Stilt Fishing in West Bengal
Posted July 29, 2023
Travel & Living
By Shibasish Saha
Stilt Fishing is a traditional style of fishing practiced by local fishermen in Sri Lanka, especially on the southern coast. With a perfect balance and an insurmountable amount of patience, fishermen perch themselves on cross-shaped beams called petta tied to a vertical pole and driven into the sand a few meters offshore and wait for their catch of the day!
The stilt fishermen then use a rod from this precarious position to bring in a good catch of spotted herrings and small mackerels from the comparative shallows of the sea or from the river. They collect the catch in a bag tied to the pole or to their waist.
Here I was shocked to find the same practice in West Bengal, India. I was lucky enough to explore this unique style of fishing.
One may easily spot the fisherman’s near ‘Hijali Sea beach’, East Midanapur. The fishermen’s don’t have any specific time to be spotted. They do their fishing very far away from the crowded sea beach.
Table of Contents
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Photography & Story
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Stilt Fishing Workshop -
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1 The Dying Tradition
Just before the full blue hour.
Family enjoying the catch of the day
Life of Stilt Fishing in India...
Stilt Fishing is a centuries-old fishing method where fishermen perch on wooden stilts embedded in the water, skillfully balancing themselves while casting their nets and catching fish.
2 Stilt Fisherman
Team work in a same frame, Shibasish Saha
Patience and wait lead to the success in catching fishes in a traditional manner.
3 Stilt Fishing Workshop
Man and machine in the same frame.
Experience a Creative Workshop on Stilt Fishing in West Bengal with Shibasish Saha.
We are happy to announce a unique photography workshop organize by Mr. Shibasish Saha, that will take you on an extraordinary journey to witness and capture the art of Stilt Fishing in the beautiful region of West Bengal, India. This workshop is a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, learn new photography techniques, and create stunning images of this traditional fishing practice.
Loneliness during the fishing process.
Details of the workshop:
Program: Stilt Fishing Workshop
Date: 5-6th August 2023 (Saturday & Sunday)
Location: West Bengal, India
Duration: 1 night, 2 days (Kolkata to Kolkata)
Workshop Inclusions: Travel arrangements to the spot, meals, and accommodation throughout the workshop
Cost per person: 10,000
This workshop will provide you with a rare opportunity to witness and capture this traditional practice, ensuring you come away with unique and compelling images.
Our workshop itinerary includes hands-on photography sessions, guided by experienced instructors who will share their expertise and provide personalized guidance. You will have the chance to explore different angles, experiment with composition, and master the art of capturing the essence of Stilt Fishing.
Throughout the workshop, you will have the chance to interact with local fishermen, gaining insights into their lives and the significance of Stilt Fishing in their community.
To register for this exclusive Stilt Fishing Workshop, please reach out Shibasish directly at +918910498808