ANN/THE STAR – Nestled along Malaysia’s coastal waters, the kelong – a traditional wooden platform built on stilts – offers anglers a truly unique fishing experience.
Originally designed to trap fish, these man-made structures suspended above the water have evolved into favoured fishing spots for modern enthusiasts.
Positioned in key locations where currents naturally attract marine life, kelongs provide an accessible and tranquil setting for fishing enthusiasts to enjoy the excitement of the catch.
For centuries, the kelong has been an integral part of the region’s fishing heritage. Today, many of these traditional platforms have been converted into fishing resorts, allowing anglers to fish directly from the structure without the need to venture offshore. At first glance, a kelong may appear simplistic – a wooden platform standing in open waters – yet it serves as a haven for fish.
Strategically located at the meeting point of strong tidal currents, kelongs benefit from nutrient-rich waters that sustain a thriving marine ecosystem.
The underwater structures accumulate algae and small organisms, drawing various fish species and making them ideal fishing spots.
Fishing at a kelong is both straightforward and rewarding.
Even beginners can achieve impressive results with the right techniques. Common methods include bottom fishing, float fishing, multi-hook rigs such as Apollo rigs, casting, and light jigging.
Bottom fishing is highly effective for catching bottom-dwelling species such as groupers (kerapu) and snappers (jenahak).
This technique requires a sinker to ensure the bait reaches the seabed quickly, even in strong currents. Live prawns, squid, and cut fish are commonly used as bait. Float fishing is best suited for targeting surface species such as barracuda, queenfish, or Spanish mackerel.
This method involves suspending bait just below the surface with a float, mimicking the movement of prey to lure larger predatory fish.
Float fishing is valued for its adaptability and effectiveness in catching surface-dwelling species.
Anglers can also utilise multi-hook rigs (such as multiple jig rigs) to catch smaller baitfish like sardines, Indian mackerel (kembong), and yellowtail scad (selar).
These rigs, featuring multiple small hooks, are jigged up and down to entice baitfish. While these smaller fish can be kept as catches, they also serve as excellent live bait for larger predators.
Light jigging or casting is an effective technique for fast-swimming species such as trevally and cobia.
This method imitates the erratic movement of an injured fish, making it highly attractive to predatory species. Light jigging and casting are versatile approaches that can target both pelagic (surface-dwelling) and demersal (bottom-dwelling) fish.
The variety of fish surrounding kelongs makes them a haven for anglers. Fish are most active during tidal shifts when moving waters bring in nutrients and smaller prey, which in turn attract larger predators. The hours surrounding high and low tide are considered peak fishing times, making it essential to plan fishing sessions accordingly.
The ideal time for kelong fishing falls within the inter-monsoon periods (April-May and October-November) when the seas are calmer. – Eddie Chua
