An annual traditional collective fishing event in Memot district in Tbong Khmum province has been set for February 18.

District authorities expect thousands of people to join the event.

An January 31 notice by Memot district hall said the event will take place at 9am in Boeung Tropang Krorm Lake, located in Satum village, Choam Kravien commune. Tbong Khmum provincial governor Cheam Chan Sophorn will attend the event.

Participants must use traditional fishing equipment, like Angrut, Chhneang, Trak and other traditional fishing equipments.

According to the notice, the lake covers 30ha, including 20 small ponds. The area is well known for its aquatic plants.

Since ancient times, local residents have gathered every February to catch fish.

On February 1, villagers of Bangkong village in Siem Reap’s Prasat Bakong district gather at a lake to catch fish at a traditional annual spiritual ceremony, the only day of the year that they allow the practice, as a means to preserve the population of the aquatic gill-bearing creatures.