TERENGGANU has long been known for its squid jigging activities that are among the state’s main tourist attractions every year.
A new phenomenon called 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 Chukai, which has been crowded with anglers and visitors every evening until late at night.
An angler, Abdullah Hassan said most fishermen and locals fished 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 season, 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,” said Abdullah 42, from Paka, Dungun.
“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.
Land-based jigging, he said, was usually done between 6pm and midnight, as squid are more active at night in search of food.
Mohd Ghazali Rahman, 51, from Meraga Beris in Kijal, said more than 100 anglers flock daily to the approximately 300m-long jetty for land-based squid jigging.
He has been there three times recently, 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.
Mohd Ghazali said the jetty was among his preferred spots due to its lively atmosphere, besides several beaches in Kemaman such as Pantai Kerteh, Pantai Penunjuk and Pantai Kuala Kemaman that have also become popular locations.
Sixty-six-year-old retired soldier Said Nan said he and his wife Mek Kemas Mohamad, 58, often spent their free time fishing for fish and crabs at Pantai Kijal while enjoying the tranquility of the beach.
However, they are currently focusing on squid jigging as it is now in season.
“Catch yields can sometimes be unpredictable,” said Mohd Ghazali.
“There are days when we get plenty, and other days when the catch is minimal,” he added.
Mohd Norham Yahaya, 41, (right) and Ahmad Syawal Kamarudin, 30, showing the needle squid they caught from the Pantai Awana jetty.
Said spends his free time fishing at Pantai Kijal while enjoying the tranquility of the beach.
Anglers gathering at Pantai Awana jetty in the evening to catch squid.
