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New species of fish discovered in ocean trench near NZ

By James Ihaka Email James

 

Researchers (from left) Steve Bailey, Alan Jamieson and Andrew Stewart with deep-sea specimens. Photo / Malcolm Clark

 

 

An expedition to one of the deepest ocean trenches has discovered a new species of fish and another not previously caught in the southwest Pacific, giving scientists a better understanding of biodiversity in the deep seas around New Zealand.

Niwa scientists working with colleagues from the University of Aberdeen and Te Papa Museum discovered a new species of eelpout and new records of a rattail fish that has not previously been caught in the southwest Pacific on a recent voyage to the Kermadec Trench.

They also found a rattail that has not been caught in New Zealand waters for more than 100 years, a large deep-sea cusk eel and large numbers of amphipods, such as marine sand-hoppers.

Niwa principal scientist Dr Malcolm Clark said the voyage was part of a continuing series to investigate how the biodiversity in the trench differed from that at shallower depths and in other trench systems.

He said the international collaboration allowed local researchers to use scientific equipment they do not have and to sample places that would otherwise be inaccessible.

"The results from this deep exploration are giving us a much better understanding of biodiversity in the deep sea around New Zealand, and enable us to better assess potential risks to the ecosystem from future climate change and even human activities, which may include seabed mining," he said.

Voyage leader Dr Alan Jamieson, from the University of Aberdeen, said they had recovered a considerable amount of data, which would be added to information collected from the Kermadec Trench over three previous voyages on RV Kaharoa by the Aberdeen-Niwa team.

"A voyage such as this is testament to how feasible scientific research in the deep sea has become," he said.

"The technological challenges of the past no longer exist, and shouldn't limit our responsibility to learn about and understand the deep sea to help ensure the long-term health of the deep oceans, one of the largest environments on earth."

In seven days of sampling, the scientists - who used landers with cameras attached that free-fall to the seafloor, as well as baited fish traps - caught more than 100 fish and took more than 6500 photographs.

They covered waters well below the depth that light penetrates, sampling depths between one and six kilometres on the edge of the Kermadec Trench - one of the deepest places on Earth, with depths exceeding 10km.

The new specimens will be held at the National Fish Collection at Te Papa while the amphipod samples will be registered in Niwa's invertebrate collection.

Dr Clark said a further expedition to the New Hebrides Trench was planned for October.

By James Ihaka Email

 

 

 

Full Article:  nzherald

More News:  GoFishTalk

Hobie Kayak Owners Manual, part 2 of 2

Hobie Kayak Owners Manual, part 1 of 2

Riviera 41

RIVIERA REFINED

The Riviera 40 was the boatbuilder’s former top seller, but the new 41 is one of the most sophisticated of its type and looks set to reclaim top billing, writes David Lockwood

Everyone liked the Riviera 40 – a flybridge cruiser that had enough waterline length to be comfortable at sea, ample accommodation and amenities to disappear for a week, and a user-friendly size to drive and maintain. Nearly 300 were sold over six years.

The new 41 has big shoes to fill and, as to be expected, it is more contemporary than the 40. The new model has a naval architect-designed hull courtesy of Frank Mulder, with prop tunnels to reduce shaft angles from 14 degrees to 11 degrees, improving the transfer of power and underwater exhausts. Standard power comes from twin fully electronic, 460hp C7 Caterpillar diesel engines that live in an engine room with fully moulded liner.

There are the latest electronic gizmos, like a neat ($14,224 option) telescopic crane that’s way better than the two-stage davits, a fresh interior with improved finish and seriously big dinette, a cockpit that’s truly mindful of the serious game fisher, and many other refinements.

Engineering improvements

Riviera has invested considerably in the engineering of the new 41. It begins with the underwater hull, built from hand laid GRP with a balsa-cored foredeck and cabin structure. The hull shape is a modified 40 with bigger chines, prop tunnels, a three-quarter keel in the Riviera style, changed strakes and a squared off transom – all to provide more lift.

Compared with the 40, the 41 is 8cm shorter in length overall, courtesy of a new bowsprit with integral anchor, but has a 10cm longer moulded hull length which is what matters most. The 41 is also 3cm wider, 150kg heavier due to more gear and a second head, 8cm shallower on the draft thanks to the prop pockets, and carries 210 litres more fuel (or more again if you choose the optional forward tank). There is the same 460 litres of water with room to fit a desalinator.

With its moulded liner, the engine room makes the 41 more refined from an engineering viewpoint. A new, neater and more easily accessible main breaker panel is at the entrance with all the emergency engine-start switches and override switches back aft where you can get to them in a hot engine room. The wiring is simpler and neater, and the engines easier to service. The coolant bottles, Racor fuel filters (including that for the 9.5kW Onan generator, mounted forward), sea strainers and freshwater tap are all back aft.

Part of the reason for more engine room space is the creation of a huge utility room under the galley floor where a wide hatch and short ladder lead down to a huge amount of storage space. You will also find the hot water service here, all the boat’s main plumbing manifolds, the battery charger, inverter (fitted to this boat for generator-free AC for the LCD television), and, should you choose, an optional washer-dryer.

The AC/DC panel on the 41 is more refined with a residual current device, a digital volt gauge, and a lighting and plumbing plan on a ship’s outline that, at a glance, alerts you to what’s running. Way better than the old warning lights above the saloon windscreen (Riv’ owners will know what I mean).

Designs on the outdoors

While essentially the same size as the 40’s, the cockpit is more mindful of game fishing boats but better protected by the extended flybridge overhang, which, with the seating farther aft, not only ensures a good view of the cockpit but allows for a bigger dinette in the bridge. However, the first thing I noticed when I set foot aboard was the new dot-pattern non-skid (deck) that will be easier to clean than the old moulded pattern.

The boarding platform is smarter too, with an integral grab rail so you can hang off the back (also handy for tying off toys) and the swim ladder has a hatch catch allowing you to reverse without it flipping up. The Plastimo hand-held hot/cold deck shower near the marlin door (which seals better than before) is a neat fitting.

Depending on your boating bent, the mid-transom live-bait tank with double hatches is either a fantastic place to keep slimy mackerel or a useful party icebox or bin for the empties. You should also note the hatches are injection moulded on this boat, thereby saving weight, as is the new flybridge hardtop that aims to be half the weight of the old model. Less weight up top is great on any boat.

