Shrimping in Ho Chi Minh City. A highlight not to be missed in Ho Choi Minh City

Shrimping in Ho Chi Minh City.

A highlight of my last visit to Ho Chi Minh City was city fishing or “Shrimping” as the locals call it. It was one of the most entertaining adventures I have had in Vietnam over the past 4 years. First impressions can be misleading; walking in I thought it was swimming hall that fell on hard times.I soon realized it was a community asset and innovative economic enterprises. 

 

 

 

This hidden gem served as a family adventure land, local meeting place for the elderly, lunch and dinner spot for working professionals, and a place to catch shrimp. I saw an office birthday party, a business luncheon, four old men doing more talking and smoking than fishing, a woman singing while waiting for the shrimp to bite, a passel of kids having a great time and several serious fishermen and women.

 

 

 

You pick a spot and pull up a chair; the enthusiastic employees bring a pole to get you started. They keep the hook baited, take care of your catch and bring you food and drinks. The service was attentive, beer was cold and the local cuisine was great.

 

Over the course of the afternoon and several beverages I realized fishing hole was a cross between a “Cheers” bar, civic center and diner. The pictures didn’t do it justice, you need to experience the noise, the vibe, adrenaline rush when a shrimp strikes your line, and the feeling of community to get the true spirit of shrimping in Ho Chi Minh City. At the end of the visit, the staff bag your catch and you bring it home for dinner. In the cab on the way back to my hotel I keeping thinking the Beverly Hillbillies had it right; head to the cement pond, pull up a chair, kick off your shoes and sit a spell. It was a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend an afternoon and catch your dinner while you're at it.