Villagers gather along the Truong River, carrying stones to build a dam across the stream for fishing. (Photo: VNA)
Villagers gather along the Truong River, carrying stones to build a dam across the stream for fishing. (Photo: VNA)
Local residents transport stones to block the water flow as part of the ritual. (Photo: VNA)
Local residents transport stones to block the water flow as part of the ritual. (Photo: VNA)
People work together to complete the temporary dam before catching fish. (Photo: VNA)
People work together to complete the temporary dam before catching fish. (Photo: VNA)
Participants rejoice after securing a plentiful catch. (Photo: VNA)
Participants rejoice after securing a plentiful catch. (Photo: VNA)
Those taking part in the ritual prepare a variety of dishes from the freshly caught fish. (Photo: VNA)
Those taking part in the ritual prepare a variety of dishes from the freshly caught fish. (Photo: VNA)
0
1
2
3
4

Co people in Quang Ngai highland commune revive stream fishing ritual

During the Lunar New Year 2026, residents of Thanh Bong, a highland commune in Quang Ngai province, revived the traditional stream fishing ritual of the Co ethnic group on an unprecedented scale. Known locally as Hoi P’hiet Xol, the custom involves building a temporary dam across a stream to catch fish, symbolising the cleansing of past misfortunes and prayers for favourable weather, abundant harvests and a prosperous, harmonious year ahead.