The moulded steps in the cockpit leading to the sidedecks are less obtrusive and the walkarounds have been widened to improve access to the bow. The Australian-made, 200kg-lift telescopic ADC crane on this boat is a beauty. It has the scope to put a 3.4m Zodiac RIB with 15hp outboard on the foredeck.

Storage space is generous in the cockpit with side lockers, twin long underfloor fish boxes, including macerator pumps, and a tightish lazarette for access to the steering gear but not much else. There is provision for mounting a game chair if that is your thing, plus new toe-under cutouts so you can lean outboard while fighting fish and get support on your thighs rather than stubbing your big toe.

Back under the flybridge overhang is the usual insulated eutectic cool box – this has been extended outboard so you get more internal volume. The sink is on the opposite side to starboard, behind the outward opening saloon door and designed to maximise saloon space. And there is a remote for the Clarion sound system, plus the usual raw and fresh water taps and dockside connections.

Bigger flybridge

The new ladder and aperture improve access to the flybridge with more floor and living space than before. The forward portside lounge can seat two but the L-shaped lounge opposite is a beauty that can accommodate four adults. Add a small fold-up table for cocktail hour – I’m told Riviera might offer such a thing soon – and go for the optional infill that lets you create a double bed in the bridge.

A new angular dash has been designed so you can mount Palm Beach-style split throttle/gear levers either side of the solid Edson wheel, as is often preferred on serious fishing boats. The module also makes better use of space with plenty of room for flush mounting two 15” electronic screens (one Raymarine C120 and ST6002 autopilot are fitted to this boat).

Indoor living

Things have changed dramatically indoors with contemporary saloon lounges that are lower and squarer than the old curved ones with ruched or pleated infills; a much bigger, raised and dedicated dinette to starboard; lovely high-gloss natural cherrywood joinery, thanks to the new varnishing plant; and a more modern, light and spacious look from cream liners.

The small hard-wearing Amtico floor panel as you step inside the saloon is a good thing to cut down on wear. The saloon door opens outwards so it doesn’t get in the way of the wetbar with combo fridge/icemaker, usefully big servery, bottle locker and drawers, plus the AC/DC panel with generator control.

The L-shaped lounge opposite, finished in cream or bone-coloured leather, can seat four or be used by two as a day lounge or bed. Better still is the optional trundle bed that boosts your sleeping capacity by two. And when it’s raining or mid-winter, that trundle bed makes a great place from which to watch videos. Meanwhile, in the ceiling liner is a pushbutton rod locker so you can carry all your fishing gear aboard without hearing “get those rods off the bed!” – another nice detail.

The windows are deeper, letting in more light, and the huge aft window is actually the same size as that on a 56. There are new blinds and an LCD television stand before the dinette to port. Located on a raised section of Amtico flooring that won’t stain, the dinette is huge and able to comfortably seat four for a real sit-down dinner with great views. The table is on a gas pedestal, so even big blokes will fit under it, and there is the option of an infill to create a daybed or second kiddie’s bed.

The galley opposite is still on a mezzanine level, but it’s only one step instead of two from the saloon allowing better discourse between chef and crew. It also features a massive amount of Corian food-preparation space. Amenities range from a recessed two-burner Ceran hob which will let you cook in pots without worrying about spills, to a convection microwave oven, deep sink with separate filtered drinking-water tap, to a quieter extractor fan and a NovaCool bench-height fridge with separate vertical freezer.

Accommodation

It’s a treat getting two cabins and two heads on a 41-footer – the layout is ideal for living aboard with family and/or friends. I’m not sure how many you want to sleep on your Riviera 41, but with a bed in the bridge, trundle bed in the saloon and infill for the dinette all optional, and the standard accommodation layout as tested, you could sleep 11.

Great to see a fixed or optional opening portlight (for which I would want a reed switch and light on the dash letting me know the port’s been left open) in the standard guests’ cabin. At the time of writing the cabin had two single beds and a transverse pullout overhead berth. At least one Sydney dealer said he would prefer to see just two single berths and no overhead bed, plus an infill to make a double, thereby creating more headroom around the beds.

The communal head/guest’s en suite has a new and improved floor with gutters to maximise drainage, a classy semi-recessed porcelain basin, stylish bathroom fittings and Vacuflush loo. Extractor fans and opening hatches assist with ventilation too. There is a lot more floor space in the owner’s en suite to port, which features a lovely separate shower stall.

The stateroom in the bow has the trademark Riviera Island double bed with innerspring mattress. The new bed has squared off corners making it a tad smaller but easier to get aboard. Storage in the stateroom was in side lockers, a hanging locker and wardrobe, plus drawers and a big space below the lift-up bed.

As ever, there were classy bedding packages using neutral and natural hues, nice man-made suede liners and sophisticated fabrics. The blue LED lights are special at night and, from what I could tell, noise levels inside appear to be reduced when running and, I’m guessing, with the generator going too. Not that these are noisy boats.

Offshore test

The C7 Caterpillar engines have an eagerness, responsiveness and a real throatiness that is music to the ears. Top speed (WOT – 2800rpm) was 29.5 to 30kts depending on tide and wind. So consider this a 30-knot boat or, if you’re like me, a 28-knotter by the time you put a shed full of gear aboard.

Cruising figures at 2200rpm are 19.5 to 20kts for 100ltr/hr on both engines, giving a safe range of 360 nautical miles, with 10 per cent of the fuel supply in reserve. Optimum cruise is around 2450rpm and 23.5 knots for 120lt/hr and a range of about 350-plus nautical miles. At 2600rpm the Riviera 41 was doing 26kts with the Cats consuming 135 litres for a 340 nautical-mile range. So, fast or slow, there’s not that much in it. I’d go fast!

Offshore the boat did, as intended, run flatter and it seemed really nice and smooth with no thumping in the abating conditions. The hull pushes a fair bit of water off its bow, perhaps running a degree too flat, but more fuel will right that (it had just a quarter of a tank of fuel). The spray also tended to stay outboard and not end up on the clears. By the end I came away impressed by the ride.

Looking back, the 40 was Riviera’s biggest-selling boat but that spot is now filled by the more-than-a-million-dollar Riviera 47. But, with the advancements in engines, electronics and ergonomics, the 41 could just regain the top spot.

