Fishing fleet from Qingdao WCNA sets sail

Over 3,400 fishing vessels departed Qingdao ports at noon on Sept 1, officially concluding the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea summer fishing moratorium.

At Jimiyadao Port in the Qingdao West Coast New Area, nearly 300 boats rushed toward traditional fishing grounds. Hours prior to departure, crews engaged in frantic preparations by mending nets, replenishing ice, and stocking provisions like fresh water and soy sauce to ensure readiness for the demanding harvest ahead.

Following tradition, smaller coastal boats are expected to return by evening to unload the season's inaugural catch. However, the primary seafood influx — featuring ribbonfish, mackerel, and pomfret — will arrive during the early hours, promising an abundant supply of fresh marine delicacies for local markets.

Lined up in tight formation, fishing vessels stand ready at the port. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

A close-up view of a deep-blue fishing boat heading out to sea, its red flag fluttering in the wind. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

A drone view of fishing boats leaving the harbor as the fishing season kicks off. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]