Land-based Squid Jigging Gains Popularity in Terengganu

CHUKAI, April 7 (Bernama) -- While Terengganu has long been known for its squid jigging activities, which are among the state’s main tourist attractions each year, a new phenomenon, ‘candat darat’ (land-based squid jigging), has now emerged, offering anglers and the public the opportunity to catch squid right from the shoreline.

One of the hotspots is a jetty at Pantai Kijal near here, which has been crowded with anglers and visitors every evening until late at night over the past week.

One of the anglers, Abdullah Hassan, 42, from Paka, Dungun, said most anglers and locals fish for squid in the area using an artificial lure known as an ‘egi’, which resembles a shrimp.

“Land-based squid jigging only takes place for about two months, in April and May, compared to offshore jigging, which lasts longer, from late March to August. During this period, needle squid are easily caught as they move closer to shore in search of food such as shrimp and small fish, and to spawn.

“Besides fishing along the shoreline, this jetty is also a suitable location as it allows people to venture slightly further out to sea without having to board a boat,” he told Bernama at Pantai Kijal here.

Abdullah said land-based jigging is usually done between 6 pm and midnight, as squid are more active at night in search of food.

Meanwhile, Mohd Ghazali Rahman, 51, from Meraga Beris in Kijal near here, said more than 100 anglers flock daily to the approximately 300-metre jetty for land-based squid jigging.

He said he came three times since last week, managing to catch more than 10 needle squid during each three-hour session.

“Land-based squid jigging is gaining popularity among anglers because the cost is lower compared to renting a boat to fish offshore,” he said.

He added that the jetty is among his preferred spots due to its lively atmosphere, as well as several beaches in Kemaman, such as Pantai Kerteh, Pantai Penunjuk and Pantai Kuala Kemaman, which have also become popular locations.

Meanwhile, a retired soldier, Said Nan, 66, said he and his wife, Mek Kemas Mohamad, 58, often spend their free time fishing for fish and crabs at Pantai Kijal while enjoying the tranquility of the beach.

However, he said they are currently focusing on squid jigging as it is now in season.

“Catch yields can sometimes be unpredictable. There are days when we get plenty, and others when the catch is minimal,” he said.

-- BERNAMA