Specifications Riviera 41 Flybridge Convertible (Platinum)

Construction: GRP hull, cored decks and hardtop

LOA: 14.03m

Beam: 4.57m

Draft: 1.13m

Weight: 13,650kg dry w/std motors

Fuel: 2000lt

Water: 460lt

Holding tank: 150lt

Engines 2 x six-cylinder Caterpillar C7 (fuel injected, turbocharged and aftercooled)

Rated HP: 460 @ 2800rpm

Gearboxes: Twin Disc 1.75:1

Props: Four-blade bronze

Price as Tested $973,414 w/ twin C7 Caterpillar diesel motors and options

Priced From $861,479 w/ twin Caterpillar C7 460hp diesel engines

 

 

Full Article:    The Fishing Website
More News:  GoFishTalk

Fishing Fun

Photo Credit: Google Images

Hobie Mirage Sport Fisherman

 

The Hobie Mirage Sport Fisherman was designed for youth and adults who are smaller in stature or the six-footer who's looking for an extremely light-weight pedaling kayak. Move the seat forward and adjust the Mirage Drive to accommodate users as small as four feet. Pedal it, paddle it or sail it … it's the mini-SUV of the Hobie kayak family.

Features & Specifications

 

Specifications

• Length:9' 7"
• Width:19 1/2"
• Weight:45 lbs. (Add 6.6 lbs. for MirageDrive)
• Capacity:245 lbs.

Fishing Kayak Features

• Rotomolded Polyethylene Hull with Color-coordinated Molded-in Graphics
• Color Choices: Ivory Dune and Olive
• Note: Ivory Dune and Olive Boats Feature Fish Graphics
• Hobie Mirage Drive Mechanism
• Spare Rudder Pin In Aft Hatch Lid
• Steering System with Kick-up “Twist and Stow” Rudder
• Rear Cargo Storage Area
• Deluxe Lumbar-support High-profile Plug-in Seatback with Detachable Pack
• Deluxe Two-piece Paddle
• Gear Bucket
• Adjustable Seat Positioning to Accomodate Full Range of Kayakers
• Scuppers Accept Plug-in Kayak Cart
• On-Deck Receptacle with Cap for Sail Mast, Dive Flag, etc.
• Cassette Plug for Drive Well
• Molded-in Drink Holder
• Molded-in Fishing Rod Holders with Caps
• On-hull Paddle Storage
• Mesh-covered Stowage Pocket
• Bungee® Tie Down Straps for Rear Cargo Area
• Padeyes
• Bow and Stern Carrying Handles
• PCB Water Bottle

The Mirage Sport Package also includes

• Two round "Twist and Seal" Storage Hatches
• Mid-Boat Carrying Grip
• Molded-in Utility Trays

Hobie Mirage Sport Fisherman - $1699.00



Full Article:   Backyard Boats

Mazoney arif di perairan Pulau Kapas

Oleh Osman Lisut

TEKONG yang bagus ialah mereka mahir dan berilmu pengetahuan menjejak lubuk ikan, mengetahui bacaan arus air, masa sesuai untuk memancing, pakar mengenai laut serta memahami kehendak pelanggan, pemancing. Di samping, mampu memberikan perkhidmatan terbaik dan hasil tangkapan lumayan setiap kali menganjurkan trip memancing.
TEKONG yang bagus ialah mereka mahir dan berilmu pengetahuan menjejak lubuk ikan, mengetahui bacaan arus air, masa sesuai untuk memancing, pakar mengenai laut serta memahami kehendak pelanggan, pemancing. Di samping, mampu memberikan perkhidmatan terbaik dan hasil tangkapan lumayan setiap kali menganjurkan trip memancing.

Bagaimanapun, hasil tangkapan tidak menjadi masalah kepada pemancing kerana mereka faham serta akur setiap rezeki datangnya daripada Allah. Walaupun sudah berusaha untuk mendapatkan hasil tangkapan lumayan, namun kalau yang Esa masih enggan memberinya, pemancing reda.

Pada masa yang sama, tekong yang ramah, bertanggungjawab dan mudah berurusan sering menjadi rebutan kaki pancing, memandangkan mereka lebih senang berkomunikasi sama ada di darat ketika membuat tempahan, mahupun di laut ketika turun memancing.

Bagi Mazoney Mohd, 36, (gambar) berkata, pemancing umpama taukeh di atas bot dan apabila tempahan sudah dibuat, menjadi tanggungjawab tekong membawa mereka ke lubuk yang dikehendaki, di samping menyediakan peralatan tambahan seperti yang dikehendaki.

“Menjadi kebiasaan, saya akan bertanya terlebih dulu apa yang ingin dipancing pelanggan. Saya akan mencadangkan masa dan lokasi yang sesuai. Jika ada pemancing mahupun mereka dibawa ke tempat lain, saya akan mengikutnya.

“Namun, pemancing juga perlu akur dengan nasihat tekong dan mengetahui keadaan air terlebih dulu sebelum menempah bot. Jika tidak, sia-sia saja trip yang disertai dan jangan dipersalahkan saya kerana sebelum ini nasihat sudah diberikan,” katanya.

Mewarisi pengalaman daripada bapanya yang juga seorang nelayan bubu suatu ketika dulu, Tekong Mazoney amat arif mengenai perairan Marang terutama di sekitar Pulau Kapas dan Pulau Gemia yang terkenal dengan spesies aruan tasik, jemuduk, ebek dan kerapu.

Walaupun ikan berkenaan tidaklah bersaiz mega berbanding perairan lain, namun aksi ganas aruan tasik dan ebek sudah cukup meletihkan kaki pancing yang baru-baru berjinak-jinak dalam hobi berkenaan.

Mazoney berkata, walaupun tugasnya sepenuh masa adalah memasang bubu di perairan berkenaan, namun jika ada tempahan atau rakan memintanya membawa kumpulan pemancing, beliau tidak akan menolaknya.

“Itu juga rezeki... kalau hendak harapkan hasil tangkapan bubu kadang kala tidak mencukupi. Lebih-lebih lagi musim tengkujuh di mana nelayan tidak turun ke laut dan menghabiskan masa di rumah memeriksa dan membaiki bubu atau jaring rosak,” katanya.
Selain menggunakan peralatan moden untuk mengesan ikan di dasar laut serta kedalaman air, Mazoney dapat menggunakan gerak rasa dan hati untuk mengesan sesuatu sama ada buruk atau baik yang bakal berlaku. Ini satu rahsia baginya yang tidak boleh dikongsi dengan orang lain.

