Two fishermen haul a harvest of fresh fish from the riverbank. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

The Qiantang River fishing ban ended on July 1, allowing fishermen to resume their activities in the Qiantang River in Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang province.

The decision came after a four-month closure that was implemented to ensure the sustainability of fish stocks, promoting fish growth and spawning in the river.

Fishermen set off earlier in the morning to cast their nets. While the annual fishing season is always a festive occasion, this year stands out for its use of cutting-edge technology such as drones.

In Jiubao subdistrict of Shangcheng district, excited crowds gathered on the riverbank, where a drone swiftly carried freshly caught fish, reaching a nearby restaurant in just three minutes.

"The fish tails were still flapping! From the river to the table, it takes only half an hour. This freshness is unparallel!" said the restaurant owner who gave his surname as Li.

In addition to the drone deliveries, the event featured auctions of fish that were carried by robot dogs and a fashion show incorporating design elements of fishing nets.

This fishing season, centered around fresh river catches, the local folks are transforming the traditional fishing event into a vibrant display of Jiubao's vitality and a practical demonstration of shared prosperity.

A drone is used to carry fish to a waiting restaurant. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]