Chagan Lake in China's Jilin Province is making waves this winter with its 24th Ice and Snow Fishing and Hunting Cultural Tourism Festival! ❄️ Thousands braved -20°C temperatures to witness fishermen hauling massive catches through ice holes using traditional horse-drawn winches—a centuries-old ritual that’s *cooler* than your average TikTok trend. 🐴
The highlight? A 19-kilogram "first fish" auctioned for a jaw-dropping 1,699,999 yuan ($238,000), with proceeds funding eco-protection efforts to keep the lake thriving. 💸🌱 Talk about a catch that keeps on giving!
Beyond fishing, the festival serves up snow football leagues and ice hockey tournaments—perfect for adrenaline junkies. 🏒⚽️ Local vendors also dish out steaming hot regional delicacies, proving winter in Northeast China is anything but boring.
"This isn’t just about fish—it’s about preserving our heritage," said a festival organizer, as visitors snapped selfies with frosty nets and glittering ice sculptures. 📸❄️
