I did not hear that any strange or unknown kinds of fish were ever brought up by the returning waters of the lake. The fish that rise again when the water returns are of the same kinds that had gone down before. These are mostly common fish such as carp, tench, eels, and others that are usually found in lakes of this region Journey Toward the Famous Lake of Zirchnitz.
It is also believed that the fish gain more than they lose by this natural change. Before the water sinks underground, the fish usually spawn. The young fish, or fry, then go down with the water and remain below for several months. During this time, they grow in the underground waters. When the lake fills again, these young fish return larger and stronger, which increases the number of fish in the lake rather than reducing it. This makes the lake very rich in fish and useful for the people who live nearby.
Uneven Ground Beneath the Water
The ground under the lake is very uneven, and the depth of the water is not the same in every place. In some parts, the water may be only about four feet deep, while in other places it suddenly becomes extremely deep, even reaching depths of twenty yards. This uneven shape creates valleys and higher parts beneath the lake Private Turkey Tour Guide.
The fish prefer to gather in the deeper valleys rather than in the shallow or higher places. Because of this, the fishermen pay close attention to these deeper parts, as they are the best places for catching fish. The local fishermen know the lake very well, both when it is full of water and when it is dry. Through long experience, they have learned the shape of the land beneath the water.
Named Valleys of the Lake
The fishermen have given special names to seven of the main valleys under the lake. These names come from the Slavonic language spoken in that country. The valleys are known as Vitlmas, Reshetu, Sitarza, Rikissikiama, Naknishte, Levishe, and Kottel.
These names help the fishermen describe the best fishing places and understand the changing nature of the lake. Since the lake disappears and returns each year, such knowledge is very important for their work and survival.
The Fisher’s Stone and Signs of the Water’s Change
During my visit, I passed over the first five of the valleys that were mentioned by the fishermen. I also went to see a well-known stone called the Fisher’s Stone. The people of the region use the appearance of this stone as a sign to guess how soon the water of the lake will begin to descend. When the water level changes and the stone becomes more visible, they expect the lake to dry soon.
I also observed a hill near the lake which, when the water is high, becomes a pleasant island. This island adds beauty to the lake and shows clearly how much the water level can change during the year. After observing these places carefully, I returned from my exploration.
The Regular Rising and Falling of the Lake
The inhabitants of the region cannot recall any year in which the lake has failed to descend and rise again. There is no clear tradition among them about when this strange property of the lake was first noticed. It seems to have continued in the same manner for as long as anyone can remember.
Some lakes in the world are known to have been formed by earthquakes or sudden natural events. However, it appears more probable that this lake has had its special nature since very ancient times. According to the best guesses of learned men, this lake may even be the great marsh or lake mentioned by the ancient geographer Strabo.
It is therefore very surprising that the ancient writers did not describe this remarkable behaviour more clearly, since the yearly disappearance and return of the water is one of the most curious natural phenomena in Europe.
