Over 1,000 fishing vessels set sail on the East China Sea from Shipu fishery port in Xiangshan county on Sept 16. [Photo/CFP]

The 23rd China Fishing Season Festival kicked off in the coastal county of Xiangshan in Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province on Sept 16.

The festival marked the start of a new fishing season, and 1,298 fishing vessels set sail on the East China Sea from Shipu fishery port after a traditional ceremony worshipping the sea goddess.

In 1998, Xiangshan, a county that relies heavily on the fishing industry, launched the festival to highlight its ocean culture and welcome the fishing season. Every year, an array of festive events is held to promote local tourism and fishing resources during the festival.