South Korea is a fishing paradise, offering a diverse array of freshwater and saltwater species for anglers to enjoy. Whether you prefer the tranquility of a river or the thrill of deep-sea fishing, there’s something for everyone in this East Asian nation. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most common fish species found in Korean waters and provide insights into the best fishing spots and techniques to help you make the most of your angling adventures.
Freshwater Fish Species in South Korea
South Korea’s rivers, lakes, and streams are home to a variety of freshwater fish species, each with its unique characteristics and appeal to anglers. Here are some of the most common and sought-after freshwater fish in Korea:
Carp: Known for their fighting spirit and delicious flesh, carp are a popular target for freshwater anglers in South Korea. They can be found in many of the country’s rivers and lakes.
Trout: Both rainbow trout and brown trout are stocked in many of Korea’s fishing streams and reservoirs. These hard-fighting fish are a favorite among fly fishermen and spin anglers alike.
Eel: Korean freshwater eels, known locally as “jeon-eo,” are a delicacy and a popular target for anglers. They can be caught using live bait or eel traps in rivers and streams.
Lampreys: These primitive, eel-like fish are found in several Korean rivers. While not as common as other species, they are a unique catch for anglers.
Steelhead: Steelhead trout, known as “soha-seong mu-ji-gae song-eo” in Korean, are anadromous fish that spend most of their lives in the ocean but return to freshwater rivers to spawn. They are found in some of Korea’s east coast rivers.
Sturgeon: While not as abundant as other species, sturgeon can be found in some of Korea’s larger rivers. These prehistoric fish are a prized catch for anglers.
Herring: Anadromous herring species, such as the Pacific herring, enter Korean rivers to spawn. They can be caught using small lures or bait.
Catfish: Several species of catfish, including the Korean bullhead and the Asian catfish, inhabit Korean rivers and lakes. They are known for their fighting ability and are often targeted by anglers.
Puffers: Freshwater puffers, such as the Mekong puffer, can be found in some of Korea’s slower-moving rivers and streams. They are a unique catch and are sometimes eaten as a delicacy.
Flatfish: While more commonly found in saltwater, some species of flatfish, such as the Korean flounder, can be caught in estuaries and the lower reaches of rivers.
Saltwater Fish Species in South Korea
South Korea’s coastline stretches for over 2,400 kilometers, offering anglers a wealth of opportunities to target a variety of saltwater fish species. Here are some of the most common and popular saltwater fish in Korea:
Croaker: Several species of croaker, including the small yellow croaker and the East Asian croaker, are found in Korean waters. They are a popular target for both commercial and recreational anglers.
Mackerel: Korean waters are home to several species of mackerel, including the chub mackerel and the spotted mackerel. These fast-swimming predators are a favorite among anglers who enjoy the thrill of the chase.
Tuna: While not as abundant as some other species, tuna can be caught in Korean waters. Skipjack tuna and yellowfin tuna are the most common species targeted by anglers.
Octopus: Octopus are a popular target for anglers in Korea, especially those who enjoy fishing from shore or from small boats. They can be caught using a variety of techniques, including jigging and baiting.
Flatfish: Several species of flatfish, including the bastard halibut and the Korean flounder, are found in Korean coastal waters. They are a popular target for anglers who enjoy bottom fishing.
Cod: Pacific cod and other cod species can be caught in the colder waters off Korea’s east coast. They are a popular target for anglers who enjoy deep-sea fishing.
Seabream: Several species of seabream, including the red seabream and the black seabream, are found in Korean coastal waters. They are a popular target for anglers who enjoy fishing from shore or from small boats.
Rockfish: Several species of rockfish, including the spotbelly rockfish and the Korean rockfish, are found in Korean coastal waters. They are a popular target for anglers who enjoy fishing from shore or from small boats.
South Korea offers a diverse array of fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you prefer the challenge of targeting hard-fighting freshwater species or the excitement of deep-sea fishing for pelagic predators, there’s something for everyone in this East Asian fishing paradise. With a little preparation and some local knowledge, you’re sure to have a memorable angling adventure in South Korea.