Fishermen head out as 'blue crab fishing ban lifted' in waters off Chungnam, expecting full hauls early next week

The waters off the coast of Chungnam, South Korea, are buzzing with activity as the ban on blue crab fishing has been lifted. This marks the start of the autumn season, with numerous fishing vessels, including leisure boats, flocking to the region for the first weekend of operation.

According to the Boryeong and Taean Coast Guard, the crab fishing moratorium was lifted across the Chungnam western coast. The National Fisheries Research and Development Institute forecasts an estimated catch of 12,000 to 16,000 tons of blue crabs for the autumn season. This projection represents a decrease from last year's catch of 17,423 tons, falling between 69% and 92% of last year's total, but is expected to be 92% to 123% of the five-year average.

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The catch rate was about half of what we caught during the same period last year.

On the first day, the Boryeong Coast Guard reported 298 fishing boats, 188 fishing charter boats, and 8 leisure craft setting sail. In the Taean Coast Guard's jurisdiction, 105 fishing boats, 94 fishing charter boats, and 10 leisure craft were deployed. Despite the high number of vessels, some fishermen reported lower-than-expected catches on the initial day.

One captain fishing in the Boryeong waters noted that warm water temperatures and unfavorable currents kept the crabs near the seabed, making them difficult to catch. He estimated their catch to be about half of what they caught during the same period last year. However, fishermen remain hopeful for improved yields, anticipating better conditions and increased catches around Monday or Tuesday when the water currents are expected to change.

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We expect to catch a full boatload early next week.