Growing interest in hiring boats for recreational fishing was helping boat operators earn additional income for their families alongside their main fishing occupation.
Kampot fishers had expanded tourist-fishing transport services, earning between KHR100,000 and KHR200,000 per trip depending on distance. On average, each fisher could operate about 20 tourist trips a month. Fishers attributed the growth to cleaner surroundings and development in Kampot that attracted more visitors.
Ban To, a tourist-fishing boat owner in Koh Touch commune, Bokor city, Kampot, said he had fished for many years. Recently, as development brought more visitors, he and other villagers became interested in transporting tourists because it was easier than fishing: operating a trip brought a fee.
Visitors who enjoyed fishing said they were happy whether or not they caught fish, and described a distinctive atmosphere and scenery while fishing from boats at sea or near islands. They said they had not encountered problems on previous outings because they always consulted experienced boat owners about wind and sea safety; owners would not allow departure if conditions posed risks.
Specialist officials said enthusiasts could find fishing locations along waterways, the coast and fishing communities, or hire boats in communities and fishing villages. Officials and local authorities prioritised visitor safety through outreach, education and reminders for fishers to exercise caution and responsibility. By: Pai Sokhim.
