Silvester D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network – Malyadi
Kundapur, Jun 13: As the monsoon rains commence, rural areas witness the onset of agricultural activities on one hand and fishing expeditions on the other. With fields, ponds, and lakes brimming with water due to the rains, fish from other areas migrate, leading to abundant catches. On Wednesday, local residents of Tekkatte village’s Malyadi region gathered in large numbers at the river and ponds, engaging in fishing activities and celebrating their catch.
With the monsoon season in full swing, fishing has begun in various parts of the taluk. During the time when fish migrate, locals lay their nets in the Malyadi river and surrounding ponds, rejoicing as they catch fish weighing over 5 kg each. Many villagers waded through fields and ponds, tracking and catching fish, reveling in their success. The fishing expedition yielded various types of fish, including Rohu and Catla, some weighing around 5 kg each.
Fishing gear
Old fishing nets and mosquito nets serve as the primary tools for monsoon fishing. Different methods such as casting nets, placing traps, and setting up nets along field borders and streams are employed to catch a variety of fish.
Fishing in fields
Typically, riverbanks, streams, and fields near ponds are hotspots for fishing. Continuous rain causes streams, ponds, and rivers to overflow, filling fields with water, where nets are set up to catch fish.
Massive catch
Teams of around 6 to 7 people managed to catch over 500 kg of Catla fish. Each fish weighed between 5 to 6 kg and, due to their medicinal value, were in high demand, selling for approximately 500 to 600 rupees on the spot.
A joyful tradition
Monsoon fishing not only brings joy but also provides fresh fish. It is a common practice in villages. "We are traditional fishermen, engaging in both sea and river fishing. During the fishing ban, we resort to monsoon fishing. The heavy rains have resulted in a good catch. However, this abundance of fish may not last beyond a few days," said Uday Koravadi, a local fisherman.
Local sentiment
"Every year, we get good fish, but usually, it takes several days after the start of the monsoon. This year, within just four to five days of heavy rains, we are seeing such large groups of fish. This fishing activity attracts not only locals but also people from neighboring villages," remarked Srinivas Malyadi, a local resident.