Fishing vessels depart from Taizhou. [Photo provided by Wang Yijun and Xu Zhanghua]

The sound of whistles and salutes marked the departure of more than 650 fishing vessels from major ports in Taizhou, East China's Zhejiang province, on Sept 16, signaling the end of the summer fishing moratorium and the start of the full fishing season in the East China Sea.

The lifting of the ban, which lasted from May 1 to Sept 16, allows all vessel types — including trawlers and gillnetters — to resume operations after months of resource recovery. Earlier in August, some vessels were permitted limited fishing, but the new season means the seafood supply will peak, bringing residents the long-awaited bounty of seafood..

On the morning of the season's opening, fishermen were seen transporting supplies and food to the vessels. To ensure order, Taizhou authorities had enforced port closures in the days prior, inspecting certificates and safety equipment, and preventing early departures. Six patrol vessels from Wenling, a county-level city in Taizhou, escorted fleets at sea, while authorities promoted protective measures against hydrogen sulfide poisoning.

According to the Taizhou municipal bureau of marine economy, the strict enforcement of the fishing moratorium is helping sustain ecological balance in the East China Sea. With fleets now fully operational, fresh seafood will steadily reach markets, satisfying public demand in the months ahead.