Terengganu: While Terengganu has long been known for its squid jigging activities, which are among the state's main tourist attractions each year, a new phenomenon, 'candat darat' (land-based squid jigging), has now emerged, offering anglers and the public the opportunity to catch squid right from the shoreline.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, one of the hotspots is a jetty at Pantai Kijal near here, which has been crowded with anglers and visitors every evening until late at night over the past week. Abdullah Hassan, 42, from Paka, Dungun, mentioned that most anglers and locals fish for squid in the area using an artificial lure known as an 'egi', which resembles a shrimp.
Abdullah explained that land-based squid jigging only takes place for about two months, in April and May, compared to offshore jigging, 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. He noted that besides fishing along the shoreline, the jetty is also a suitable location as it allows people to venture slightly further out to sea without having to board a boat.
The activity is usually done between 6 pm and midnight, as squid are more active at night in search of food. Mohd Ghazali Rahman, 51, from Meraga Beris in Kijal, observed that more than 100 anglers flock daily to the approximately 300-metre jetty for this activity. He shared that he has visited three times since last week, managing to catch more than 10 needle squid during each three-hour session.
Mohd Ghazali highlighted that land-based squid jigging is gaining popularity among anglers because the cost is lower compared to renting a boat to fish offshore. He added that the jetty is among his preferred spots due to its lively atmosphere, as well as several beaches in Kemaman, such as Pantai Kerteh, Pantai Penunjuk, and Pantai Kuala Kemaman, which have also become popular locations.
Meanwhile, a retired soldier, Said Nan, 66, said he and his wife, Mek Kemas Mohamad, 58, often spend 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. Said noted that catch yields can sometimes be unpredictable, with some days yielding plenty and others minimal.