Sanma Fishing Frenzy at the Harbor: An Abundance of Catch and Some Troubles

In recent years, Sanma, a popular autumn delicacy, has seen an unusual occurrence in the waters of northern Japan. Normally caught in deeper waters, schools of Sanma have been approaching the piers, providing a unique opportunity for local and visiting fishermen.

On a recent 3-day weekend, crowds of people gathered at the Aomori Harbor, driven by the allure of catching Sanma. Even in the rain, they fished diligently under the light of their headlamps, and it took only 23 seconds to hook one.

Sanma, known for its tendency to be attracted to light, made night fishing a common sight, with many fishermen using headlights and floodlights to catch them. Some even managed to handle three fishing rods simultaneously.

Social media was filled with reports of impressive catches, with some people claiming to have caught hundreds of Sanma. Families and enthusiasts gathered to enjoy the thrill of catching their own delicious meal. However, the increasing number of visitors brought with it challenges like littering and parking issues. Some even violated restricted areas, causing concerns for local residents and fishermen.

Despite these challenges, the abundance of Sanma provided a unique and delightful experience for those who made the journey to the harbor, where they could savor the rich and flavorful fish in various traditional and creative dishes.