Key Points
- Originally from Hong Kong, Bryant Wong has been fishing around Sydney Harbour for 24 years.
- He now guides senior members of the Chinese community to the best fishing spots.
- Wong has documented 1,800 different fishing spots.
Wong, whose family were involved with island tourism back in Hong Kong, said his interest in fishing began at age six.
The happiness of not knowing what fish you’ll catch, that sense of surprise, is like opening a present, and it fascinated me.
Bryant Wong
Wong mentioned that during the ‘explosive water’ period (the time between day and night, when it’s just getting dark), there would be especially large fish, ensuring a good catch. Credit: SBS
‘Explore every corner of the Harbour’
During the pandemic in 2022, with more free time, Wong said he was determined to finish his plan to document the 1,800 locations he had discovered around the Harbour.
Wong was passionate about fishing, to the extent that he even skipped school to fish all night in Manly. Credit: SBS
‘Here, only my footprints exist’
He said each fishing spot had its charm. He recalled one of the hidden fishing spots.
I discovered a new world, untouched by anyone else. I was the first to go there, and the level of excitement was indescribable.
Bryant Wong
After visiting each fishing spot, Wong said he would record his journey on a map on his phone, marking the spot with a heart emoji.
Wong said fishing in Sydney was easy because there was abundant fish and multiple locations Credit: SBS
“I don’t usually share these secluded fishing spots; I want to preserve the dedication and uniqueness of being the only one to visit,” he said.
“If these places are discovered and become popular fishing spots, it could potentially disrupt the peaceful environment … You can’t guarantee that everyone will have a sense of public responsibility. I don’t want to pollute these places.”
‘Fishing is very hard to fail at unless you’re unlucky’
One of Wong’s fishing companions shows off a record catch. Credit: Bryant Wong
Sharing the joy of fishing
In 2017, he said he decided to start sharing his know-how and local knowledge with senior members of the Chinese community.
Fishing with the elderly allows me to fulfill their wishes and contribute to society in my own way.
Bryant Wong
He said he believed fishing was suitable for all ages, and it could also cultivate qualities such as perseverance, making it a good activity for seniors.
Wong on a fishing trip with senior members of his community. Credit: Bryant Wong
“Fishing requires a lot of perseverance. You have to get up around 5.30am in the morning to set out, and you also need to prepare a lot of equipment,” he said.
During the fishing process, he teaches fishing techniques and takes videos for post-fishing review and exchange. Afterwards, the participants can better grasp the techniques and gradually explore more hard-to-reach fishing spots.
Seeing the excitement of the elderly when they catch their first fish … the happiness in their eyes. When you see them happy, you’ll be happy, and you’ll be more than willing to continue (teaching them to fish).
Bryant Wong
“Sometimes, I give the fish to my employees to take home and share with their families.”
Wong says he enjoys seeing the smiles on the faces of the senior members of his community during fishing trips. Credit: Bryant Wong
Safety comes first
Tsang has been learning to fish with Bryant Wong for the past three years. Credit: SBS
‘Novices learning fishing need experienced guides’
Instead, he said he easily taught new fishing methods to participants such as “rock fishing”, where, with proper preparation and bait placement, fish would continuously bite.
As times change, fish are actually becoming smarter. Fish evolve, and so must humans.
Bryant Wong
“Fish’s lateral lines can sense vibrations from 50-100 metres away. Subtle sounds and light can also have an impact,” he said.
Wong emphasised the importance of having a mentor to guide beginners. Credit: SBS
‘Stubbornness has driven me through 24 years’
“I believe it’s the passion that comes after perseverance. Because, like everyone else, I used to struggle to catch fish. How could I love it then? It’s only after mastering the skills and experiencing success that I started to enjoy it more and more, even to the point of becoming deeply immersed in it.”
Wong visited the SBS Sydney studio to be interviewed. Credit: SBS
Now, I feel like there’s nothing I can’t do.
Bryant Wong
Alex Thompson
It’s inspiring to see Bryant Wong generously sharing his wealth of fishing knowledge with the senior members of the Chinese community. His passion for fishing and dedication to teaching others is truly commendable.
Could you please provide more details on the specific fishing techniques Bryant Wong teaches to the senior members of the Chinese community?