Wednesday, August 12, 2009

GENERAL BOTTOM FISHING DESTINATIONS

Angling in Malaysia
INTRODUCTION

The variety of freshwater and marine environments in Malaysia offer a vast scope of angling opportunities. Whether for serious game fishing or fun, Malaysia boasts a plethora of angling destinations. However, proper planning is essential when considering serious angling in Malaysia. Target species must be identified, timing and seasons also need to be taken into account. A well-organised Malaysian fishing package may prove to be the difference between success and failure.
FRESHWATER FISHING

Malaysia’s rivers and natural and man make lakes are home to over 300 species of freshwater fish of which around 40 species can be caught on rod and line.
The prime freshwater sport fish include the ferocious Giant Snakehead, the fast running Malaysian Jungle Perch, the Giant Featherback, the massive fresh water Catfish and the elusive but powerful Malaysian Mahseer.
The Giant Snakehead or "Toman” is a powerful fighter and can attain a weight of more than 20kg. However, common catches average around the 5 to 10kg mark. The Giant Featherback or “Belida” also attains a size of over 20kg while the Catfish or “Tapah” can reach more than 50kg. The Malaysian Mahseer, a sub species of the Indian Mahseer, is probably one of the most powerful of the freshwater fish. Although not as big as its Indian cousin, it nevertheless provides excellent sport. Arovana or “Kelisa” as known locally is a totally protected species. Now only caught in the more remote areas, this fish is a superb fighter, but must be released if caught. Freshwater fishing can be relatively easy with may pay ponds in close proximity to all west coast Peninsula Malaysia towns. Also there are few resort fisheries which offer a wide range of accommodation, a variety of activities and well-shocked fishing ponds. For the more hardy angler, jungle excursions which may involve trekking and camping can be arranged. A few excellent fishing centres are also be found on the fringes of Malaysia’s massive man made lakes.

SEA FISHING
The seas of Malaysia offer a wide diversity of depth, terrain and fish species. The west coast of Peninsula Malaysia is primarily a bottom fishing are. Depths rarely exceed 100 metres and quality table such as grouper, snapper and threadfin are the main quarry. Sailfish and Narrowbarred Mackerel are found seasonally while Giant Trevally and Barracuda are quite common catches. In contrast, the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, off the distant Island of Aur, Pemanggil and Tioman is home to big game fish, the Black Marlin being the most famous. Other game fish include Sailfish, Giant Trevally, Dolphinfish (Mahi-Mahi), Cobia, Mackerel and Barracuda. The Marlin of Malaysia’s east coast average between 50kg to 150kg. The Borneo coast of the South China Sea also offer also offer excellent big game fishing with the island of Labuan being centrally located to these prime fishing areas. The east coast of Sabah bordering the Sulu and Sulawesi seas, with water over 2000 metres in depth, boast both excellent bottom fishing around reef areas and top class game fishing with Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin,Bigeye and Dogtooth Tuna.

The picture on the right is the Ocean Reel luxury boat for deep and leisure fishing and day and short cruises in Langkawi.

Very few fishing organizers, however, provide a full service including tackle, fishing masters and customized itineraries. Should you wish to fish in Malaysia, it is advisable to arrange your trip through the experts. With angling in Malaysia still in its infancy, opportunities to land that “big one” are real. Fishing can be a one day affair or a 2 week affair. It all depends on one’s quarry and destinations. Whether you are a serious angler or a fun fisherman, Malaysia offers the best for both.

Prime Freshwater Fishing Destinations
• Tasik Kenyir
• Tasik Temenggor
• Tasik Chenderoh

The above are made make lakes built for hydro electric power. The fishing areas are the flooded rivers that feed the lakes in the more remote higher reaches. Accommodation is fairly basic, but clean, while the fishing can be excellent
• Tasik Chini
• Tasik Bera

These are both natural lakes set in peat swap areas. Fairly shallow, they offer a wide variety of species with reasonable accommodation

• Upper Endau River
• Kuala Koh
• Kuala Tahan

The Endau river is primarily situated is the Endau- Rombin National Park bordering the states of Pahang and Johore while Kuala Koh and Kuala Tahan are situated in Taman Negara. They al boast beautiful waters, rapids, waterfalls, jungle clad river banks and a wide diversity of flora and fauna. Accommodation of various levels is available in each area. These pristine rivers provide excellent fishing.

