Srinagar, July 16 -- As the first ray of the sun touches the earth, a quiet buzz fills the air near Lidder River in Pahalgam. Wading knee-deep into the glacial waters, 24-year-old Zahid Ahmad adjusts his fishing rod, eyes locked on the shimmering surface. A slight tug, a quick flick of the wrist - and moments later, a brown trout breaks the water, wriggling on the line.

Cheers erupt from a small group of fellow anglers nearby, some already holding up their day's catches for photographs. The scene is increasingly common across Kashmir, where angling has rapidly evolved from a niche pastime into a booming recreational sport.

"Fishing is no longer just a weekend escape. It's a way to connect with nature, challenge yourself - and yes, win a...