Past midnight, beneath the glow of the new moon during low tide, I joined the Martinez family for sulo', an ancient CHamoru fishing tradition. Sulo' involves night fishing using a hachon (torch) and fisga (spear).

Traditionally, the hachon is crafted from coconut tree parts, and the fisga is made of wood, with spear tips fashioned from wood or bone. In modern times, headlamps and flashlights accompany a metal multi-tip spear. After preparing tools and discussing a plan with safety measures, the group ventures into the water at night, side by side, silently navigating the reef to avoid disturbing sea life.

I was curious and asked, "How do you spot a fish?" They explained, "It's the sparkle from a fish's eye," an age-old technique used by fishermen. It's a captivating scene as the family collaborates, sharing stories and fishing wisdom. A family member emphasized, "Sulo' unites our family, and the essence lies in fishing for our family and community, and not for commercial gain."