NAME LOCAL NAME
Giant Snakehead
Snakehead
Giant Featherback
Malaysian Mahseer
Malaysian Jungle Perch
Giant Catfish
Common Catfish
Giant Gourami
Grass Carp
Javanese Carp
Arowana ( protected)
Toman
Haruan/Bujuk
Belida
Kedah
Kelah
Sebarau
Baung
Kalui
Kap Rumput or Tongsan
Lampan Jawa
Kelisa
PRIME SEA FISHING DESTINATION
Game Fishing

• Pulau Aur, Pemanggil and Tioman

The above and other small islands off the coast of northern Johor and Southern Pahang on the South China Sea are prime Black Marlin grounds.

• Pulau Perak/Tukun Perak

Midway between Langkawi and Penang at the southern end of the Andaman Sea. This island/atoll destination is remote indeed, but the fishing is excellent.

• Labuan/lucornia Shoals

Lying just off the coast of Sabah, the offshore banking centre of Labuan is the disembarkation point for regional game fishing.

• Mabul Island/ Sulawesi Sea

With waters of over 2000 metres in depth, this area is the centre for yellowfin Tuna fishing in Malaysia.

COMMONLY LANDED SEA FISH
NAME LOCAL NAME

Black Marlin
Saltfidh
Dolphinfish (Mahi-Mahi) (Dorado)
Giant Trevally
Great Barracuda
Narrowbarred Mackerel
Yellowfish Tuna
Wahoo
Rainbow Runner
Grouper
Red Snapper
Golden Snapper
Sharks
Suji
Layar-layar
Belitong
Debam
Alu-alu
Tenggiri
Aya
Tenggiri Batang
Pisang – pisang
Kerapu
Ikan Merah
Jenahak
Ikan Yu

GENERAL BOTTOM FISHING DESTINATIONS
• Straits of Malacca

From Johor to Penang, there are many off points for bottom fishing. Tides and currents need to be taken into account before venturing out. Very fast currents associated with the full moon and the new moon are to be avoided.

• East coast Peninsula

Most coastal waters offer good fishing for snappers and groupers with Cobia, Sailfish and Rays being fairly common.

• West coast Sabah and Sarawak

The many offshore-shoals boats boast fine fishing similar to the above

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Angling in Malaysia

INTRODUCTION

The variety of freshwater and marine environments in Malaysia offer a vast scope of angling opportunities. Whether for serious game fishing or fun, Malaysia boasts a plethora of angling destinations. However, proper planning is essential when considering serious angling in Malaysia. Target species must be identified, timing and seasons also need to be taken into account. A well-organised Malaysian fishing package may prove to be the difference between success and failure.
FRESHWATER FISHING

Malaysia’s rivers and natural and man make lakes are home to over 300 species of freshwater fish of which around 40 species can be caught on rod and line.
The prime freshwater sport fish include the ferocious Giant Snakehead, the fast running Malaysian Jungle Perch, the Giant Featherback, the massive fresh water Catfish and the elusive but powerful Malaysian Mahseer.
The Giant Snakehead or "Toman” is a powerful fighter and can attain a weight of more than 20kg. However, common catches average around the 5 to 10kg mark. The Giant Featherback or “Belida” also attains a size of over 20kg while the Catfish or “Tapah” can reach more than 50kg. The Malaysian Mahseer, a sub species of the Indian Mahseer, is probably one of the most powerful of the freshwater fish. Although not as big as its Indian cousin, it nevertheless provides excellent sport. Arovana or “Kelisa” as known locally is a totally protected species. Now only caught in the more remote areas, this fish is a superb fighter, but must be released if caught. Freshwater fishing can be relatively easy with may pay ponds in close proximity to all west coast Peninsula Malaysia towns. Also there are few resort fisheries which offer a wide range of accommodation, a variety of activities and well-shocked fishing ponds. For the more hardy angler, jungle excursions which may involve trekking and camping can be arranged. A few excellent fishing centres are also be found on the fringes of Malaysia’s massive man made lakes.

