Video and photos by Liu Xudong

About 100 fishing boats set out from Nan’ao on Sunday as commercial fishing resumed in the South China Sea following a three-and-a-half-month seasonal suspension.

Visitors at the opening ceremony.

The 2026 Nan’ao Fishing Festival began at 11 a.m. at Shuangyong Wharf in Dapeng New District. At noon, when the summer fishing moratorium officially ended, the fleet sounded its horns before heading out to sea.

A visitor shows a crab to the camera.

The annual moratorium was intended to protect marine fish stocks during a key breeding and growth period. Its conclusion traditionally marked one of the most important occasions of the year for coastal fishing communities.

People interact with a kylin dance.

Sunday’s program included a kylin dance and performances of Dongshan fishing songs, two forms of local intangible cultural heritage. Fishing songs have traditionally been used by residents to express hopes for favorable weather, safety at sea and a plentiful catch.

Seafood dishes

A waterfront market offered fresh and dried seafood, local snacks and handicrafts inspired by the traditions of the Tanka fishing community. Seafood restaurants across Nan’ao introduced special menus featuring the day’s catch.

Many festivalgoers entered a free on-site draw for one of 60 portions of giant grouper. The fish, supplied by a local seafood company, weighs more than 50 kilograms. Each prize portion weighs about 400 grams, enough for two or three diners.

Fishing boats set out to the sea.

Visitors who present a photo taken at the festival can collect and mail a complimentary Nan’ao-themed postcard at the visitor center serving the Shuitousha and Moon Bay area. Limited-time vouchers offering a 10% discount on recreational fishing and sightseeing boat trips are distributed.

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