Beliau berpegang kepada amalan merendah diri dan bertanggungjawab ketika berada di laut. Sikap begini sekali gus memberi kepuasan kepada pemancing dalam semua aspek sambil terus membantu tekong untuk mendapatkan lokasi yang terbaik.

Mereka yang ingin merasai pengalaman memancing di sekitar perairan Marang (Pulau Kapas) boleh menghubungi 019-9637879.


Source:   Joran

What Makes the Trout in Ecuador Look Like Salmon?

Billboards and advertisements depicting huge and beautiful rainbow trout announce to travelers in much of the Ecuadorian Andes that fishing is one reason to come here. Photo by Alastair Bland.

A crisp, clear stream flows out of Cajas National Park on a 20-mile circuitous route down to the town of Cuenca—but few fish live in these wild waters. Yet the Quinuas River Valley it forms is a hot destination for sport fishermen. They come by the hundreds each weekend, mostly from Cuenca, seeking the most popular game fish in the world: the rainbow trout.
“What kind of trout live in here?” I ask a young man who serves me coffee at Cabana del Pescador, the campground where I have stayed the night. I am only curious how locals refer to the species Oncorhynchus mykiss, which is native to North American and Siberian streams that enter the Pacific but has been introduced to virtually all suitable habitat on earth. In Ecuador, the species first arrived in the 1960s.
“Normal trout,” he says.
I aim to catch a few fish today and have them for dinner, but I move on, up the road, looking for a happier place to fish. The pond here is muddy, surrounded by concrete and a chain-link fence. Trouble is, I won’t find much better. This valley, though populated by a few wild trout in the streams and lakes of Cajas National Park, is a busy center of aquaculture. Trout farming is generally considered a clean and sustainable industry, though it isn’t always pretty. For a stretch of seven or eight miles downstream of the park, nearly every roadside farm has a handful of concrete-banked pools on the premises, fed by stream water and swarming with trout about 12 inches long.

The trout ponds at Reina del Cisne restaurant and fishing club. Photo by Alastair Bland

Up the road, after passing a half dozen possible fishing sites, I pull in to one called Reina del Cisne, at kilometer 21. It is a restaurant and sport fishing “club,” as the sign tells visitors. I have coffee—Nescafé, as always—inside. When I am finished, I ask if there is an opportunity to fish here, and the teenage waiter beckons me to follow. “It’s 50 cents to rent a pole,” he says. “Then, we weigh the trout, and you pay $2.25 per pound.” The biggest fish in the ponds out back are more than ten pounds, he tells me.
He pulls one rod from a heap of several dozen—a broomstick-like pole with a stout line tied to the end and a silver barbed hook at the tip. He quickly mixes up a bucket of bread dough to use as bait, drops a hunk into a shopping-style woven basket and hands me my tackle.
“What kind of trout are these?” I ask, still fishing for local lingo.
“Salmon trout. They have red meat,” he says. He adds, “Good luck,” and returns to the restaurant.
For an angler who has fished in the Rockies and the Sierra Nevada and Alaska and New Zealand, this is a sad comparison, and I feel a strange desire to either cry or laugh hysterically. This would make a perfect opportunity for kids, but I know what real fishing, in real waters, is. Here, I have three ponds to choose from—two of them rectangular, concrete basins, the other a muddy, oval-shaped pool 30 feet across with grassy banks. I flick a piece of dough into this most natural-appearing of the options. Several trout dart from the murk as the white ball vanishes in an instant. I bait my hook and fling it into the middle of the pond, slightly embarrassed that I am participating in what locals advertise as pesca deportiva—or “sport fishing.” A similar flurry of fish attack and strip the hook. I re-bait and try again and this time hook instantly into a feisty rainbow. I drag it in and onto the bank, whack it cold with a stick and drop it in my basket. One down, and in another five minutes I have a second fish. I could take more but, frankly, this isn’t fun or engaging. A year ago exactly I was cycling around New Zealand, casting flies at wild trout six times this size and immeasurably more thrilling to catch—wary, elusive, picky and beautiful. The challenge of enticing one to strike made success an accomplishment. Best of all was the experience of being there, fish or none, standing in crystal clear waters surrounded by green meadows and the tall peaks of the Southern Alps. Indeed, fishing is largely about interacting with the environment, and if one catches no trout on an expedition into the mountains, something else is still gained.
But no matter how big a fish one may pull from a concrete-lined pond, using dough balls for bait, the experience feels as hollow as shopping in a supermarket. While I’m here, I hope I might tangle with an eight-pounder, but no such beast shows itself. I wonder if perhaps they tell all guests that giant trout live in these ponds to encourage business. But back inside the restaurant, my hosts show me the de-boned meat of a 14-pounder caught the day before. The meat is thick and heavy and a delicious-looking salmon red. I ask what the trout eat. “Natural food,” owner Maria Herrera tells me.

Maria Herrera, in the dining room of her restaurant Reina del Cisne, stands with a young employee and the de-boned meat of a 14-pound trout taken from the stocked fish tanks in back. Photo by Alastair Bland.

Down the road, at kilometer 18, I visit a government-run fish hatchery. I roll down the dirt drive, across the stream on a wooden bridge and up a short rise to the facility. I introduce myself to two men in yellow slickers, ankle deep in a muddy concrete basin full of thrashing foot-long trout. The station director, Lenin Moreno, tells me that more than 8,000 adult fish live here. He and his colleague, Ricardo Mercado, are currently trying to get an exact head count in a tank swarming with, they guess, about 300 fish. They take a break and show me to the laboratoria—the hatchery. In the trays and tanks of this covered, concrete-walled facility, 1.3 million juveniles are produced each year and sold to aquaculture operations in four provinces, Moreno tells me.
Outside, they show me a rectangular basin teeming with huge rainbows, green-backed, red-sided beauties that remind me of the two-foot-long giants of New Zealand. Visitors may come here to buy these trout, Moreno tells me. The fish go for $1.50 per pound.

Five- and six-pound rainbow trout cruise through the waters of a 6- by 30-foot concrete basin at a government trout hatchery and farm at kilometer 18 on the Cuenca-Cajas National Park highway. Photo by Alastair Bland.

