A Squirrel Fishin’ We Will Go!

Most people prefer fishing for bass, catfish, and trout—but not the Japanese! Ever since 1997, Japanese men, women, and children have been fishing for squirrels as a fun and harmless pastime.

The actual origin of squirrel fishing is currently unknown, although according to Wikipedia, it first made an appearance in the United States on the campus of Harvard University. Regardless, it is now a widely popular activity used by Japanese families and friends alike for pure unadulterated entertainment.

The goal of squirrel fishing is to lift a squirrel into the air using only a fishing pole with a nut tied to a string as bait. The fishing pole can either be a real fishing pole, or simply a long stick tied to a rope. Either way, the pole is cast in front of a hungry squirrel in the hope that he will jump for it and latch on, allowing the fisherman or fisherwoman to raise the furry little critter off the ground and into the air.

Does it sound easy? Think again!

The first step is to launch the baited peanut into a clearing nearby a squirrel and then simply wait. You could try a more direct approach—such as tossing the peanut right into its midst—but you’re likely to scare it away.

As the curious squirrel finally starts to approach the target, you begin to slowly reel in the peanut, forcing the squirrel to run toward it.

If all goes well, the squirrel—in a frantic crack at nourishment—will drive its tiny claws into the nut, giving you the perfect opportunity to pull the sucker straight into the air.

By the way, DO NOT try grabbing a squirrel with your hands. Despite popular belief, squirrels are ferocious fighters unafraid to bite.

For a demonstration of squirrel fishing, take a gander at the quirky video below.

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By V Saxena on 23-02-2010