🐟 Etsuno-nanbanzuke (Etsu fish dish)

Etsu fish, also known as "phantom fish," is found only in Japan in the area around the mouth of the Chikugo River, which flows into the Ariake Sea. A member of the Japanese anchovy family, it grows to about 30 cm in about three years. Juveniles stay in the river until they are around 5 cm in length, after which they migrate to saltwater areas. From May to July, adult fish migrate up the Chikugo River and other rivers to spawn. Only during this short period is the season open for fishing. The fishing method is drift-net fishing, and since the fish are sensitive to weather and water temperature, fishermen rush out on warm days with a southerly wind. The fish that are caught in the nets bounce and die with their silver scales shaking. Beautiful things have short lives, indeed. This is the reason why it is called a "phantom fish" . The "Etsu Hunting Boat," held during the Etsu fish fishing season, is a popular summer event in Okawa City, offering a close-up view of Etsu fish fishing and enjoying freshly caught Etsu fish cuisine on a houseboat.