Xu Binli, an expert fisherman in Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, is busy making a rubbing of a fish. [Photo/zhoushan.cn]

Xu Binli, an expert fisherman in Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, has been using his influence in fishing circles to promote the city's marine culture, especially through fish rubbing, local media reported recently.

Fish rubbing grew out of gravestone rubbing in the Song Dynasty (420-479). The image of a fish is produced by placing a piece of paper over the fish and rubbing it with chalk or a pencil. It was originally used to record the results of fishing competitions.

"Many who like to fish will take a photo of their catches," said Xu, "I prefer to make rubbings of my catches."

In order to polish his fish rubbing skills, Xu learned from Li Shixin, known as the godfather of fish rubbing in China and the creator of fish rubbing theories.

Under Li's guidance, Xu quickly improved his skills.

Layer upon layer of fish rubbings made by Xu can be found in his office, and there is a story behind each and every one of them.

"I have countless unforgettable memories related to my fish rubbing," noted Xu, "One of my fondest memories is being employed as the honorary chairman of the China Macao Outdoor Recreational Sports Association."

Fish rubbings from Zhoushan are becoming more and more popular in Macao and Hong Kong, added Xu.

Xu has made several proposals as a member of the CPPCC Zhoushan municipal committee and deputy to the Putuo district people's congress to promote fish rubbing.

In recent years, Xu has been teaching fish rubbing in local schools and communities and has organized several training sessions free of charge.

Last year, with the support of the Putuo district government, he also organized a fish rubbing competition, which attracted experienced fish rubbers from around China.

Xu plans to make a rubbing of all the fish species in Zhoushan on a piece of rice paper to encourage people to learn more about them.

Xu shows off one of his fish rubbings. [Photo/zhoushan.cn]