Winter 2024
ADDING LARGEMOUTH BASS
Fifty-years ago, a new species of fish was introduced to the lake that would completely transform the region’s recreational past-time and local economy. The introduction of the largemouth bass has caused great controversy due to its invasive and “strong” presence in the lake but has undeniably made a huge economy impact due to the world- class lure builders which now call Shiga home.
Thousands of people came out to show their support and meet with some of Japan’s top freshwater fishing brands.
JDM SHOWS OUT
Local brands from Shiga included; HIDEUP Co. Ltd., DRT, Jackall, and Studio Composite with nearby DEPS and Madness making an appearance from just over the mountains in Kyoto.
On display was an intriguing bowl of “Cover Scat ramen” by DEPS. Yes, even the local ramen chains enjoy pushing the limits of innovation when it comes to bass fishing lures in Japan!
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However, the sport of bass fishing is a touchy subject in this region. Over the last decade, there has been a distinct divide amongst citizens on the impact of this non-native fish and those who enjoy fishing for them as a recreational activity.
On September 23, the “Mother Lake Attraction” was held at a public shopping area in Otsu City as an attempt to bring the community together in a positive cooperation with local officials and the recreational fishing community.
The purpose of this activity Mori said, was to ‘liven up’ Shiga through fishing and the prefecture’s signature feature Lake Biwa.
“By emphasizing the charm of fishing through education to children and conveying the economic benefits to the region, we can be grateful of the Mother Lake”.
Japan’s unique and innovative lures always open eyeballs and HIDEUP had a lineup of some interesting soft plastics.
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