A senior Cormorant fisherman smoking an improvised cigar


Cormorant fishing is a traditional fishing method that was developed in China and Japan 1300 years ago. Today, cormorant fishing takes place in very few places in China. In some of these places, the fishing is actually for subsistence and livelihood, but in more and more places, serves as a demonstration, encouraging tourism and preserving the ancient culture.

Cormorant fishing is a tradition in danger of extinction, and it is possible that the current generation of fishermen, who range in age from 70 to 80, will be the last to preserve this ancient tradition. There are a few reasons for this. Global warming and increased environmental pollution cause a decrease in the number of fish in rivers and lakes.


