge is about US$7.50 to $12.00. Ponds are stocked according to fish species, allowing the fisherman a choice as to the variety he wishes to fish. Carp is the dominant species found in most of the ponds. They are also one of the tastiest fish species enjoyed by the people in the Republic of China.

The idea of paying for fishing has led some people to point out that this is not unlike gambling. Fishing, with its emphasis on enjoyment and challenge is an activity that brings with it simple joys and pleasures. The fish being hooked and the ensuing fight create a special feeling of enjoyment that should be tried by all outdoor enthusiasts.

[Picture Caption]

1. Standing on the rugged coastal rocks, facing the crashing surf-coastal fishing is both addicting and exciting. 2. The northeast corner of the island, with its unusual rock formations and rich seaweed beds which attract schools of fish, has developed naturally into a fisherman's paradise.

1. Fishing is similar to the game of golf. According to the type of fish the fisherman wishes to catch, he must match that with the most suitable fishing rod and equipment. 2. Equipment used for larger fish species. The thick rod and extra long line are special features of Taiwan's long-line rods.

1. This type of bountiful catch is every fisherman's dream. 2. Facing the open coast, this fishing fan exerts all his effort in landing his catch. 2. Facing the open coast, this fishing fan exerts all his energy in landing his catch.

1.Even in the midst of modern high-rise building, a small pond and the shade of a colorful umbrella provide this avid fisherman with a bit of natural expanse. 2. While dad fishes, I watch the other activity, but when the fish bites, he calls me.

2. The northeast corner of the island, with its unusual rock formations and rich seaweed beds which attract schools of fish, has developed naturally into a fisherman's paradise.

1. Fishing is similar to the game of golf. According to the type of fish the fisherman wishes to catch, he must match that with the most suitable fishing rod and equipment.

2. Facing the open coast, this fishing fan exerts all his effort in landing his catch. 2. Facing the open coast, this fishing fan exerts all his energy in landing his catch.

1. This type of bountiful catch is every fisherman's dream.

1.Even in the midst of modern high-rise building, a small pond and the shade of a colorful umbrella provide this avid fisherman with a bit of natural expanse. 2.

While dad fishes, I watch the other activity, but when the fish bites, he calls me.