Centuries-old Chagan Lake Fishing in China

What is Chagan Lake Fishing?

Chagan Lake Winter Fishing is a centuries-old tradition that has been practiced in northeastern China for over 2,000 years. It is a spectacular event that draws tens of thousands of visitors each year, both from China and abroad, to witness the annual fishing harvest on the frozen lake. Chagan Lake fishing is famous for its traditional methods, the incredible scale of the fishing activities, and the cultural significance it holds for local communities. It has become one of China's most iconic winter events and is now recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.
 

The fishing techniques used here, which include the traditional Mongolian fishing methods, have been passed down through generations and remain largely unchanged. This fishing event is not only about the catch itself but also about the culture, tradition, and spiritual beliefs that accompany it. During the fishing season, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from watching the fishermen perform their rituals to bidding for the first big catch of the day.

Where is the Chagan Lake?

Chagan Lake is located in the northwest of Qian Gorlos Mongol Autonomous County, in Songyuan City, Jilin Province, China. The lake covers an impressive 420 square kilometers and is the largest freshwater lake in Jilin Province, as well as one of the eight largest freshwater lakes in China. The name "Chagan" comes from the Mongolian language, meaning "sacred," "pure," or "white," reflecting the pristine and revered nature of the lake.
 

Chagan Lake is known for its pure water and its rich diversity of fish species. Over 70 different fish species inhabit the lake, with the Variegated Carp (bighead fish) being the most sought-after catch during the winter fishing season. The cold temperatures, often dropping to -40°C (-40°F), provide an ideal environment for fishing during the winter months. Despite the extreme weather, the event attracts tourists from across the world who want to experience this unique cultural and ecological phenomenon.

How does Chagan Lake Fishing Origin?

The tradition of winter fishing in Chagan Lake dates back to prehistoric times, though it gained significant popularity during the Liao (907-1125) and Jin (1115-1234) dynasties in China. The cold winters in this region created an ideal environment for ice fishing, and fishermen discovered that fishing in the winter allowed them to preserve fish for longer periods, making it easier to transport them.
 

The practice became an integral part of the local culture, especially among the Mongolian and Han people who lived near the lake. Fishermen would not only catch fish for consumption but also sell them to markets, including distant cities. Over time, this tradition developed into a spectacular winter event, attracting people from all walks of life to witness the fishing season's grand spectacle.
 

As Chagan Lake fishing became a cultural heritage, it gained national recognition. In 2009, the Chinese State Council officially declared Chagan Lake Fishing as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage of China. Since then, the fishing event has only grown in popularity, attracting tourists, cultural enthusiasts, and photographers from around the world.

When does the Chagan Lake Fishing Begin This Year?

Chagan Lake fishing typically begins in mid-December and continues through mid-January of the following year. This is the peak time when the ice on the lake is thick enough to support the heavy fishing equipment and the large crowds of visitors. During the season, local fishermen will haul in over 1 million kilograms (around 2.2 million pounds) of fish.
 

The exact dates can vary slightly each year, depending on the weather conditions and when the ice forms thick enough to safely start fishing. For instance, in 2017, the fishing season was estimated to run from December 26 to February 2018. Typically, the fishing ends by late January or early February, marking the end of the fishing season and the beginning of preparations for the Chinese New Year celebrations.

How do they Exactly Catch Fish on the Icy Chagan Lake?

First, each fishing team has a leader who is the most experienced one to pick out a spot on the ice to identify that which area would be most possible fishing area of the vast frozen lake;

Second, the team members will drill many holes through the thick ice and then place net or fishhooks under the ice;

Then usually after 20 to 40 minutes the fishermen and together with their horse driving carriages draw in the net full of fish from the frozen Chagan Lake;

Usually, the biggest or the most fresh bighead fish in the first single net would be bid by the team or the willing payers among the thousands visitors aside the scene;

In the end, all the fish they get would be packed and distributed to the whole sale market to become the delicious traditional Chinese new year meal on families’ table.

What to see of the Chagan Lake Fishing?

Opening Ceremony:

The fishing season kicks off with a grand opening ceremony, which is a blend of cultural and spiritual rituals. The ceremony, known as the "offer sacrifice to the lake, wake up the net," is held to pray for a good harvest of fish. Local monks perform Mongolian religious dances, read Buddhist scriptures, and sing eulogies to honor the lake and ensure a bountiful catch. Various offerings, including milk cheese and other symbolic items, are placed on the ice as tributes to the lake and the fishing ancestors.
 

The ceremony takes place at the Yugang Wharf, located on the north bank of Chagan Lake.

Cultural Activities

During the fishing season, visitors can enjoy a variety of cultural performances, including Mongolian dances, folk music, and even horse-drawn carriage rides across the lake. Many visitors take part in interactive activities, like trying their hand at ice fishing or participating in the bidding for fish.

World Record Fishing

In 2009, a single net caught a record-breaking 168,000 kg (about 370,000 lbs) of fish, setting a Guinness World Record for the largest fish catch by a single net. This event was a historic moment for Chagan Lake fishing and drew global attention to the lake’s traditional fishing practices.

Ticket Fare and Open Time

Entrance Fee: Free to visit
Open Time: 8:00-18:00 to public

Best Time to Visit:The best time to visit Chagan Lake is during the winter fishing season, typically from mid-December to mid-January. This period provides the best opportunity to witness the fishing activities, the opening ceremony, and other cultural performances. Visiting during these months also ensures that you will experience the full cultural significance of this time-honored tradition.

How to get there?

• From Harbin:
  Take a long-distance bus (approximately 4 hours) from Harbin to Songyuan City.

• From Changchun:
  Take a long-distance bus (approximately 2 hours) from Changchun to Songyuan City.

• From Songyuan City:
  Take the special tourist bus from Meng Bali (Dreamy Paris) or Passenger Bus Station in Songyuan City to Chagan Lake.

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