"Awakening the Net on the Icy Lake, Fishing Leaps Through Millennia." On January 15th, the 11th Jingpohu Lake Winter Fishing Festival in China and the first Jingpohu Lake Winter Ice Fishing Challenge in Mudanjiang kicked off. A grand winter feast combining cultural experiences, ecological sightseeing, and sports competitions unfolded splendidly by the shores of Jingpohu.

At around 11 a.m., on the frozen surface of the millennium-old grand winter fishing theme area at the villa dock of Jingpohu Lake Scenic Area, fishermen chanted as they slowly lowered the fishing net beneath the ice—a scene that embodies both reverence for nature and the inheritance of a millennia-old fishing culture. "Cast the net and fish, heave ho, heave ho, catch the lake crucian, heave ho, heave ho..." The "fishing leader," clad in a sheepskin coat and a wide belt around his waist, let out a resounding chant that pierced through the biting wind. The fishermen echoed in unison, turning the winch as a kilometer-long net was gradually pulled out from under the ice. Steam rose from the ice holes, and lively lake fish leaped onto the frozen surface, their silver scales glistening like stars. Tourists eagerly raised their phones to capture the spectacular moment of "fish leaping on the icy river."

Millennium Ice Fishing, a Bowl of Fish and Rice Delight. The fishing culture of Jingpohu Lake dates back to the Tang Dynasty, when fishermen would drill through the ice to catch fish during the harsh winter. This survival wisdom of battling the brutal nature has been passed down through generations, evolving into a cultural feast that transcends time. Today, the Jingpohu Lake Winter Fishing Festival has become a nationally recognized model of fishery cultural celebration, once setting a record with a single net haul of 860,000 jin. This year, the "first net" alone yielded 28,000 jin of fish.

"This year's 'first fish' weighs over 10 pounds." Cao Taiyou, the leader of the fishery at Jingpohu Lake Aquaculture Farm, lifted the "first fish" and displayed this "first gift" from beneath the frozen lake to the surrounding crowd. "Touch the fish's head for good fortune in the new year; touch its back for smooth sailing and success..." Staff carried freshly netted lake fish toward the eagerly waiting crowd, sparking waves of cheers and camera shutter sounds. After the live display, Mudanjiang City broke from the traditional auction of the "first fish" during the Winter Fishing Festival, instead gifting the symbolic "first fish," representing luck and bountiful harvest, to "National Labor Model" Zhang Ruiyong. This gesture paid tribute to the most admirable workers, making this year's "first fish" even more meaningful.

This year’s Winter Fishing Festival also incorporated festive performances such as grand drumming, winter fishing songs, northeastern folk yangko dances, and lion dances. Over 10 ice and snow recreational activities were introduced, including snowmobiling and photo spots at the Diaoshuilou Ice Waterfall, allowing visitors to enjoy the ice and snow while experiencing the profound local history and culture. The winter fishing activities will continue until mid-to-late February, with daily performances of ice fishing or small-net fishing.

Ice fishing brings fish leaping from frozen lakes, while winter angling begins with breaking the ice. At the inaugural Jingpohu Lake Winter Fishing Challenge in Ice Super·Mudanjiang, over 40 fishing enthusiasts set up ice-fishing tents on the frozen surface, holding their rods patiently as they waited for a catch. Competing in temperatures as low as -20°C, they showcased the sporting spirit of "friendship through fishing and self-challenge." "Ice fishing tests not just skill but also endurance. Fishing on Jingpohu’s ice lets me appreciate nature’s beauty while enjoying the thrill of competition. This unique experience has made me fall in love with winter sports," said contestant Luan Hongliang.

A single net opens the frozen lake, stirring up the joy of a bountiful year. This feast amid the ice connects nature’s gifts, cultural heritage, and modern life, weaving a warm and enduring winter tapestry that strides toward a more vibrant spring.

Content and image sources: CCTV Video, Xinhua News Client, Mudanjiang Daily