I ask if the meat is red like salmon. “No—it’s white,” Moreno tells me. “But at the fish farms they feed the trout pigment.”
This doesn’t surprise me. The rainbow trout I grew up on were generally white-fleshed fish. Only occasionally on family camping trips as we cleaned our catch would we discover with excitement that the trout had natural pink meat, which tends to be richer and fattier than paler flesh. But in Ecuador’s many fish markets, I have not yet seen a trout fillet that wasn’t colored like salmon, and I’ve suspected all along that this attractive color (which I’ll admit has drawn my wallet from my pocket more than once) was artificially induced. I recall seeing the fillet of a trout caught in New Zealand just outside the outflow of a Chinook salmon farm that was clearly affected by such pigment—probably either synthetic astaxanthin or canthaxanthin, both used in most commercial salmon farming operations (and the latter of which may cause retinal damage). The trout had presumably been eating pellet feed that escaped from the salmon pens, and the meat was partially colored, patchy red and white like a tie-dyed shirt. Yuck.
I poached my farm-caught trout in cheap Chilean Sauvignon Blanc at my hostel in Cuenca, just off the main street of Calle Larga. The meal was fine and exactly what I had been aiming for when I plunked that ball of dough into the pond at Reina del Cisne. But the fish didn’t quite taste up to par. Because although pink-fleshed trout are a sure catch in the mountain fishing ponds of Ecuador, something else, less easy to describe, native to places like Montana and British Columbia, may evade you with every fish landed.

Neither native nor wild, these small rainbow trout were pulled from a stocked pond in Ecuador, where the species was introduced in the 1960s. Photo by Alastair Bland.

Read more: http://blogs.smithsonianmag.com/adventure/2013/02/trout-fishing-in-ecuador/#ixzz2L3W5D0sD
Follow us: @SmithsonianMag on Twitter

More Fishing News: http://gofishtalk.com

Headlamps

A range of headlamps for individual use in a variety of situations, combining convenience and performance.

Coleman’s headlamps feature high power LED; walking through the campsites at night, reading in the tent – both hands are kept free.

 

All our headlamps are tested to ANSI FL1 standard.

CustomerService@Coleman.eu

Description

• Ultra-bright headlamp with axis positioning pivot head with easy access push button.

Features

Ultra-bright headlamp with axis positioning pivot head with easy access push button.

• Light output: 33 high / 13 low
• Beam distance: 22m high / 16m low
• Runtime: 66 hours low / 25 hours high
• Ref: 205462

 

Full Article:  Coleman

Ultimate Fishing Kayak

How to Build a Flat Bottomed Boat

Straitedge Angler(Kayak)

Advanced Elements

Straitedge Angler

AE1006-ANG

For Kayak Fishing

Price: $1230.00 SGD $930.00 SGD

IN STOCK

Ships To: Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, South Korea, South Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Vietnam

Note: Paddles and pumps sold separately

About Advanced Elements
Advanced Elements is a leader in designing and manufacturing inflatable kayaks. Easy to inflate and portable, the Advanced Elements kayaks can be quickly setup in minutes. By incorporating quality materials with the latest technology, Advanced Elements strives to produce high quality, performance kayaks at a reasonable price. Whether for leisure, touring, fishing, sport, adventure, or simply paddling exercise, with so many models to choose from, there is bound to be one kayak design suitable for your paddling and watersport needs. Trust the Advanced Elements brand for a safe and enjoyable paddling experience!

Every kayak purchase from ActiveSports comes with a Singapore and Asia warranty and servicing support. All Advanced Elements Kayaks purchases have 1-year limited warranty. Advanced Elements, Inc warrants the kayaks to be free from defects in material or workmanship for a period of 1 year from the date of purchase. Products that prove to be defective under conditions of normal and proper use during the warranty period will be replaced or repaired without charge.


Product DescriptionThe Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayaks are durable, light-weight and patented designs, built with cutting edge technology. These kayaks can be easily packed into a bag and be brought anywhere for paddling. With Advanced Elements Kayaks, you are always ready for your next kayaking adventure.
The Advanced Elements Straitedge Angler is designed with the needs of the kayak angler in mind. Its wide beam provides maximum stability while bringing in big catches. The Advanced Elements Straitedge Angler include the Accessory Mounting Rail and comes with an ultra-comfortable high back seat with two rod holders and an inflatable lumbar support for long hours kayaking on water. It also has added abrasion pads and multi air chambers to provide maximum durability for aggressive conditions. With stainless steel D-rings, bungee deck lacing for abundant gear storage, paddle holders, the Straitedge Angler is the kayak fishing enthusiasts have been waiting for!

Product Specifications

Color	Length	Width	Weight	Maxweight	Chambers	Folded size
Yellow/Gray	294cm	89cm	18kg	136kg	5	30 x 17 x 10 inches

Product Features

1. Hull Design: Built-in aluminum ribs define the bow and stern and improve tracking.
2. Versatile: The Accessory Mounting Bar gives the ability to mount aftermarket rod holders, fish finder and other equipment.
3. Easy to Set Up: PreAssembled at the factory. Simply unfold, inflate and attach the seat.
4. Comfortable: High support, adjustable lumbar seat provides comfort for hours of paddling.
5. Durable: Abrasion Pads in high use area for maximum durability.

Product Includes

1. Carrying Duffel Bag
2. Lumbar Seat
3. Repair Kit
4. Owner Manual
5. Rod Holders
6. Accessory Mounting Rail

 

Product Advice
What you need to buy to get started.
Advanced Elements inflatable kayaks - Besides selecting the kayak, please choose a foot pump or a hand pump for inflating and deflating the kayak and add a paddle from the range of paddles available to complete your package. For a basic package, you will need a kayak, a pump, a paddle and a PFD/life vest to get started.

The Twilight Paddle is the most popular standard paddle. The Packlite paddle is a lighter paddle and has smaller blade surface area which can make paddling easier on the arms. The Touring paddle has light weight features, a bigger blade surface area for more power output. The Adaptour paddle has adjustable angle feature for better performance paddling. The Axis Fibreglass Paddle is ultra-light compared to the rest and it is made of fibreglass.

The Bellows Foot pump is the basic pump for inflation and deflation. The Double Action Hand pump saves time on inflation and deflation compared to the Bellows Foot Pump. The Double Action Hand Pump with pressure gauge allows you to check the pressure reading.

When purchasing a two seater kayak, remember to select a quantity of 2 paddles for tandem paddling.

All AE Kayaks come with an instruction manual on proper inflation and deflation techniques. You can register for warranty by mailing the form to AE or registering via online website.

Exercise safety by wearing life vests at all times. Check the weather, tide tables and inform or go with a buddy for day trips out at sea.

