STILT FISHING IN SRI LANKA, 2017

Balancing Tradition: Witnessing Sri Lanka’s Timeless Stilt Fishing

In 2017, I embarked on a journey to Sri Lanka, where I encountered one of the country’s most iconic and timeless traditions—stilt fishing. Along the southern coast, this ancient method of fishing is still practiced by local fishermen, a delicate balance of patience, skill, and culture.

Stilt fishing involves perching on cross-shaped beams fixed into the shallow waters, often no more than a few meters from the shore. The fishermen sit for hours, poised above the sea, waiting for their catch with minimal equipment—a simple rod, some bait, and the support of the wooden stilt beneath them. Their silhouette, perched against the backdrop of the ocean, creates an image of serenity and timelessness.

As I observed, I was struck by how stilt fishing symbolizes more than just a way to gather food—it represents the harmony between man and nature, a tradition passed down through generations. This practice likely originated after World War II when food shortages drove fishermen to invent new ways to survive. Today, despite modern fishing methods, stilt fishing remains a beautiful expression of Sri Lankan culture, offering a connection to the past in a rapidly changing world.

With its breathtaking simplicity and the quiet determination of those who practice it, stilt fishing is both a visual spectacle and a powerful reminder of resilience. The sight of the fishermen, silhouetted against the setting sun, is a timeless image that I was fortunate to capture, one that embodies the essence of Sri Lanka’s coastal life.

Previous
Previous

EVEREST BASE CAMP

Next
Next

GEISHAS OF KYOTO