For Fauzan, fishing wasn’t a childhood pastime, but rather a hobby introduced by friends during his college days. His first fishing outing near an old sunken building, where fish gathered in abundance, ignited a lifelong passion.
“I wasn’t sure about it at first, but when my friends convinced me to give it a try, I couldn’t have imagined I’d enjoy it this much,” Fauzan shared. “Standing there with my friends, surrounded by the calm water, I found peace.”
Now, as a working adult, Fauzan and his friends – Aimin, Sarol, Firdaus and Muin – have explored various fishing spots across Brunei, catching a variety of fish, including red snapper, leopard coral grouper, bludger or giant trevally, emperor snapper and yellowtail.
From the tranquil shores of Muara Beach and Tungku Beach to the more rugged Danau Tutong area and Jerudong fish market, the group has mastered the nuances of each location.
“I’ve fished at so many places,” Fauzan said, recounting their adventures.
“Muara Beach, Serasa, even near rivers and lakes where the water is calm. Each spot offers something different.”
Among their countless trips, one memorable outing took them to an area near Pelumpong Island in 2017. The group reeled in their largest catch to date, snagging barramundi, groupers and mackerels. “That trip to Pelumpong Island was something else,” Fauzan reminisced. “We caught so many big fish – it was easily the best day we’ve had.”
For Fauzan, fishing has also served as a personal challenge to overcome his thalassophobia, a fear of deep, dark waters. The calm and peaceful nature of fishing has gradually helped him confront and conquer his fear.
“It’s strange how fishing has helped me manage my fear of the deep ocean,” Fauzan confessed. “When I’m out there, it feels like I’m pushing past those fears bit by bit. The more I fish, the less daunting it becomes.”
Beyond the thrill of catching fish, the group is mindful of their impact on the environment.
They adhere to the principle of keeping the ocean and rivers clean, ensuring their fishing trips contribute to preserving the beauty and cleanliness of the waters.
“One of my friends always says, ‘Don’t pollute the ocean or rivers. Keep them clean,’” Fauzan explained. “Fishing isn’t just about what we take; it’s also about what we leave behind.” As Fauzan and his friends embark on their latest fishing adventure from Seri Kenangan Beach in Tutong District, fishing has become more than a hobby – it’s a way of life.
The time spent together on the water has deepened their friendship and provided them with countless cherished memories. As they continue their fishing adventures, Fauzan and his friends look forward to more moments of reflection, challenge and shared triumph. Each outing is a reminder of the simple pleasures of nature, the strength of friendship, and the thrill of the next big catch waiting just beneath the surface. – Fadley Faisal