AE Kayaks are US patented designed kayaks made of durable, high quality materials. Take proper care and maintenance to ensure the look and feel of your kayak. Use water to wash off salt water and allow time to dry and store properly after each use.

Inflate and deflate air properly. About 50% of the air should be pumped via the first main chamber valve and the remaining 50% in the second main chamber. Never over inflate or force more air into the kayak. Deflate air by using the pump. Do not force air out by sitting on the kayak or folding the air out.

With proper care and maintenance, your kayak can last a good many years.

Pike found choked on zander in Netherlands

 

By Patrick Jackson BBC News

Mr Spaargaren found the fish near his home

Anglers are scratching their heads after a pike was found dead with a zander - a fish of similar size - jammed in its mouth in the Netherlands.

Rene Spaargaren, from Almere near Amsterdam, noticed the dead fish locked together in water near his home and dragged them out with a boat hook.

"It was clear that the pike had bitten off more than it could chew - or swallow, rather," he told BBC News.

British angling expert Charles Jardine said the event was "really unusual".

"What on Earth possessed the pike to take on prey that size?" he asked. "Gluttony just killed that fish."

Mr Spaargaren reported his find to the Dutch nature conservation news website Natuurbericht, which published the story and one of his incredible photographs.
'Not a python'
He came across the fish while doing some work by his jetty this week.

The pike was unable to release its catch once it had bitten

Having calculated roughly that the pike measured about 1m (3.2ft) long and the zander about 75cm (2ft 5in), with a combined weight of about 15 kilos (33lb), he threw them back in the water.

Speaking to the BBC, Mr Jardine explained that the zander, sometimes known as the "pike-perch" because of its similarities to the two other species of fish, was an unusual choice of target for a pike.

"A pike is not an alligator or a python - it will not accommodate similar-sized food," he told the BBC.

"Because the teeth on a pike go backward, it would have been unable to release its grip on the zander. It was a death grip for the fish."

Mr Jardine, who champions angling among schoolchildren for the Countryside Alliance Foundation, added: "I have seen Victorian pictures of such things, done with artistic licence, but nobody gave them much credence."

A similar phenomenon was reported in Suffolk, England, in October 2011, when a pike was found dead with a carp in its mouth.

However, that pike was more than four times the size of its prey, according to an article in the UK's Daily Mail newspaper.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-20971848

Review: Native Watercraft "Slayer 12"

Written by Mark Watanabe

 

While in Virginia Beach, VA for the Columbus Day Boondoggle, I got to meet Woody Callaway from Liquidlogic Kayaks. Strapped to the trailer of the Liquidlogic RV was their newest kayak: the Native Watercraft “Slayer”. I jokingly asked Woody when I would be fishing out of the Slayer, and without hesitation, he said, “Tomorrow!”.

Initial impressions: The Native Watercraft Slayer 12 is clean and uncluttered - everything had its purpose. The overall lines on the kayak are very sleek with everything recessed nicely.

Portability: The Slayer 12 is listed at 70 lbs., but felt lighter. This is probably due to all the handles being solid, allowing you to control the kayak much more easily. All Slayers come equipped with the “Tag Along Wheel”. I tested it at the launch with the kayak fully loaded with gear. The Tag Along Wheel made the move from the car to the launch a breeze. The solid bow handle positioned horizontally made controlling the kayak extremely easy. This was the first stand-out feature of the Slayer that sets it apart from other similar kayaks.

Performance: On the water, you quickly feel like you’re paddling a much skinner kayak. The Slayer handled well in both stand up paddling and standard sitting paddling. The raised seated position felt tippier than the lower seated position, but this is the case with all kayaks.

The second stand out feature was the High Low First Class Seat. Switching between the high and low seated positions was very simple. Native uses bungees to hold the seat in place, so a simple lift and scoot allowed me to move it between positions without having to undo straps or clips. I did initially have concerns over the seat only being secured this way, but Native did a great job of molding the seat pan area to allow a nice, snug fit. The seat never felt loose or unsecure in either position, and was extremely comfortable.

Another positive was an extremely shallow draft. There are several sandbars out at Lynnhaven Bay that were no deeper than 6 inches, and I was able to paddle across them without issue.

Standability: I have yet to stand in a 31” wide kayak that felt this stable. The deck is very flat; I always had a stable position for my feet. The deck is right at or slightly below the waterline, which gives the kayak extra stability. One issue with the deck being this low is with the scupper plugs removed, water does come in slightly. I also feel the Slayer would benefit from adding a strap towards the bow to help in standing from the lower position.

Fishability: The Slayer is equipped with recessed groove tracks on the stern, midship and bow. This made it very easy for me to quickly add a couple of Scotty mounts and my YakAttack “Panfish”. There is also a small console designed to store your battery, and also mount any electronics you like to a groove track. The model I used had the groove track mounted directly to the console but Woody told me that the new models with have the track recessed like all the others.

The foam padding around the cup holder, accessory tray, and rod tip rests is a nice touch. The rod tip rests fit my bait casters, but didn’t fit my spinning rods very well; the larger guides on the spinning rods didn’t allow the rods to rest properly.

While on the water, I didn’t even notice the Plano box storage on the side of the seats. This would have made changing out tackle much easier with my Plano boxes right next to me.

While anchored or staked out, the Slayer would benefit greatly from an anchor trolley. I also noticed the Tag Along Wheel knocking with the side to side movement of the kayak. I mentioned this to Woody, and he said that it was an easy fix. I also missed a paddle keeper, there are no paddle keepers installed by the factory so you will have to add them yourself.

The final stand-out feature is the Slayers stability. I was able to fish all day in the kayak, turn around and grab tackle out of my crate, and access my gear in the bow without issue. When we got back to the launch, several others tried out the Slayer. People who have never stood in a kayak easily stood and paddled the Slayer.

Summary: I believe the Native Watercraft Slayer 12 will be in the running for next year’s KACA’s as Kayak of the Year. It’s stable, tracks well, is quick and nimble for a wider kayak, is easily moved using the Tag Along Wheel, and has a seating system that allows you to move from high to low seating positions with ease. When I’m in the market for a new paddling kayak, I’m almost positive it will be a Slayer!

