Tie one on in Taiwan

W hile many might picture massive skyscrapers and vast cityscapes when they think of the country of Taiwan, there is a small but steadfast fly fishing community on this mountainous island in east Asia.

Most Taiwanese anglers learn to fish like their counterparts in North America: with bait, then graduating to lure fishing. Increasingly, however, fly fishing is making a mark, thanks in part to the influence of its Pacific neighbour, Japan, and also to the growing appreciation for Taiwan’s unique fisheries and available species.

Until recently, most fly anglers in Taiwan were from the north end of the island, near the city of Taipei. Now, however, there is evidence to suggest that interest in fly fishing is spreading out geographically. Regardless of where they call home, most fly anglers in Taiwan are Tenkara practitioners. Originating in Japan’s mountain streams more than 400 years ago, this pared-down engage to fly fishing (fixed line length, no reel) is well-suited to the streams accessible in Taiwan.

Several unique species of fish, including zacco and Taiwanese mahseer (which aren’t actually a mahseer, but a Holland’s Carp), call these waters home. These fish range in size from 10-20 cm. Popular trout patterns such as the Elk Hair Caddis and Soft Hackle can be quite effective to fool them.

The mahseer, while renown as a powerful fish, is also extremely wary. Anglers will need to approach this fish accordingly, taking care not to spook them as they approach. In the spring, a floating line and dry fly combo is key (I like foam beetles). In the fall, fly fishers should consider using a sinking line with a subsurface pattern such as the damsel nymph. The Taiwanese streams where fish are found are typically small and shallow. Take note when using a sinking line. Snags happen!

Another exciting fish found in Taiwan is the tarpon—not the giant tarpon, like you find in the U.S., but the Taiwanese variety. An averagesized tarpon will run between 30 and 50 cm. Like their larger counterparts, tarpon in Taiwan are found in both salt and fresh water. Any streamer pattern will work well when fishing for tarpon. In my own hometown (Yilan county) I’ve had much success with classic trout streamer patterns.

The jungle perch is considered a dream fish in our area. A powerful saltwater species, these fish average between 20 and 40 cms (816 inches) and are not easy to catch. Using patterns such as a foam beetle or Crazy Charlie Streamer, many anglers report hooking up with a jungle perch when targeting mahseer.

Urban fishing opportunities also exist in Taiwan. In and around Taipei City, anglers can find some huge grass carp. These fish can grow upwards of 100 cm (40 inches). Great fishing can be accessed via Taipei’s Mass Rapid Transit system or, depending where you start, by foot. One of the most popular species in Taiwan, grass carp are targeted often and many have been caught and released repeatedly. Carp are well-known for their relative intelligence and fly anglers having difficultly producing an eat on a more traditional pattern will often fish the popular “bread fly” to entice a strike.

Anglers who are interested in seeing the best of Taiwan’s fly fishing can easily access both fresh and saltwater opportunities, often in the same day. There is no requirement to purchase a license to fish in Taiwan, however the small but dedicated angling community encourages catch and release practices in order to preserve this resource for many generations.

Kai Hsun Chen