Hanoi fishers use illegal shock devices to catch fish under Long Bien Bridge

The practice, known locally as 'electric fishing,' is common in the Long Bien District, which borders the Ba Dinh and Hoan Kiem districts in central Hanoi. 

Small motorized boats can be seen congregating near a riverside slope close to the Ngoc Lam food market, where operators use high-powered electric rods to stun and collect fish.

Local residents watching from the bridge have voiced concern that unchecked electric fishing could harm the river's ecosystem and deplete aquatic resources. 

The activity often continues until nightfall, even on days when international tourists visit the area.

The problem worsens during the lunar calendar's first and 15th days, when locals release fish into the river as part of a traditional Buddhist ritual.

Fishers equipped with long poles and electric nets are often seen retrieving the released fish shortly afterward.

Each boat typically carries two people and is fitted with a large-capacity electric shock unit.

Many of the carp caught are believed to have been released into the river by residents participating in the ritual.

Most of the fish caught are reportedly sold to middlemen or directly to restaurants. 

One restaurant manager in Long Bien District, who gave only his given name H., said Red River fish—particularly wild carp—are in high demand.

"Customers love the Red River carp. We can secure orders for any number of tables if we get just half a day's notice," he said.