3 M’sian waterside escapes where the catch is only half the fun

Malaysia's coastal regions are becoming popular destinations for visitors seeking a tranquil escape from daily life. In Lumut, Rockbund Fishing Chalet offers a unique experience where guests can fish over open water without leaving the property. Boasting panoramic views of Pangkor Island, the resort's 20 chalets are frequently booked during weekends, with visitors casting their lines amidst serene surroundings.

Manager Ling Jeat emphasizes the exceptional scenery, particularly the stunning sunsets over Pangkor Island that have made the resort a weekend retreat for many. Down south in Johor, Pantai Penyabong attracts avid squid jigging enthusiasts from April to August. This recreational fishing technique involves using colorful artificial lures to attract squid, which then grab the lures with their tentacles.

Regular visitors like Ling Kam Ming and Koick Fatt Soon enjoy the unpredictable nature of the catch, ranging from squid to grouper, stingray, and various other seafood. Farther south in Kota Tinggi, Sungai Sedili Besar has gained a reputation for its prized blue claw prawns, known for their firm texture and sweet flavor. These prawns, a product of the river's unique freshwater and seawater mix, have been a local favorite for decades.

To preserve the species and support local livelihoods, an initiative has been launched to release 200,000 prawn fry into the river.