Phnom penh: As the morning mist lifted over the ancient plains of Prasat Bakong, a quiet lake became a chaotic, splashing theater of tradition. Armed with bamboo scoop nets and hand-woven traps, hundreds of villagers waded into the waist-deep waters of Bangkong village on Saturday, marking a post-harvest ritual that is rapidly transforming from a local custom into a major cultural spectacle.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, this isn't just about the catch; it's about the "Leung Meak." Each year, after the final rice stalks are gathered, the community opens its protected conservation lake for a single day of communal fishing. The bounty serves a sacred purpose: feeding monks and honoring Neak Ta (guardian spirits) during traditional merit-making ceremonies.

While many traditional practices face the threat of modernisation, this event is bucking the trend. Local officials reported that participation this year didn't just meet expectations-it shattered them. District Governor So Platong noted a significant spike in crowds, including a growing number of foreign tourists eager to witness the "authentic Cambodia."

Despite the crowd, the fish were biting. "Catches are strong thanks to restocking efforts and effective protection," the Governor remarked, highlighting a rare balance between ancient ritual and modern conservation. For the participants, the experience is a mix of spiritual duty and competitive sport. The rules are strict: only traditional Khmer gear-scoop nets (Chneang), traps (Angrut), and cast nets-is allowed.

"I caught about five kilogrammes today," said Mr. Hok Sen, a Siem Reap local who braved the early morning chill. "It's better than last year, even with all these people in the water." Not everyone shared his luck. Villager Leung Pich saw his haul drop to two kilogrammes, a dip he playfully blamed on the sheer density of nets in the water. "More people means faster fish," he joked.

The event is strategically organised to ensure no one goes hungry. The lake is divided into two zones: Individual Harvest, where families catch fish for their own tables and to host visiting relatives, and Sacred Harvest, a protected section opened later in the morning specifically for the communal "Nom Banh Chok" (traditional rice noodles) served to Buddhist monks.