SEA FISHING
The seas of Malaysia offer a wide diversity of depth, terrain and fish species. The west coast of Peninsula Malaysia is primarily a bottom fishing are. Depths rarely exceed 100 metres and quality table such as grouper, snapper and threadfin are the main quarry. Sailfish and Narrowbarred Mackerel are found seasonally while Giant Trevally and Barracuda are quite common catches. In contrast, the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, off the distant Island of Aur, Pemanggil and Tioman is home to big game fish, the Black Marlin being the most famous. Other game fish include Sailfish, Giant Trevally, Dolphinfish (Mahi-Mahi), Cobia, Mackerel and Barracuda. The Marlin of Malaysia’s east coast average between 50kg to 150kg. The Borneo coast of the South China Sea also offer also offer excellent big game fishing with the island of Labuan being centrally located to these prime fishing areas. The east coast of Sabah bordering the Sulu and Sulawesi seas, with water over 2000 metres in depth, boast both excellent bottom fishing around reef areas and top class game fishing with Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin,Bigeye and Dogtooth Tuna.

The picture on the right is the Ocean Reel luxury boat for deep and leisure fishing and day and short cruises in Langkawi.

Very few fishing organizers, however, provide a full service including tackle, fishing masters and customized itineraries. Should you wish to fish in Malaysia, it is advisable to arrange your trip through the experts. With angling in Malaysia still in its infancy, opportunities to land that “big one” are real. Fishing can be a one day affair or a 2 week affair. It all depends on one’s quarry and destinations. Whether you are a serious angler or a fun fisherman, Malaysia offers the best for both.

Prime Freshwater Fishing Destinations
• Tasik Kenyir
• Tasik Temenggor
• Tasik Chenderoh

The above are made make lakes built for hydro electric power. The fishing areas are the flooded rivers that feed the lakes in the more remote higher reaches. Accommodation is fairly basic, but clean, while the fishing can be excellent
• Tasik Chini
• Tasik Bera

These are both natural lakes set in peat swap areas. Fairly shallow, they offer a wide variety of species with reasonable accommodation

• Upper Endau River
• Kuala Koh
• Kuala Tahan

The Endau river is primarily situated is the Endau- Rombin National Park bordering the states of Pahang and Johore while Kuala Koh and Kuala Tahan are situated in Taman Negara. They al boast beautiful waters, rapids, waterfalls, jungle clad river banks and a wide diversity of flora and fauna. Accommodation of various levels is available in each area. These pristine rivers provide excellent fishing.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

The "Great Lakes" of Malaysia's Pahang State

All About "Great lakes" In Pahang

The State of Pahang n Malaysia can truly be dubbed as the "State of Great Lakes" as it is home to Tasik Bera (Bera Lake) and Tasik Cini (Cini Lake) which are consecutively the country's largest and second largest natural lakes. Taking a trip to these havens of biodiversity promises adventure galore for anglers and naturalists.

Sprawling over 6,150 hectares, Tasik Bera measures approximately 35km long and 20km wide. Its water landscape consists of interlocking lakes, fresh water swamps, pandanus (screwpine) swamps and peat swamps, which drain into the Pahang River, the longest river in the country.

From Kuala Lumpur, the easiest route to the lake is to travel to Temerloh, then southward towards Triang. Before reaching Triang, a signboard at Kerayong leads you to the northside Sudin and Dara Jetties. The Tasik Bera Museum at Kg Kuin has brochures and maps, and Tasik Bera Resort offers chalets and dormitories. For most visitors, a must-do is to cruise the myriad of river channels and bays on flat-bottom boats to explore the flora and search for wildlife. As the boat navigates through the narrow waterways, overhanging pandanus leaves brush against the faces of its passengers, while epiphytes, ferns, orchids and pitchers plants add color to the swamp landscape.

More than 200 species of birds have recorded at Tasik Bera. The White-Throated Kingfisher can often be seen diving into the water for fish. Feared raptors such as the Grey-Head Fish Eagle and Brahminy Kite help maintain the ecological balance of the lake. More beautiful avian creatures include the Malayan Peacock Pheasant and Uncommon Wrinkled Hornbill but sightings are rare. Commonly seen frolicking among the pandanus are Bulbuls, Spiderhunters and Pacific Swallows.

