During the winter season, when the river water recedes, green moss tends to appear on the surface. This is particularly noticeable in the Damodar River in West Bengal. For many fishermen, daily fishing is their primary source of income, and they employ a variety of techniques, either alone or in groups. When fishing in a group, they typically pool their catch, which is sold as a single unit and divided equally among the fishermen.
From a highway bridge overlooking the river, I documented several groups of fishermen using big square nets to catch fish in bulk. They also used different kinds of nets, which they lowered into the water and used as a filter process to capture fish. As the water recedes, the fishermen employ various methods for spreading their nets and catching fish. For example, they use big round nets, which they throw into a specific area to capture fish from that spot. Children are also active during this season, using fishing poles to catch fish in areas where there is less water. This is another way of fishing that is common in rural Bengal.
When the fishermen pull their nets out of the water, it can appear mysterious from a height, as if they are pulling something out of the earth's core. Meanwhile, children who spot movement in the water rush to the specific spot and try to catch the fish for themselves.
Sometimes the fishermen take a break from their activities to rest under the shade of the bridge, as fishing can be exhausting work. To navigate the shallow water, they use large cloths that catch the wind and propel them forward. This method allows them to reach a specific spot quickly.
In the early morning, lone fishermen can also be seen trying to catch fish from the mossy river. Their solitary efforts add to the peaceful ambiance of the winter season.
Overall, the fishing culture in this region is unique and fascinating to observe. It is a testament to the resourcefulness of the local people who have found ways to make a living from the natural resources in their environment.
Group Fishing: One common technique is using big square nets to catch fish in bulk. They also use different kinds of nets, filtering the water to catch fish.
They also used different kinds of small nets which they pour into water and catch fish as a filter process.
The unique fishing culture in this region is a testament to the resourcefulness of the local people who have found ways to make a living from the natural resources in their environment.
Spreading Nets: As the water recedes, the fishermen use various methods for spreading their nets and catching fish, including big round nets and fishing poles.
Kids during this season also are active using fishing polos to capture fish in less amount of water from a specific spot. This is another way of fishing being used in rural Bengal.
Catching Fish: When pulling the nets from the water, it appears mysterious from a height, as if they are pulling something out of the earth's core. Children often rush to spots where they spot movement to catch fish.
Children are also active during this season, using fishing poles to catch fish in areas where there is less water.
Resting Under the Bridge: Fishing can be exhausting, and sometimes the fishermen rest under the bridge's shade.
Navigation: To navigate the shallow water, fishermen use large cloths that catch the wind, allowing them to reach a specific spot quickly.
Lone fishermen can also be seen trying to catch fish from the mossy river in the early morning.
Observing the fishing culture in this region is fascinating, highlighting how people can use their environment to make a living.