IN THE aftermath of the October 2005 flooding of Moneague, there were several reports of persons being drowned in the waters.

But the source of tragedy also became an attraction, with persons travelling from as far as Spanish Town to see nature's wrath. Some said then that it reminded them of the flooding in New Market, St Elizabeth, several years ago.

Another element of interest was the emergence of vendors at the waterside. With persons coming in droves, the entrepreneurial spirit spawned a boom in the peddling of wares.

The years have passed and most of those activities have subsided. However, a new pastime has emerged - fishing.

"Bwoy, mi jus' love di fun o' it," said Courtney, who journeyed nearly 20 miles from Bog Walk, St Catherine, to the St Ann community just to fish. And it was his lucky day, it seemed. He caught several pounds of fish, including crayfish which is a choice soup delicacy.

There are reports, too, that several persons have been earning a supplemental income from catching and selling the fish in the 'lake'.

One person suggested that the Government use the opportunity to create a fishing village, thus affording persons a steadier means of income.

"It is a fun thing now but it could become a serious income earner for persons, especially those living in the community. Fish could be bred in the water and when they mature, the fishing season could start. It's that simple," he suggested.

- Carl Gilchrist