To spot wildlife, ask the boatman to anchor at a secluded bay or shallow channel and switch off the engine. There is the possibility of seeing the Malayan False Gharial, a fish-eating crocodile and the Striped Giant Soft-Shelled Turtle. Across the water's surface, water snakes and vipers can occasionally seen swimming from one reed bed to another. A feared resident of the lake is the reticulated python, which grows to a length of five meters. Its favorite food is monitor lizards and the Malayan Giant Frog - the latter tips the scale at one kilogram.

The lowland dipterocarps around Tasik Bera support medium-sized game such as tapirs, clouded leopards, wild boars, monkeys, mousedeer, flying lemurs and flying squirrels. Along nature trails, there are sights of their existence such as paw prints on mud flats, fresh dung, and claw marks on tree trunks. Angling is allowed at the lake, and more than 100 species of fish are found here. The adventurous angler will try to reel in the ferocious Toman (or Giant Snakehead) and Haruan (or Common Snakehead).

A visit to a Semelai village should also be part of one's itinerary. For more than 600 years, they have lived in Tasik Bera by fishing and hunting. Today, they rely on revenue from farming. They also collect sandalwood, resin from the Keruing tree and trap reticulated pythons for their skin.

Tasik Cini is located 100 km south-west of Kuantan, and consists of 12 interlocking lakes. Romanticized as the "Loch Ness of Malaysia", Tasik Cini's fame is attributed to a Jakun legend that a naga laut (water serpent) lurks in its underwater caves. The lake is also believed to be the site of an ancient Khmer city as artifacts have been discovered in the area though scientific expeditions to discover it have been unsuccessful. According to one story, when the city was threatened by attack, the populace submerged it using a system of aqua-ducts, intending to drain it later.

Traveling to Tasik Cini involves driving to the village of Cini from Kuantan. From Cini, the next leg of the journey is through the oil palm plantation of Felda Cini to the shores of the lake, where Lake Cini Resort is located. A more exciting option is to travel from Kuantan to Kampung Belimbing; take a boat ride across the Sungei Pahang, followed by an upriver trip along Sungei Cini -- where a canopy of lianas hangs overhead -- to the lake,

What greets the visitor is indeed a magnificent sight. The surface of the lake is black and spiky pentenas grass protrude from the water in many places. Wreathed in clouds, Gunung Cini rises 825 meters high, forming a beautiful backdrop. Near the edges of lake stand massive trees with their buttress roots half-submerged in water.

A highly recommended boat ride is to Laut Babi, the biggest lake in the system where turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Another must-visit lake is Laut Melai. From June to September, large parts of its water surface are swathed with thousands of pink water lilies and white lotus blooms on velvety carpets of green leaves. Last but not least, one must also venture to Laut Gumum, where most of the purported sightings of the serpent by locals have taken place. During colonial times, British engineers who have glimpsed it have described the elusive monster as moving with forward lunges, while Jakun elders have claimed that it has a head resembling a tiger's.

At Kampung Gumun, which has a Jakun settlement, visitors can hire a guide to escort them along the nature trails. A popular trek is from Lake Cini Resort to Kampong Gumum, two kilometers away. Another longer trek leads from the resort to a campsite at Lake Terembau. The trail weaves through swamps, oil palm plantations and lowland forests. Along the way, there are frequent encounters with the Grey-Breasted Babbler, Crimson-Winged Woodpecker, Orange-Bellied Flowerpeckers and Lesser-Tailed Drongo. Traditional Jakun villages can also be visited, and one can try to use a blowpipe.

Tasik Cini is a sanctuary for more than 150 species of fish. The best fishing months are from November to January, with Gouramy, Giant Freshwater Puffer, Carp and various species of Catfish being the popular catches. From October to March, migratory birds make a stopover at the lake, enhancing one's birding experiences. Tasik Cini, an undisturbed paradise for centuries is truly spectacular.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Rules for Ethical Fishing

Rules for Ethical Fishing


A Proud CPR Angler With His Bujuk

Thank you for spending time to read this! Fishing has become a fast-developing recreational activity in Malaysia, in recent years. However, with this has arised certain issues to challenge us. Issues like reduced fish stocks due to habitat destruction, the threat from alien fishes, the spoiled environment, and poor etiquette and behaviour among certain fishermen. We anglers thus need to show the way and do it right. We need to be good examples for others to follow.

