Family Fun on the Beach on Aikawa in the West side of the Island

"In the morning, you can enjoy the scenery of the ocean from a ocean kayak, then go snorkeling and watch what lies under the sea in the afternoon. Evening is the perfect time to go fishing from the embankment. Most kids really get into fishing. Embankments around Aikawa are safe and easy places to fish. From July to August at dawn and dusk, you can catch Aji (horse mackerel) and other fish almost as soon as you drop the line into the water."

If catching fish is as easy as that, adults can also get into it, too! Though there are many great fishing areas, and Mr. Matsumura's favorite spot is Kabuse Harbor. You can fish for Mejina (opaleye), Mebaru (rock cod), Suzumedai (reeffish), and Umazurahagi (black scraper.) Horse mackerel are around from July to October. "Take your catch back to your inn and have them cook the fish for you. There might be a small charge, but deep fried, fresh-caught Aji is out of this world!"

If you're too unorganized to bring your own equipment, you can rent fishing gear at "Tomishin" in Haneda shopping area in Aikawa. Overnight fishing pole rental set (including bait) costs 1,500 yen. They also sell masks and water glasses, fish spears, and fishnets for those who really want to get serious about catching a fish or two. "You also need a bucket. And shoes. You can wear sneakers, but water shoes are best. I would also advise getting leather (or simulated leather) gloves so that you don't hurt your hands on rocks and shells," Mr. Matsumura added.

In Senjojiki, where one can try ocean kayaking, there are areas where you might run into schools of rock cod. With a pavilion and running water on the beach, you can have a barbeque if you bring the grille. Foodstuff can be bought on the nearby shopping street, and fresh local seafood can be had at amazing bargain prices. And don't forget to take all the trash and gear home with you after you've enjoyed your meal. Mr. Matsumura continues, "You can find beautiful rocks on the beach and draw with it; you can catch an eel-like fish called Gen'naguro with dried squid... Sado's ocean and beach are full of fun things to do."

After all the seaside fun, relax and enjoy the sunset. Sunset times are posted at some of the inns. You can see nighttime creatures in the ocean if you light the shallow water with a flashlight. "You can look up at the stars as you feel the summer breeze, and the magical lights on the ocean from the fishing boats will transport you to another dimension."

Horse mackerel caught at Kabuse Harbor. Horse mackerel can be caught even along the embankment in July and August.

Rental rods for fishing horse mackerel include bait. The photo shows different kinds of bait for sale.

Tatsuhiko Tomita the owner of Tomishin tackle shop. He gives friendly advice about fishing know-how and gear.