Discover the tranquillity in fishing with local YouTuber Alwie Salleh.
Finding solace in nature can be a rare luxury, especially in the new era of digitalisation. But for Alwie Salleh, a 41-year-old YouTuber known as “Wee Fishing”, the tranquil art of fishing is not just a hobby; it’s a passion that has taken him to the shores of distant lands, forging connections with fellow anglers and fostering a deep appreciation for nature.
Sitting by the serene waters, Alwie reflected on the essence of fishing, “I love fishing because it brings me closer to nature, and it relaxes me, especially when I’m with other fellow anglers out in the waters carrying out conversations on just about anything without any interruptions”.
For the experienced angler, what truly ignites his enthusiasm for fishing is the thrill of the chase, that moment when angler and prey connect in a dance of skill and strategy.
“What’s most interesting to me is when we strike the fish that we actually targeted.
“If one successfully catches the targeted fish, the satisfaction it carries can certainly be felt, and it’s a feeling that is indescribable,” said Alwie.
Fishing, however, is not for the faint-hearted. It comes with its own set of challenges, from battling unpredictable weather conditions to understanding the subtle nuances of aquatic ecosystems. Alwie, however, believes these challenges are what make fishing all the more exciting.
“I first learned how to fish from friends around me, but in-depth learning came from YouTube and also fishing articles found on websites on the Internet,” Alwie revealed, highlighting the power of digital platforms in disseminating knowledge and fostering a global community of anglers.
The local YouTuber’s fishing journey has definitely taken him to exotic locales, and his most recent destination was in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
“I have gone far with other angler friends to go out of the island of Borneo to fish.
“We went to Singapore, and even Chengdu, China to participate in the ‘International Kayak Fishing’ competition, where the competition offered quite attractive prizes, but the challenge from the participants there was very strong – including participants from America and Australia,” he said.
His recent fishing trip to Sabah was not without aim as he and his angler friends went off to experience fishing for the elusive “kanai” or black bass.
Alwie elaborated on the allure of this particular species: “Anglers are drawn to the fish not for its appearance, such as its colour or shape, but for the sheer strength it possesses.”
He added that this provides a further challenging experience in reeling it in.
“In Papua New Guinea, pursuing this particular fish can cost up to USD5,000 for a five-day fishing trip. However, in Sabah, it offers a more cost-effective alternative to accomplishing the mission.”
But Alwie’s commitment to conservation is as unwavering as his love for fishing.
He said, “It’s crucial to emphasise the importance of releasing kanai back into the river after capturing photos, as this is essential for the purpose of sustainability.”
Comparing fishing in the Sultanate to international waters, Alwie pointed out the pivotal difference – atmosphere.
“Beyond the fish species, what truly makes a location distinguished is the ambiance of the fishing experience. Every location has its own unique atmosphere,” he said.
When asked about the benefits of fishing, Alwie’s answer was both simple and profound.
“You can bring the fish back for consumption, donate them to charity, or even sell them. However, when harvesting fish that have been successfully caught, it’s important to consider not taking all of them and strive for a balanced approach.”
As for those who have yet to try their hand at fishing, Alwie offered a compelling reason to dip one’s toes in the water: you won’t love something until you try it.
For Alwie, engaging in fishing activities offers a wonderful opportunity for family leisure, providing a means to unwind and bond.
Moreover, for those with a pre-existing passion for fishing, it can transcend mere leisure and evolve into a potential source of additional income, especially in the context of today’s social media-driven era.
Certainly, fishing extends beyond the act of catching fish; it encompasses an appreciation for the outdoors, the cultivation of connections, and a commitment to the betterment of our planet.
Alwie Salleh serves as a reminder that this timeless pursuit provides not just relaxation and excitement, but also a chance to play guardian to our environment, casting a positive impact with each fishing excursion. – Izah Azahari
