In July 2023, Chage visited river fishermen in the Shikoku region of Kochi Prefecture to experience natural eel fishing along the Shimanto River.
There, a fishing method involving a cylindrical trap known as "Colobashi" is employed to catch eels, and in this video (〜Setting Phase〜 / Part 1), Chage participated in the process of setting up these traps.
The Shimanto River is renowned as one of Japan's three great clear streams, known for its natural beauty and pristine waters. For local river fishermen and residents, it holds immense historical and cultural significance.
However, Mr. Kurosawa, who works daily as a river fisherman there, has noticed significant changes in the river's condition compared to the past.
Behind these changes lies not only global warming but also the sediment runoff caused by human activities such as deforestation in the upstream mountains. The downstream impacts of this phenomenon are immeasurable and are affecting the ecosystem of the Shimanto River.
Although eels raised in the clear waters of the Shimanto River are still highly regarded for their top-notch quality, the fishermen are acutely aware of the environmental shifts that have triggered a crisis for the river's present and future.
Through this eel fishing experience, Chage had the opportunity to listen to the stories of the river fishermen who reside there. This exposure underscored the importance of coexistence between nature and humanity, further deepening his concern for environmental issues.
It is hoped that this video will serve as a catalyst for viewers to contemplate and understand how we should be conscious of and take action in response to the changing natural environment.