If we approach our fishing in the right way, the results will be there for us to enjoy. There will still be fish in our rivers, lakes and seas; we will not see rubbish strewn all over the banks or floating in the water; and we will not be irritated or frustrated by other fishermen’s conduct. Won’t that be a good future?

But the change must start with ourselves. Let’s be the role models, and practice Ethical Fishing!

Please read through these suggested Rules for Ethical Fishing. Discuss them with your fishing buddies. Make copies of this handout and pass them to others. Better still, leave a few copies in your regular fishing shops, or any place where fishermen hang out. The more we spread the message, the better for us!

Let’s Do It Right!

Sincerely yours,

Aznir Malek
www.fishing.net.my - click for details
Website Ranking

Note: Some of these rules were adapted from the fishing rules set by the International Game Fish Association (IGFA), a body representing anglers worldwide. The general objective is to promote ethical and sporting angling practices and to establish uniform regulations for competitions and the compilation of fishing records

A. FISHING EQUIPMENT

a. LINES

- Mainlines: Monofilament (nylon), multifilament (braided) may be used. Wire lines are prohibited

- Line backing : Backing not attached to the mainline may be used, with no restriction as to size or material. If the backing is attached to the mainline, then the backing should not exceed 130 lb. (60 kg.). The catch shall be classed under the heavier line.

- Double line : The use of a double line is not rquired. If one is used, then it must consist of the actual mainline. Maximum lengths for double lines are as follows

- Saltwater, up to 20 lb. (10 kg) line: 15 feet (4.57 m.)

- Saltwater, over 20 lb up to 130 lb.: 30 feet (9.14 m.)

- Freshwater, all sizes of line: 6 feet (1.82 m.)

- Leader: The use of a leader is not required. If one is used, then it must meet the following specifications:

- The leader must be connected to the line with a snap, knot, splice or other device. There are no regulations regarding the material or strength of the leader.

- The maximum lengths for leaders are as follows:

- Saltwater, up to 20 lb (10 kg) line: 15 feet (4.57 m.). The combined length of double and leader should not exceed 20 feet (6.1 m.)

- Saltwater, over 20 lb and up to 130 lb (60 kg) line: 30 feet (9.14 m.). Thecombined length of leader and double should not exceed 40 feet (12.19 m)

- Freshwater, all line sizes: 6 feet (1.82 m.). The combined length of leader and double should not exceed 10 feet (3.04 m.)

b. HOOKS

- For live or dead bait fishing: No more than two single hooks may be used. Both must be firmly embedded or attached to the bait. The use of a dangling or swinging hook is prohibited. Double or trebel hooks are prohibited.

- A two hook rig for bottom fishing is only acceptable if it consists of single hooks on separate leaders or droppers. Both hooks must be embedded in the respective baits, and separated sufficiently so that a fish caught on one hook cannot be foul-hooked by the other.

- Hooks for lures: When using an artificial lure with a skirt or trailing material, no more than two single hooks may be attached to the line, leader or trace. The trailing hook should not extend more than a hook’s length beyond the skirt of the lure.

- Treble or double hooks are permissible on lures

- Use barbless hooks whenever possible. They are just as effective as barbed ones, and sometimes better. And they are much more humane to both fish and angler (YOU!)

c. REELS

- Reels must comply with sporting ethics and customs

- Power-driven reels of any kind are discouraged, and prohibited in all competitions or record applications. These include motor, hydraulic or electrically driven reels, and any other device that gives unfair advantage to the angler.

- Ratchet handle reels are also discouraged, prohibited from competitions or record applications.

d. RODS

- Rods must comply with sporting ethics and customs.

- The rod tip (from the centre of the reel to the tip) must be a minimum of 40 inches (101.6 cm). The rod butt (from centre of reel to end of butt) cannot exceed 27 in. (68.58 cm).

