The boats long ago relocated to Bali Hai, but the area where Pattaya’s old pier once stood, these days is home to just fishermen, some of who eschew the beach and marine sports for a relaxing day of angling with the family.
The Weerachai family was enjoying a day of fishing in early February, casting their lines while picnicking on the beach.
Father Weerachai said he’ll often come down to the beach after work and still gets a thrill when fish take the bait. It also helps him train his concentration, he said.
The entire family turns out for a day of fishing at the site where the old Pattaya pier once stood.
Recreational fishermen like Weerachai are hardly putting a dent in the marine environment. Chaowalit Praditthaprik, head of Pattaya’s Natural Resources Department, said hook-and-line anglers target either small or big fish and aren’t catching everything, the way commercial nets do.
Maj. Col. Jeerawat Sukhonzup, chief of Pattaya’s municipal enforcement officers, said city regulations don’t prohibit recreational fishing at the old pier site, only commercial ventures.
He said officers do keep a close eye on the area, watching for large groups who may create a nuisance or drink too much and start fights.
