Sea Foraging Days (Brgy. Plaridel, Palompon, Leyte, Philippines)

We went sea foraging the other day since it is starting to be at that point where low tide happens during the daytime and we could actually forage for seafood. The last time we went we were lucky because we caught a few shells, crabs, and even an octopus. For the first couple of days, the kids went with us, but we could not forage properly since we have to keep an eye on the kids. So on the third time, we asked their grandparents to babysit them. It surely is nice to be able to catch your own food, cook, and eat it fresh. It is the real definition of "from sea to table". 

It was so hot that day on our forage that we could have used a wide-brimmed hat or a native salakot to protect ourselves from the scorching heat of the sun. But, oh well! We got us a good seafood feast after, though. 

Fish Harvesting Season At The Fish Pond

It is that time of year again for fish harvesting season. My aunt owns a fish pond and my father manages the area. Last Friday, we got up really early at around 2:00 o'clock in the morning to get ourselves ready for the harvest. We thought it was going to be an early deal, but as it turned out, it took a long time to get all the water out of the pond so we ended up staying until the afternoon. But nevertheless, it was fun and worth it. We even brought home a few fish to cook for our son's birthday. 

The fish harvesting became sort of like a fiesta in the village. There were a bunch of people that showed up and helped themselves in harvesting whatever fish they can catch. Most of them were relatives though so it was hard to say no to them. 

Some of the fish that were caught were Bangus or Milkfish (Philippines National Fish), Kitong (Samaral), which are very expensive these days, the first-class type of fish. There were also some Mahinlo fish, Pangalwan, Tilapia, and more. 

Had I had my own pair of waders during that harvest, I would be in that water too catching and chasing some fish. That would have been exciting! But, there is always next time, and next time it is.