The fishing season has come once again at Chagan lake, in China's Jilin province. The lake, home to 70 different species of fish, is witness to a unique fishing tradition. Every winter, locals cut holes in the ice and go fishing dressed in fur hats and white sheepskin coats.
Chagan lake is one of the biggest freshwater lakes in China, and the practice of winter fishing here goes back nearly 2,000 years ago. Each winter, these Mongolian fishermen brave -20C to -30C temperatures and use the centuries-old technique to catch fish. The first catch of winter is considered auspicious, usually attracting thousands of visitors.
For the fishermen, the day starts early and ends late here in Chagan, but the catch certainly made the day worthwhile.
In this age of internet and quickly-outdated gadgets the tools, dress and fishing tradition in Chagan have passed the test of time.
"It's been good since the winter fishing started few days ago," said Zhang Wen, head of fishing crew of Chagan lake. "Thanks to preservation efforts, the fish we caught are heavier and bigger compared with the ones from last year."
Until recently, the lake and its winter fishing tradition was unknown to the public. But as its reputation grew, so did the influx of visitors. And with visitors eager for a taste of the famous fish, the farm is adopting some new sale techniques.
But the people of Chagan aren't letting success get to their heads. They know, as they have for centuries, that the fishing season is a reminder of the delicate balance of nature, and that the lake will continue to provide only as long as it is protected.