Flying Fish Season is a special cultural and ecological event in eastern Taiwan, especially in Lanyu and the coastal areas of Taitung. It usually happens between March and June every year.

The Tao people of Lanyu, Taiwan, have maintained their unique culture for approximately 800 years, with flying fish serving as a cornerstone of their sustenance and traditions. However, their way of life is now under severe threat.

The tradition comes from ancient legends and ceremonies. According to legend, the Tao people (also known as the Yami) once cooked flying fish with other seafood, which made them sick—and even made the flying fish sick. Later, the King of the Black-winged Flying Fish appeared in a dream to an elder and taught him the proper ways to catch, prepare, and cook flying fish. The spirit also explained important taboos and rituals to prevent sickness in the future.

This image depicts a cultural event where a group of men are ceremonially carrying a traditional red and white boat into the sea. The distinct boat design and coastal setting with mountains suggest an indigenous or local community celebration


The local indigenous people, especially the Tao of Lanyu, developed this tradition based on the natural migration of flying fish. Their way of life and culture are closely connected to this seasonal pattern.


One method is called ”night light fishing,“ where torches or lights are used at night to attract the fish to the surface. Once the fish gather near the light, fishermen use nets or spears to catch them quickly. This is usually done on moonless nights to avoid interference from moonlight. Other traditional methods include spear fishing and setting fixed nets.


Important ceremonies are held, such as the ”Boat Launching Ceremony“ and the ”Flying Fish Festival.“ These are meant to show respect to the spirits and to pray for blessings. During fishing season, many rules must be followed to honor nature and the sea.

• Women are not allowed to participate in fishing or get close to the traditional wooden canoes (tatala).
• Flying fish should only be caught during the flying fish season.
• The caught fish must be shared based on age and social status, respecting elders first.