- The above measurements do not apply to surfcasting, coarse fishing and pole fishing rods.

B. FISHING ETIQUETTE

a. THE ANGLER’S FISHING ZONE

- Respect other fishermen. They need their own space to fish. Do not encroach into their "fishing zone". Now this zone will vary according to the fishing situation, but the rule is to use common sense and a healthy amount of mutual respect.

b. COURTESY

- Be courteous to other fishermen. Get some agreement if you intend to fish near them.

- Do not make unnecessary noise

- Do not disturb the water unnecessarily, by wading, washing etc.

- If you are boating near other fishermen, slow down your boat, so as to minimise the disturbance.

c. SAFETY

- Always think Safety, for yourself and others

- Do not leave sharp objects lying around unattended

- Wear a personal floatation device (PFD) like lifejacket at all times when you are on the water

- Check for safety first, when you want to wade or use a boat. Seek advice regarding safety for the specific river, lake or sea, before you set out on your own. Remember; only cats have nine lives!

C. FISH CONSERVATION

Our fish stocks are now under pressure, from pollution, habitat degradation and over-fishing. We anglers need to reduce this pressure. Every good deed you do will help the cause.

a. ENDANGERED FISHES

Some of our fish species are now endangered or even close to extinction. Whenever you happen to catch one, please release it back with care. Some of these endangered species are listed below:

- Freshwater: Kelesa, temoleh, toman bunga (jaloi, jalai, kerandang), jengkua, kelah (except National Park rivers), wild jelawat, wild patin like patin muncung, kenderap, gerahak, sikang.

- Saltwater: All billfishes like ikan layar (sailfish) and mersuji (marlin), big sharks, kerapu bara (coral trout)

b. CATCH LIMITS

There are many of our species that, though they are not endangered, still need our help to sustain their stocks. You need to follow certain catch limits, to ensure this. These catch limits may vary from one water to another, but I suggest that, as a general guide, you follow the catch limits given below. You need to release the small fish, to give them a chance to grow, and also the big ones to give them a chance to propagate.



Fish Species (Freshwater)


Size Limits (kg.)


Bag Limits


Minimum


Maximum


1


Haruan


0.7


1.5


2 per day

2


Bujuk


0.7


1.2


2 per day

3


Toman bunga


Release


Release


Release

4


Wild jelawat


Release


Release


Release

5


Wild patin


Release


Release


Release

6


Kalui


1.5


2.5


1 per day

7


Temoleh


Release


Release


Release

8


Kelah (for managed river only, eg. National Parks.

For other rivers, it is best to release)


1.5


2.0


1 per group per trip

9


Kelesa


Release


Release


Release

10


Tapah


10.0


15.0


1 per group per trip

11


Toman


1.5


3.0


1 per day

12


Belida


2.0


3.0


1 per day

13


Lampam sungai


-


-


5 per day

14


Kerai


1.0


2.0


1 per day

15


Baung


0.6


1.5


2 per day

16


Kelulang


0.6


1.5


1 per trip

17


Gerahak


Release


Release


Release

18


Jengkua


Release


Release


Release

19


Tengas (kejor)


1.0


2.0


1 per day

20


Sikang


Release


Release


Release

21


Sebarau


1.0


2.0


1 per day

22


Tengalan


1.0


1.5


1 per day

Note: If you happen to catch a fish you cannot identify, and are certain that it is not an alien fish, please release it. Better still, take a photo of it.

c. CATCH AND RELEASE

- Try to land the fish as fast as you can

- Use a landing net, not a gaff. The net mesh should be of material that causes minimal damage to the fish (eg. knotless mesh).

- Wet your hands before handling the fish. This prevents the fish from losing too much of its protective slime covering.

- If possible, keep the fish in the water while you unhook it

- After unhooking, revive the fish: hold it by the tail in the water, move it forwards and backwards until its tail starts to kick, then let it go.

- If you wish to take photos, do it as quickly as possible. Do not hold the fish vertically (this may damage its organs and tissues). Support it with both hands, in a horizontal position.

