Kuala Gula, A Paradise for Anglers
Kuala Gula, popular among hardcore anglers, is located in Kuala Kurau, Perak. It is truly an ideal location for anglers in Perak looking for a spot to satisfy their fishing hobby.
The location of Kuala Gula, which is somewhat far from the main road, means many anglers are unaware of this excellent "fishing spot." If you are coming from the North-South Expressway, you need to take the Bukit Merah exit and follow the signs for Kuala Kurau to reach Kuala Gula. Kuala Gula is actually a bird sanctuary, carefully maintained by government departments.
Besides fishing, many tourists come here for a vacation to observe birds like eagles, which are rarely seen up close elsewhere.
There are also floating chalet facilities available for rent for vacationing tourists. These chalets feature decks extending into the estuary, making it easy for anglers to fish while relaxing. Thus, anglers can fish at any time without needing to leave the chalet. Tourists who enjoy birdwatching can clearly see various types of birds flying freely around the estuary, especially eagles that often land to catch fish. In addition to chalets, there is also a floating restaurant in Kuala Gula.
This restaurant offers various types of seafood such as prawns, squid, fish, and more. A special menu that every visitor to Kuala Gula must try is the soft-shell crab. The deliciousness of this soft-shell crab is hard to describe; you have to try it yourself to truly appreciate it. Another must-order dish at this restaurant is the three-flavored sea bass (siakap). The sea bass served is fresh, taken directly from cages kept behind the restaurant. Customers can choose their own fish based on the desired size.
Kuala Gula is the best "fishing spot" because its water currents are perfect for fishing. Based on my own experience fishing in Kuala Gula, the catch is truly amazing. Imagine, in just two days and one night, the catch exceeded a full bucket. This is the experience I want to share with all readers of orangperak.com. The fish seem to be feasting here, especially late at night, around 2 to 4 AM. During those hours, you won't have time to rest because the fish keep biting the bait, thanks to the high tide at that time. The common catches in Kuala Gula are croaker (gelama) and catfish (ikan duri). If you are lucky and use the right bait, you might even hook a sea bass. Bring live shrimp as bait for sea bass. Sea bass are very active during high tide. Between 2 and 4 AM, you can hear them splashing in the current as they hunt for small fish.
Other suitable baits to use here include fresh shellfish to attract croaker and catfish. Besides shellfish, shrimp are also suitable because their fishy scent attracts these fish. You are also advised to bring your own insect repellent like Ridsect, as mosquitoes are abundant here at night. Jackets or thick clothing should also be brought because the weather here is very cold at night. Proper preparation is important to ensure your concentration is not disturbed while fishing.
For freshwater fish enthusiasts, there is an abandoned water reservoir pond in front of the chalets. At first glance, it looks like there is no life in it. I tried leaving my fishing rod there with live shrimp as bait. To my surprise, after half an hour, a catfish the size of an arm was hooked. So, if you enjoy freshwater fishing, Kuala Gula also offers spots for you. However, you are advised to fish in this pond only during the day for safety reasons.
In conclusion, it is not complete for anglers visiting Perak if they do not try their luck in Kuala Gula. The bountiful catch and the satisfaction of fishing seem to beckon every angler to spend their time here. Birdwatching is also a rewarding experience that is hard to find elsewhere. Not only eagles, but you also have the chance to see flocks of egrets, numbering over a hundred, flying in the air. So, if you have never set foot in Kuala Gula, book your vacation here and experience the unparalleled joy of fishing.
