Fish
Conger myriaster ・ Congridae (Congers and Garden Eels)
It comes out of the mud as the sun goes down. The season in sheltered harbours runs from early summer into autumn, and the fish drop into deeper water as the sea cools. The fishing is concentrated in the two hours after sunset.
A scatter of white dots runs along and above the lateral line, resembling the marks on a ruler — hence the nickname hakarime, "measuring eye." Unlike the freshwater eel, its upper jaw projects beyond the lower, and its eyes are large. It hides in burrows in sandy mud by day and hunts small fish and crustaceans at night. A staple of Tokyo-style tempura and sushi.
Strictly nocturnal. In Tokyo Bay the night conger boats from mid-April to July are a seasonal fixture, tapping a sinker on the bottom under the hull or casting short. It is also caught after dark from breakwaters.
Arrive half an hour before sunset and tie everything while you can still see. Use one fat sea worm on the hook, cast, tighten the line and rest the rod. When the tip light starts twitching, count three before you strike.
Areas: Tokyo Bay
Waters: Northern Pacific coast, Southern Pacific coast, Seto Inland Sea, East China Sea & western Kyushu
Set two rods and fan the casts. A plain running sinker of ten to fifteen go is enough, baited with a bunch of worms or a strip of saury. Leave a little slack rather than winding up tight, and do not move the rig while the scent does its work.
Waters: Northern Pacific coast, Southern Pacific coast, Seto Inland Sea, East China Sea & western Kyushu
Chonage starter kit ・ Kit total ¥11,000–24,000
A compact rod travels by train. Jarime is the easiest bait to handle.
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This fish is dangerous to handle bare-handed.
Sharp teeth
Its jaws are lined with fine teeth and the body writhes constantly, so a bare hand cannot hold it. The slime makes it slip: pin it with a wet towel or a fish grip and unhook it with pliers.
Dangerous fish and animals — what to do when you are stung or bitten
Tempura, simmered, or grilled plain. The blood carries a toxin that heat destroys, so it is not eaten raw; wash your hands, your tools and any splashes near your eyes after cleaning one.
Best eating: June–August
Many harbours are closed to entry or parking after dark. On top of the prefectural rules, always read the harbour operator's signage.
Etiquette at the water — how a spot stays open
This article organises general information and is not legal advice. Rules differ by municipality and by fishery cooperative, and they change. Always check the current rules for where you are going.
Seasons, sizes and eating quality are general guides. Rules change, so check the latest prefectural, fishery-cooperative and site rules before fishing. This app provides general information, not legal advice.