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Pham Phung
Lying beside Hoang Sa Street in Danang’s Son Tra District, Man Thai Beach is nestled between the Son Tra Mountains. This sheltered beach plays a pivotal role in the flourishing local tourism and fishery industries.
Setting the nets
Seine fishing is a method of near-shore fishing that uses a surrounding net, called a seine, which hangs vertically in the water. The fishermen of Man Thai use this type of net year-round, with early morning and dusk being the best time to catch fish. The seines are wall-shaped nets that stretch from 500 to 1,000 meters in length, with the weighted bottom edge trailing down to the seafloor. The net floats thanks to buoyant tubes on the top side.
As the first light of dawn breaks, a group of approximately 15 fishermen sets out to sea, deploying an arc-shaped net over a kilometer away from the shore. Back on the beach, the fishermen divide into two groups positioned on either side of the net. With nimble hands and firm steps, they start to pull in the net, gradually bringing it closer to the shore. During this process, they grasp the net with both hands, facing the sea, leaning back and forth in a rhythmic motion as they pull the heavy net toward shore. Meanwhile, the womenfolk prepare baskets to hold the freshly harvested fish.
Preserving traditions
Each haul yields a variety of fish, including herrings, pompano, scads, beltfishes, and fresh ruoc (small shrimp). These shrimps typically measure between one and four centimeters in length and display a brownish-reddish hue. They are commonly boiled or cooked with vegetables. On days with modest catches, the fishermen share among themselves or sell their catches to tourists or locals on the beach. In the event of a significant haul, they classify and sell the fish to traders at prices ranging from VND 30,000 to 50,000 per kilogram, depending on the type of fish. An average work day brings in around VND 500,000 in income, depending on the quantity of fish that’s caught.
Fishermen in Man Thai have fished this way for generations. Fishing not only sustains their livelihood but serves as a symbol of solidarity and friendship. However, in recent times, the number of fishermen has dwindled due to the allure of a more modern lifestyle and rapid urbanization. At present, Man Thai District is home to only two fishing groups, comprising 30 active fishermen. A decline in fish stocks has prompted local residents to seek alternative employment options to make a living.
Nonetheless, the fishermen remain optimistic, their exuberant cheers and swift movements harmonizing with the tranquil sound of the waves on calm days. When visiting Son Tra, tourists can learn about the area’s traditional fishing practices and even experience seine fishing firsthand. We sincerely hope that the local government will implement appropriate policies to preserve and perpetuate the fishing traditions of Man Thai Beach.
