A fishing competition was held recently at Gaohu reservoir in Yinan county, Linyi, attracting more than 1,000 fishing enthusiasts to this prized spot in Shandong province.
Along the lakeside, anglers waited quietly for their catches, while nearby villages were bustling with farm restaurants, homestays and local specialty sales. Fishing rods combined with the determination to improve living standards have connected the area's natural resources with new opportunities for rural development.
The event attracted visitors from across China with its high-quality fishing environment and improved supporting facilities. Participants from outside Shandong accounted for 60 percent of all the competitors. Unlike short sightseeing trips, fishing tourism offers a slower and more immersive experience, encouraging visitors to stay longer and explore local scenery, food and village life.
The competition has also brought visible changes to local businesses and residents. During the event, farm restaurants welcomed more customers, with local specialties such as Linyi fried chicken and wild vegetables emerging as popular choices. Homestays near the reservoir were often fully booked, while villagers sold fruits, agricultural products and snacks near their homes. Services related to event operations, including security and cleaning, also created more employment opportunities.
Yinan has continued to explore the integration of sports, tourism and leisure by developing various events throughout the year, including fishing, cycling and rural sports competitions. By turning sporting events into platforms for tourism and consumption, the county is extending its rural industry chain and creating more opportunities for local development.
Rows of participants line the pond during the fishing contest. [Photo/Linyi Daily]
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