By Nur Faradilla Mohamad
MERSING, July 6 (Bernama) — Pantai Penyabong, located about 35km from Mersing, has emerged as a popular destination for anglers during the squid jigging season, which typically takes place between April and August.
The much-anticipated annual event draws crowds from within and outside Mersing, breathing life into the jetty and coastal recreation area, popular for its serene atmosphere and scenic surroundings.
A 37-year-old technician, Ling Kam Ming, said he was willing to make a journey of over two hours from Johor Bahru with four friends, drawn by the beach’s cleanliness and scenic beauty, to try squid jigging for the first time.
Ling says the mix of unspoiled natural surroundings and the unique squid jigging activity creates a memorable moment for beachgoers.
“I am really excited and do not want to miss the chance to experience squid jigging first-hand after friends suggested it,” he told Bernama.
Koick Fatt Soon, 42, a regular visitor, is also of the same view, describing Pantai Penyabong’s appealing landscape as an ideal place to unwind after work.
“The catch is uncertain and depends on luck. The area is also rich in marine life, including kerapu (grouper), stingray, jenahak (red snapper), mackerel and selar (yellowtail scad), as well as prawns and crabs, though this varies by season,” he said.
Pantai Penyabong is also a weekend stopover for consultant Muhammad Mahzan, 37, who fishes while undertaking a good cause.
The Kedah native, who is based in Kulai, said he regularly visits the beach to oversee a project to build a gazebo-style surau on Pulau Layak after realising there were no such facilities during a visit to the island early last month.
“The initiative, with an estimated cost of RM8,000, is funded by public contributions, with building materials either brought in from Kulai or ordered from hardware stores in the area.
“So, while waiting for the boat to transport the goods to Pulau Layak, my friends and I take the opportunity to ‘unwind by fishing,” he added.
— BERNAMA
