Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, July 31: Following the two-month annual monsoon fishing ban that began on June 1, the 2025 fishing season will commence on August 1 in Karnataka’s coastal region.
While trawl boats may begin fishing based on weather conditions, purse seine boat owners have decided to start fishing only after the traditional sea worship on August 9.
Representational image
Favourable weather returns
Despite heavy rains and strong winds until mid-July, sunny weather over the last two days has made fishing viable. Migrant workers who had returned to their hometowns during the break are now coming back, and preparations are underway at fishing harbours to ready both trawl and purse seine boats.
Previous season affected by poor catch
Unusual weather patterns since February and intense summer heat led to a significant drop in fish catch in the previous season, leaving fishermen in distress. This time, in anticipation of a better season, fishermen have begun pre-launch work such as painting, engine repairs, net maintenance, and acquiring diesel.
Traditional fishing weakened
Though non-mechanised traditional boat fishing usually picks up during the monsoon ban, it too witnessed a slump this year due to adverse weather conditions.
Fish inflow from other states
With fresh local catch in short supply, markets are depending on fish transported in ice packs from Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Odisha. The price of fish has also fluctuated, affecting consumers.
Decline in fish catch
Between August 2024 and March 2025, the region saw a sharp decline in fish catch. According to the fisheries department, 7,100 metric tonnes of fish were harvested in April 2025, which fell to 6,210 metric tonnes in May. The total catch stood at 2.39 lakh tonnes in 2023-24, while in 2024-25 it was only 1.72 lakh tonnes.
Port works pose challenge
Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, Mangaluru fishing harbour is undergoing its third phase of development at a cost of Rs 37.5 crore. Demolition of the old auction shed is complete and road repairs are ongoing, which may create disruptions when the fishing resumes.
Fishing will officially begin on August 1 as per government notification. Trawl boats will venture out depending on weather forecasts that day, while purse seine boats are expected to resume fishing after August 10, following the sea worship ceremony, said fish entrepreneur Mohan Bengre.