Celebrate the Centennial National Fishermen's Festival – Vote for Sea Travel Routes and Win Prizes

By Chi Bing-hui, compiled and reported

Taiwan’s fishing industry is well-developed, whether it’s the black-golden cuttlefish roe or tuna sashimi, all are the most delicious and unforgettable flavors. But while indulging in seafood, don’t forget the hard work of fishermen battling the winds and waves and carefully farming the waters. Taiwan is one of the world’s six major distant-water fishing nations, and its aquaculture techniques are renowned worldwide, especially its grouper industry, which leads the globe with an annual output value exceeding NT$3.8 billion. To celebrate the Centennial National Fishermen's Festival, the Council of Agriculture has specially launched the theme “A Dialogue between Fisheries and the Ocean.” From now until August 10th, participate in the “Summer Embrace the Ocean Route Vote” for a chance to take home the “Ocean Delicacy Gift Box”!

The theme “A Dialogue between Fisheries and the Ocean” takes the public through the journey of fisheries progressing from hardship to prosperity. It showcases the early ways of fishing boats in operation, and unveils rarely seen fishing techniques—from the abundant catch of gillnet fishing vessels to the power and beauty of harpoon swordfishing, like a snapshot of the history of fisheries. It also introduces uniquely local fish species: the grey mullet that migrates to southern Taiwan every winter, also known as the “messenger fish”; the tuna industry with outstanding export achievements; and the “Taiwan tilapia,” which has shed its “earthy” reputation and stepped onto the world stage.