Boat Specs	Boat Features
Length: 12' Width: 31" Weight: 70 lbs Capacity: 400 lbs	Groove Track High/Low First Class Seat Electronics Console Cup Holder Open Bow Hatch w/ Scuppers Quiet Stable Hull Tag Along Wheel

 

 

 

Full Article: http://www.yakangler.com/fishing-kayak-reviews/

Offshore kayak set up

It’s Lightline Time: Safety in the Night

 Written by Ben Hoover    

There’s nothing like the feeling of creeping under the darkness of a bridge to see a group of stripers stacked like cordwood, picking your target, and hooking up. As temperatures drop around the Mid-Atlantic, stripers are gravitating to lighted structure, creating some of the best fishing of the year for kayak anglers.

Catching these fish is usually simple, but it’s easy to forget the dangers lurking in the dark: wind, weather, waves, and powerboats, among others. This is a simple primer on the incidentals of lightline fishing, beyond the catch; anglers far better versed than I have covered these topics in extensive detail.
*The opinions expressed in this user-submitted review are those of the reviewer, and do not necessarily reflect the view of YakAngler.com.
A lightline trip begins with a last-minute check of the weather and tides to ensure that we’re not heading out into the proverbial washing machine, or worse. Some chop is good, as it seems to fire up the fish and keep the crowds off the water. A placid night can turn in an instant, so keeping an eye or ear on your phone (http://www.yakangler.com/blogs/user-blogs/item/1675-there-is-an-app-for-that) or weather radio is wise, though somewhat difficult with the promise of more fish under the next span. Some of us just rely on the forecast and avoid truly questionable nights.


At minimum, a good, bright, white light on a tall lightpole is essential if you want to avoid becoming roadkill. The lightline concentrations of fish draw plenty of attention and there are too many people zooming around without regard for their surroundings. The “VISICarbon Pro” from YakAttack is quite popular, and there are many other viable options, including building your own setup from PVC. Reflective tape, strategically placed on your boat and paddle, is likewise a good call. Many lifejackets and marine coats have reflective patches, and it’s easy enough to add them—cheap life insurance. Top it all off with a quality headlamp. If you really want to go all out, you could run this setup and pimp your ride, http://www.yakangler.com/forum/21-look-what-i-did/20870-did-anybody-spot-this-at-the-boondoggle-last-night, or buy a glow-in-the dark boat, http://www.yakangler.com/forum/20-water-cooler/20859-if-you-paddle-alot-at-night. Lights and reflectors are the first line of defense before our whistles or airhorns come out.


In the early season, clothing is really a no-brainer, but when the air and water temperatures really drop, clothing can make or break a nighttime assault. It almost goes without saying, but this type of fishing requires a comfortable lifejacket that you’ll wear at all times. For an outer layer, most go with a dry top and a pair of waders, or a full-on drysuit. It’s best to turtle-test this outfit under controlled conditions before it becomes truly cold. Underneath the outer shell, layering is key: wicking garments, some wool or fleece, good socks, a hat, and you’re good to go—no cotton! A good pair of wool or neoprene gloves completes the outfit.
“When you’re fishing the lightlines, make sure your head is always on a swivel.” This is perhaps the most important piece of safety advice I’ve received, and it came from a great lightliner, Jeff Greendyk, of Orvis Richmond. For that matter, I typically use the buddy system, so someone is watching my back and ready to help at a moment’s notice. A pair of radios is helpful for calling your buddy if you’re separated by more than a few sets of pilings.
It can get crowded, it can get crazy, and the conditions can be brutal; nevertheless, with a bit of preparation, there’s no better place to be on a cold winter night than under the darkness of a bridge span, hooked up.

---

About the Author: Ben is an avid kayak angler who plies the waters of Hampton Roads, Virginia with fly and light tackle. A transplanted Yankee, he developed a true taste for the salt after moving south of the Mason-Dixon. He remains loyal to http://www.flyfishersparadiseonline.com/, his employer throughout college. Ben can be found on the water under cover of darkness, waving a stick in a plastic boat.


Full Article:  http://www.yakangler.com/kayak-fishing-techniques/

Kenali kawasan sekeliling di lokasi baru

Oleh Nuri Angkasa

Photo Credit:  Google Images

SEBAIK tiba di lokasi memancing yang belum pernah diteroka sebelum ini atau dalam erti kata lain anda baru pertama kali turun memancing di kawasan itu maka kumpulan anda dinasihatkan supaya tidak terburu-buru mahu terus melakukan aktiviti memancing.
SEBAIK tiba di lokasi memancing yang belum pernah diteroka sebelum ini atau dalam erti kata lain anda baru pertama kali turun memancing di kawasan itu maka kumpulan anda dinasihatkan supaya tidak terburu-buru mahu terus melakukan aktiviti memancing.

Sebagai tempat baru, anda atau ketua kumpulan harus mengenali tempat itu terlebih dulu. Ini kerana dibimbangi kawasan berkenaan adalah perkampungan makhluk halus yang tidak mahu diganggu. Apa yang terbaik boleh anda dan kumpulan lakukan ialah dengan menunaikan solat sunat mohon perlindungan Allah daripada sebarang gangguan. Ialah, dalam perkara sebegini maka hanya kekuasaan Allah saja yang dapat menyelamatkan keadaan atau melindungi kita.

Di samping itu, kita harus meneliti atau meninjau keadaan sekeliling dan tidak merosakkan tumbuhan yang sedia ada dengan sengaja. Atau jangan sekali-kali mengeluarkan kata-kata yang tidak sopan ataupun celupar. Begitu juga dengan lokasi di laut yang kita sedia maklum bahawa laut adalah tempat buangan hantu syaitan, justeru pantang larangnya adalah ebih besar berbanding di darat.

Di laut, membuang sisa tulang ayam mahu pun saki baki makanan adalah dilarang mengikut petua adat resam orang tua terdahulu daripada kita.

Tindakan sebaik-baiknya ialah sisa makanan disimpan dalam satu bekas plastik (bukan dibuang ke laut) dan buang plastik itu sekembalinya ke daratan ketika kita pulang daripada aktiviti memancing.

Menyedari betapa pentingnya perkara yang dianggap remeh di kalangan generasi muda hari ini yang gemar pada aktiviti memancing maka adalah menjadi tanggungjawab bagi Pak Nuri untuk mengingatkan bahawa apa jua boleh berlaku jika ada unsur-unsur pantang larang dilanggar dengan sengaja.

Apapun, menidakkan pantang larang pada zaman moden ini tidak boleh dilakukan 100 peratus kerana ia masih berkait dengan makhluk halus dan syaitan. Justeru, langkah terbaik ialah menyerah diri kepada Allah (bertawakal) sambil mengharap petunjuk daripada-Nya.

