Zhangjiagang fishing authorities have launched a campaign to prevent knife fish, a precious species at risk of extinction, from being caught in the Zhangjiagang section of the Yangtze River.

Starting from April 20, fishing for knife fish has been forbidden in the river, according to the fishing ban rules of the Yangtze River in spring.

The fish, also known as Coilia ectenes, or daoyu in Chinese, are considered a luxury delicacy for their extremely tender texture and fresh taste. They sell for as high as several thousand yuan per kilo. Though recently prices have dropped due to temperature rises, fishermen still poach the fish for their considerable benefits.

Fishery law enforcement workers in Zhangjiagang not only have delivered messages of the fishing ban in various ways to fishermen, but have also continued to instruct and urge them to abandon nighttime fishing, untie fishing nets and return boats to port for a couple days.

During the next few days during the fishing ban period, authorities will continue to enhance patrols on the river.