Night Fishing for Squid at Sea – Fresh Catch for Immediate Enjoyment

▲ The mascot of the 2013 Keelung Squid Season, “Squid-Chan.” (Photo / From the 2013 Keelung Squid Season Facebook page)

Tourism Center / Taipei Report

The 2013 Keelung Squid Season officially launched on the 24th. Those wanting to go out at night for a “Squid Night Visit” can start registering online. Departing from Bazha Fishing Port, you’ll watch fishermen catch squid and enjoy live commentary from guides on board. If watching others fish isn’t enough for you, you can also book a private squid-fishing trip through the Keelung City Government’s Industrial Development Division—trips will depart once 30 people have signed up. Fishermen will teach participants how to fish at night, with each person allowed three hours of fishing time for a fee of NT$800.

Known as the “Ocean City,” Keelung boasts a rich abundance of fish, shrimp, crabs, shellfish, and seaweed, with hundreds of varieties of seafood available. From June to August each year, it’s peak season for plump “squid (also called ‘small squid’)”. These squid average over 20 centimeters in length and are attracted to light at night, making evening the best time for squid fishing.

Organized by the Keelung City Government, the highlight of the “Squid Season” is the night-time boat trip for a “Squid Night Visit.” This year, 2,000 spots are available, with online registration opening on the 24th. The event runs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening from July 5 to July 20, with each trip lasting about 90 minutes. Activities include close-up experiences of squid-catching, as well as sea views of the illuminated Jiofen mountain town. Professional guides on board will provide commentary, and freshly caught squid can be enjoyed on the spot. For those who prefer to fish themselves, you can apply through the Keelung City Government’s Industrial Development Division to book a private fishing trip—once 30 people have signed up, you can set sail. Fishermen will teach you how to fish at night, with each person allowed three hours of fishing time for a fee of NT$800.

Additionally, the “Theme Day Carnival” of the Squid Season will take place on July 27 at Bazha Fishing Port. There will be free squid tastings, creative squid dishes, displays of squid fishery culture, and local agricultural and fishery specialties for sale on-site. Seafood lovers can pre-order the “Squid Season Gourmet Meal”—the first 600 people will receive a special souvenir worth NT$500, and those with a reservation number can also enter a lucky draw.