Berdoalah dan minta perlindungan Allah sebaik tiba di lokasi sama ada di darat (hutan) mahu pun di laut, kerana sesuatu yang berlaku itu adalah atas izin-Nya juga. Jadikan doa dan solat sunat hajat sebagai petua yang harus diamalkan oleh kaki pancing sebaik tiba di lokasi memancing.


Full Article:  http://joran.bharian.com.my/

Technical Long Sleeve Sublimated Zip Tee

Features

• UPF Protection
• Wicks moisture and antimicrobial
• 1/4 zip front

Full Article:  http://fish.shimano.com/

 

 

 

Chinese Expert Calls for Fishing Moratorium and Halt to Yangtze Dam

By: Katy Yan

Research staff members monitor the health of endangered finless porpoises at the Tian-e-Zhou Oxbow Nature Reserve.

Photo: Keen Observer9 via Flickr
 

After years of overfishing and rampant dam-building, a senior fisheries expert with the Chinese Academy of Sciences has spoken out against the ecological threats facing the Yangtze River by calling for a 10-year fishing moratorium and joining environmentalists in decrying the proposed Xiaonanhai Dam.
In an article published in Oriental Outlook and translated by chinadialogue, Cao Wenxuan expounded on the importance of key Yangtze River fish species for the entire basin ecosystem and warned against what might happen if fisheries declined even further. His solution is a 10-year moratorium on fishing in the Yangtze so that fish numbers can recover. (This is not the first time scientists have called for a 10-year moratorium; just last year, two other fisheries experts made the same proposal.)
In the article, he and fellow fisheries expert Weng Lida, formerly head of the Yangtze Water Resources Protection Bureau (a body under both the Ministry of Water Resources and the Ministry of Environmental Protection) go on to warn against the Chongqing government’s plans for building Xiaonanhai Dam on the Upper Yangtze River and the impact that the Yangtze dam cascade, which includes Three Gorges Dam, has had on fish numbers. He also strengthened the position of environemntal activists by joining them in their critique of proposed fish passages and tunnels, which activists see as an ineffective solution to mitigating the negative impacts of the dam.

Dam cascade contributing to rapid decline

The Yangtze River is China's biggest freshwater fishery, accounting for 56% of all catches. But fish numbers are dwindling.

Photo: Qiu Bo (Greenpeace)
 

Cao and his colleagues are not alone in doubting the efficacy of fish passages. A recent publication by a host of fish migration professionals concludes from their global experience, “We have learned that it is always better to remove barriers because in this way we can revitalize our rivers. It is almost always cheaper than building a fish pass, and removal has multiple benefits for river naturalization – all aquatic and riparian flora and fauna will benefit! Such solutions can address a range of problems, of which fish migration may be just one” (Executive Summary, From Sea to Source).
[UPDATE: A new study published in Conservation Letters on Jan 16 reported that fish-passages built into dams on three major rivers in northeastern US have failed to allow migratory fish to pass through, raising questions for all the dams being proposed worldwide.]
Here is an excerpt from the article describing the severity of the decline in fish numbers as a result of dam construction on the Yangtze (emphasis added later):

Observations by the Chinese Academy of Sciences found that, before the dam at Gezhou was built, fish eggs and fry from spawning grounds upstream in Chongqing, Wanxian and Zigui would float down to the middle reaches of the river before hatching and growing. Gezhou is a “run-of-the-river” hydropower dam, and most of the eggs and fry which pass through the sluice-gates do survive. But bubbles of gas are found in the bodies of some of the fish, which do not survive.

And at the Three Gorges Dam, where in June 2003 the reservoir was filled to a depth of 139 metres, the majority of the fish passing through the sluices are believed to die as a result of nitrogen poisoning.

In 2007, the reservoir was filled to 156 metres, and 98% of the 316 million fry passing through the dam died. Many of the 912 million fry of the “four farmed fish” passing through in 2008 also died.

Cao explains that a dam changes the natural flow and rise and fall of the water, and this – especially the filling of a deep reservoir – affects the local climate and reduces the river’s ability to cleanse itself. Large quantities of harmful substances are produced, affecting the food chain.

“In the cold water of reservoirs like Anjiang and Danjiangkou, the methylation of heavy metals creates organic substances, which are absorbed by plankton and enter the human food chain and damage health,” says Cao.

“The water flow at Gezhou isn’t bad. The Three Gorges is a bit worse, and then Xiluodu and Baihetan are worse again. And it’s not just methylation. The vegetation at the bottom of the reservoir becomes methane, which is a greenhouse gas – that means carbon emissions.”

The implications of this final remark by Cao is also important given the debates that have raged on over Weibo (China’s Twitter) about whether hydropower can be considered a clean and green source of renewable energy.

Xiaonanhai “in breach of regulations”

The twice-redrawn boundaries for the Upper Yangtze Rare and Endemic Fish National Nature Reserve

The reserve boundaries were redrawn twice from 2005 to 2011 to make way for hydropower development. “It’s as if national nature reserves are optional,” says Cao. “It’s unacceptable. It doesn’t matter if you’re talking about fish or about people – you’ve got to obey the law.”Cao also went on to explain why environmental groups and experts oppose the Xiaonanhai Dam on the Upper Yangtze, which has been avidly promoted by the Chongqing government, despite the location of the dam and its reservoir in the Upper Yangtze Rare and Endemic Fish National Nature Reserve. According to China’s Nature Reserve Regulations, no “production facilities” can be built within the core or buffer zone of a nature reserve, while in the surrounding area, no production facilities are allowed which pollute, damage resources or spoil the appearance of the reserve. “So building this dam, which obviously affects the aquatic ecology, is in breach of this regulation,” says Cao.
In addition, preliminary construction at the dam site began as early as March 29, 2012 despite the lack of an approved Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and wide-spread criticism from experts and the general public. The resettlement process has also begun for the 200,000 people that would be affected, and there are already reports of unfair compensation and lack of prior and informed consultation.
While the project remains on hold, a coalition of environmentalists and activists has called on the public via Weibo to fight the project through the EIA process. They are also calling on the Chongqing government to respect the 18th Party Congress’ commitment to an “ecological civilization,” where economic growth should not be pursued at the expense of biodiversity and livelihoods. It remains to be seen whether the Chongqing government will commit to environmental protection, or whether it will opt for pursuing energy projects that promote polluting growth targets.

Full Article:  http://www.internationalrivers.org/blogs/