Stilt Fishing
Stilt Fishing is a traditional and fascinating fishing technique in Sri Lanka that emerged after World War II. This method of fishing was widely practised along the coast until the tsunami in 2004 caused a temporary halt to the activity. However, in recent years, stilt fishing has made a comeback and can now be observed along the southern coast in towns such as Koggala, Kaththaluwa, and Ahangama, as well as occasionally in the waters of Madu River.
While stilt fishermen make the practice appear effortless, it requires a great deal of skill and balance. A vertical pole with a crossbar attached is driven into the sea floor, either in the shallows or on a riverbed. The crossbar allows the fishermen to sit a few meters above the water, creating minimal shadows and disturbance among the sea life. From this precarious position, stilt fishermen use a rod to catch spotted herrings and small mackerels from the shallows of the sea or river. They then store their catch in a bag tied to the pol...
While stilt fishermen make the practice appear effortless, it requires a great deal of skill and balance. A vertical pole with a crossbar attached is driven into the sea floor, either in the shallows or on a riverbed. The crossbar allows the fishermen to sit a few meters above the water, creating minimal shadows and disturbance among the sea life. From this precarious position, stilt fishermen use a rod to catch spotted herrings and small mackerels from the shallows of the sea or river. They then store their catch in a bag tied to the pol...
