Melo Villareal
Lake Abashiri Smelt Fishing Experience
It is without a doubt that Japan is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Japan is a country that many people and wanderlust around the world wish to visit at least once in their lifetime. As a travel blogger, I always get asked about my favorite country, and with no hesitations, I’d proudly answered Japan for many reasons.
This country is brimming with hearty dishes, Instagram-worthy tourist spots, and outdoor pursuits. Not to mention, Japan is rich in heritage and tradition, and locals with a longstanding reputation for politeness, making it a dream destination in the world.
Trip to Hokkaido
The beautiful destinations in Japan are countless – FACT. One of them is the island of Hokkaido, which is magical when covered in snow. A few weeks ago, I was invited by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization) in partnership with Japan Airlines to explore some exciting destinations in Hokkaido other than the capital city of Sapporo.
Many things were running through my mind during our travel to Hokkaido, and one of those is planning to soak in outdoor onsens or perhaps unique activities ideal for the winter season!
We took a 5-hour Japan Airlines flight to Haneda Airport in Japan. After a 2-hour layover, we took another flight from Haneda to Memanbetsu Airport in Ozora, Hokkaido, Japan. As we walked to the Jetway upon arriving at Memanbetsu Airport, we immediately felt the freezing temperature even though the passenger tube was fully enclosed, and we thought it was nature’s way of saying, “Welcome to Hokkaido.” We just could not wait for the thrilling adventure to unfold.
From the airport, we walked to the designated parking area where our tour bus was parked. The street is covered by snow, and even though it’s not slippery, we stroll until we get used to it. The parking lot was around 30 meters from the airport gate, but it took us almost 20 minutes to reach the bus because of ‘picture-taking’! Sometimes – especially when the location is picture-perfect – we just have to make time for the ‘gram! Agree?
The Smelt Fishing Experience
After securing our luggage, we hopped onto the bus and started our journey to our first destination — Lake Abashiri.
In Hokkaido, the best place to get a full view and experience how much wonder Mother Nature has through visiting Lake Abashiri.
Lake Abashiri is a large lake found in Abashiri Quasi-National Park. Two rivers flow into the lake, Abashiri and Memanbetsu. Other than enjoying the expansive lake’s view, people who visit the lake also go canoeing and bird watching during summertime. But one of the unique winter activities that can be done here is smelt fishing. Smelt fish, with the scientific name Hypomesus nipponensis (wakasagi) fish – is an important food fish native to the lakes and estuaries of Hokkaido, Japan.
But the difference with this kind of fishing in Lake Abashiri is that this is done during winter. You may be wondering how it’s done, but it is possible! The way to do so is by creating a hole in the ice where you drop your fishing line. This fish may not seem appealing, but this is the pride of Hokkaido, and it tastes pretty amazing.
Upon reaching the lake, everyone was instructed to go to the designated tents, except for me and Ana who stayed a little bit longer to look for Instagrammable spots in the area 🙂 After taking a few shots, we headed to our tent and tried fishing.
Contrary to how complicated fishing is, you only need a bit of patience and a thick jacket ready to keep you warm. The key to catching these fishes is timing. Sometimes, if you get it right, you can hook them up continuously. Fishing rods, bait, and hook rigs are available for tourists who availed of the tour package.
If you think or want to stay long at the lake, you can also rent a tent to have somewhere to stay on the lake that can protect you from the freezing wind. Even chairs are available for rental. So, no need for you to bring your own. But you can if you wish to do so.
And if it is your first time, an instructor is available to guide and teach you the ins and outs of fishing. These guides are very helpful and patient when assisting tourists, which I can attest to. They also ensure you get the best out of this excellent winter activity. If you do get a catch, get excited because this catch will be served as a part of your morning snack. You can opt to have it cooked as tempura or as fried fish.
What To Wear in the Cold Winter
To prepare for the cold winter, you must wear the correct attire. Ensure that your outfit is winter-appropriate, Warm, waterproof outerwear, and Thick or multi-layered socks. It is also best to wear Fleece or down mid-layer underneath the jacket. Wear a bonnet or a hat covering your ears and waterproof gloves to keep your hands warm. Wear warm boots or trekking shoes that cover your ankles. And just in case you get hungry as you fish, bring some snacks and drinks to get you some energy.
Where to Eat After Smelt Fishing
After the smelt fishing experience, we headed to Okhotsk Bazaar for our Hotpot lunch, which was perfectly fitting after the challenging activity in the cold winter.
The restaurant is located on the second floor of a souvenir shop. The hotpot includes a variety of Okhotsk seafood, including Okhotsk Salmon, fresh vegetables, noodles, and boiled in a unique pot right in front of us.
Up Next: Ryuhyo Monogatari Train – Scenic Railway Journey in Hokkaido
Also see:
- Fascinating Kyoto: Top 15 Things to Do in This Traditional Japanese City
- Sapporo Travel Guide: Itinerary, Things to do, How to get there and More
- Best Hotels in Sapporo, Japan
- Sapporo Beer Garden: Having Hot Dinner for a Cold Winter Trip in Hokkaido, Japan
- 10 Sumptuous Foods to Try While in Japan
- How to get a Japan Visa: Requirements and Tips for Philippine Passport Holders