- Unless you are fishing in a commercial pond, you should NOT release an alien fish.

d. FISH TAGGING PROGRAMS

Efforts have now been made to tag certain species, with the objectives of conservation and monitoring of the their growth rates and behaviour patterns. Tagging of sailfish in both the South China Sea and Straits of Melaka has been initiated by Persatuan Memancing Malaysia (PeMM) . The kelah of Sungai Tahan are also being tagged by the Kelah Sanctuary organisation. I am sure that more tagging programs will commence in the future.

The tag is usually a plastic dart that is attached to the dorsal area of the fish. If you happen to catch a tagged fish, please follow the procedure below:

- Do not pull out the tag, unless the fish has died.

- Note down the code number, and any other particulars printed on the tag.

- Record the following: weight of the fish, its standard length (from nose to base of tail), its total length (from nose to end of tail), the girth (the biggest circumference around the belly, exact location of the catch, water conditions, date, time, weather conditions, bait/lure used.

- Release the fish if possible

- Contact the relevant organisation and feedback the above information.

e. THE THREAT FROM ALIEN FISHES

The last few years has seen more and more alien species appearing in our natural waters, mainly via the aquarium and aquaculture industries. There is insufficient research done on the negative effects of these species on our local fishes, but observations by many fishermen show that the threat is real. Some alien fishes breed very fast, forage on the eggs and fry of local fish, or even destroy the habitat.

The end result will be stunted fishes, or reduced fish stocks.

We can’t afford to wait for scientific research on this issue. We need to take action now. If you catch any of these alien species in a natural water (river, lake, naturalised lombong etc), DO NOT RELEASE them back into the water. Cull them and donate them to a good cause.

Some of these aliens include:

- The Cichlids: Flower horns, peacock bass, jaguar cichlids, ‘kerapu lombong’, Tilapia (all types)

- The Carps: Grass carp, leekoh, bighead carp, silver carp, rohu

- The Catfishes: African keli and Russian catfish

- Other alien species: Pacu, lampam jawa, sucker mouth (‘bandaraya’ fish)

Note: even a local species may be considered an ‘alien’ for a particular water, when its introduction creates harm. An example is toman when introduced into a new water (eg. Klang Gates Dam, Batu Dam), may propagate so fast as to dominate the whole water. Selective culling may be needed here

D. PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT

a. CLEANLINESS

- Take back everything that you brought for your fishing. Leave nothing behind. After all, the stuff you bring back is usually lighter than what you brought!

- Bring large dustbin bags: you can also collect other people’s rubbish. Be a role model, and others will follow.

- Be extra careful with discarded fishing lines, plastic bags and small leads. These things kill birds, fish and other animals. Cut your discarded fishing lines into short lengths, then dispose into the rubbish bags.

- Tin cans and plastic bags make perfect homes for mosquitoes. Bring them home!

b. MAINTAINING WATER QUALITY

- Do not dirty the water

- If there are no toilets in the vicinity, do not urinate or defecate in or near the water. Do your toilet duties away from the water. Make a hole in the ground, and cover it back when you are finished.

- In stillwaters, do not excessively groundbait (berley) your swim. Too much groundbaiting deteriorates the water quality.

- Do not release chemical liquids (eg. detergents, oils, even carbonated drinks) into the water or by the banks where they can leach back into the water.

- Do not use insecticides (eg insect sprays) and animal deterrents (eg. sulphur powder) excessively. Some of these harmful chemicals may end up in the water.

c. CARE FOR THE SURROUNDINGS AND VEGETATION

- Try not to cut down any vegetation on or near the water. This vegetation is home to insects, a major food source for the fish.

- If you intend to camp, use specified or ready-made campsites. Try not to clear new ground. Exposed earth end up as silt in the river after heavy rains, destroying fish habitat and affecting fish breeding.

- Do not make open fires unless it is really necessary. A stove is always more eco-friendly. If you do make an open fire, make sure it will not spread to nearby vegetation. Always douse the firs completely before you leave.

- At campsites or along jungle trails, never leave cut saplings protruding from the ground. They act like spears when you fall on them! Cut them at the base, if you have to, leaving no sharp points.

- Leave nothing but footprints, and shoot only with cameras!

TO ENSURE YOUR OWN FISHING FUTURE …

PRACTICE ETHICAL FISHING!