On Saturday, a solemn lake-worshipping ritual was held to raise the curtain on the county's fifth winter fishing festival.

Visitors can also have fun with various ice and snow activities, such as riding snowmobiles, sledging and skating.

The event has attracted more than 80,000 tourists and achieved a comprehensive tourism income in excess of 20 million yuan ($3.15 million). The first fish caught at the start of the festival, weighing 18 kilograms, was put up for auction and fetched 418,888 yuan.

Zhang Haijiang, a veteran fisherman who grew up in Fuhai county, says that Ulungur Lake is like a treasure trove for local fishermen.

"We should dig deep into the local culture and better pass down our traditions," he says, adding that the winter fishing festival helps to add another sparkle to the county's winter allure.