95-Year-Old Wu Tiannan Named Oldest Model Fisherman in Taiwan’s History

At 95, Wu Tiannan has become the oldest person ever selected as a model fisherman in Taiwan.

The Fisheries Agency honored 12 fishermen this year. Wu began fishing off Tainan at the age of 13 and has spent more than 80 years in the industry. After turning 70, he moved into aquaculture in the Sicao area, raising grass shrimp, sea bass, milkfish and tiger grouper.

Wu still inspects his fish ponds every day. His own aquaculture products have also received traceability certification. Alongside his work, he has taught younger fishermen how to build traditional bamboo and rubber rafts and repair fishing nets.

He is also one of the few practitioners who can still perform “suan yu-tsai,” a chant once used to count fish fry during trading. Wu said passing on Taiwan’s fishing history and collective memories brings him the greatest meaning and happiness.

Another honoree, Wu Kuo-chen, raises golden threadfin while restoring coral in a pond beside his fish farm. He has devoted seven years to marine conservation and worked with schools and communities on seafood and coral education programs. The other recognized fishermen included operators involved in tuna longlining, coastal nets, fish farming, oyster cultivation and other fisheries.

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The most meaningful and joyful thing is passing on the historical memories of Taiwan’s fishing industry.