In March, on the coast of Cua Lo, many tourists and locals gathered to "hunt" for early-season squid. From the livelihood activities of fishermen, this experience has become a highlight attracting tourists every year.
Along the sidewalk of the road leading to Lan Chau island (Cua Lo ward, Nghe An province), many people are selling fresh squid just caught from the sea. There are no fixed stalls, each person chooses a position, holding a flashlight to shine on the squid for customers to easily choose.
Although it is a weekday, trading activities are still bustling, attracting a large number of people and tourists to hunt for early-season specialties.
The special point is that squid is not sold by weight but is calculated in "bunches". Prices are not fixed, buyers and sellers agree on their own, creating a friendly and joyful atmosphere. According to local people, the price of squid ranges from 80,000 - 100,000 VND per bundle, depending on the time.
Ms. Kieu Loan (resident in Cua Lo ward) said that she has been attached to the profession for nearly 15 years: "Every day, fishermen roam basket boats to the sea to catch squid from about 5 pm. On stormy days, the output is small, normally also from 5 taels to 1 kg". The income per night ranges from 800,000 VND to 1 million VND.
The squid market usually starts from 7 pm to about midnight, sometimes lasting until 1 am. Many people are excited to "hunt" for fresh and delicious squid.
Ms. Nhu Quynh (Truong Vinh ward, Nghe An province) shared: "Even though it's mid-week, I still take advantage of going down to buy Cua Lo squid, the squid is very fresh, the price is both buying and selling conveniently.
According to the leader of Cua Lo Ward People's Committee, the squid market was planned from mid-2023, and has now become a tourist highlight of the locality. The market not only serves trading but also attracts tourists to experience and enjoy on the spot.
The bustling activities of "hunting" squid contribute to enriching Cua Lo tourism products, while creating additional income for local people.
