Take me Fishing

The villages of Ratnagiri, especially the ones by the begins of happier fishing and boating trips as they have many skilled fishermen. Some of them fish from the shore but most do it from a canoe. Their traditional fishing techniques and amazing skills are a treat to the eyes. Fishing is probably the most important means of livelihood for the villagers of Ratnagiri. It is must know that the serene water ocean in Ratnagiri is teem with an abundant variety of fish. So it is a haven for fishermen and also a wonderful destination for travellers who would like to try their hands on fishing. When you get to the shallow areas of the backwaters, the chances of catching fish are quite high

The local fishermen use a variety of indigenous techniques to catch fish. Each of these techniques is a joy to watch and it can arrest your attention for quite a long time. The most common technique is using nets. A fisherman throws a lot of bait at once, and then casts his net to catch many fish. Casting a net may sound like an easy thing to do but it requires skill to be able to do it in the right way.

There are other techniques too. Angling, for example, is a simple fishing technique where they use a rod, line and hook to catch fish using earthworm/batter as bait. Also famous is Bow Fishing where the fish is shot with an arrow and then reeled in. Another unique method is using a Bamboo Trap. A cone-shaped basket is placed at a narrow area in the backwaters. Fish enter from the large opening but the hole at the other end is too small for the fish to escape. The local fishermen can guide you to enjoy your own fishing experience. They can teach you how to use the traditional fishing rod with a line and hook and some earthworm as bait to catch fish. The chances of catching fish are higher in the shallow areas of the waters.

Fishing certainly requires a measure of patience but if you are able to catch even one or two fish, it is quite a satisfying experience. The picturesque environment at the backwaters and the chirping of birds creates a wonderful atmosphere for a memorable fishing experience. It is an experience you must have at least once in your lifetime. If anyone visit’s Ratnagiri, then one should try to enjoy a fishing experience in the Arabian Sea with a local fishermen, to get in touch, taste and experience the local Konkani cuisine and delegacies