By Joey Aguilar/Staff Reporter
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Crabbing has for long been the most exciting family activity for many overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Qatar.
One such OFW is Boy Deluz from Marinduque province in the Philippines, who believes that catching crabs - as well as fish and squids - is great fun in this country.
Deluz and his family, together with friends and colleagues, visit the country’s popular beaches at least twice a week - especially during the start of the winter, which is the best time to catch crabs. During the summer, crabs tend to stay away from the shore and go deeper into the sand.
The experience does not end with the act of catching crabs at places like Al Khor and Al Wakrah. It also involves a well-cooked meal, coffee or tea sessions and a dip in the water. A good catch, weighing about 7-15kg, goes a long way to satisfy their craving for some good seafood.
“It gives many Filipinos and even other expatriate workers in Qatar a break from their busy lives,” said Deluz, who came to Doha in 1991 when there were only about 22,000 OFWs. The figure could reach about 300,000 this year, according to Philippine labour officials.
However, the 55 year-old crabbing expert lamented that the catch was dwindling. Earlier, his group would often catch crabs weighing as much as 20kg. However, as the expatriate population of Qatar grew steadily, the catch started reducing. “Many people are involved in crabbing and there are some who catch crabs even when they are young and small,” he stressed.
In a bid to save the young crustaceans, the authorities have banned crabbing on several beaches during the breeding season. Crabbing, including fishing, is also prohibited in places like the Corniche.
Despite the challenges, Deluz feels that this activity - which provides thrill and excitement to every member of the family - remains a favourite pastime of many OFWs. He also believes that nature will find a way to increase the crab population someday and “we will catch more crabs again”.
Without the right skills, a novice may find it hard to catch even a single crab, said Deluz, a crabber in Qatar for 21 years.
He readies his gloves, underwater flashlight, rechargeable lamps, goggles, diving shoes and other equipment a day before going to the beach. “We also do crabbing in Saudi Arabia,” he added.
Deluz said timing was also important. “We don’t do it during full moon; it is difficult to deal with them as they move very fast. We go there when it is really dark.”
At least 10 more families join his group, set up tents and stay on the beach until morning. Some do snorkelling while the others cook for the entire group. Then, a sumptuous dinner follows in the open. “Besides the great food, it also helps lower stress. We simply enjoy going to the beach,” said Deluz.