The campaign's viral success — sparking hashtags on Sina Weibo like "Hunan park hires 100 seniors to fish" — has also spurred discussions on replicating such "healing jobs" nationwide.

Despite capping work at four hours daily for safety, the project's appeal proved overwhelming and applications flooded in from across the country.

On March 29, the first cohort of nearly 60 silver-haired "Jiang Ziya" officially cast their lines along the scenic riverbanks, blending historical storytelling with immersive tourism. Dressed in traditional attire, these retirees showcased varied styles: some focused intently on their rods, others napped under bamboo hats and a few snacked on sunflower seeds while teaching tourists to fish.

Their catch? Not just fish — which they are allowed to take home — but also daily wages paid immediately after their shifts.

"I've fished along this river for years. Now I get paid for it!" said 71-year-old Hu Mengchu, a local selected for the role play.

Hu said that he was very happy to get the job as he can make some money from his long-time hobby.