Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, Jun 10: With the annual monsoon ban on mechanised fishing now in effect across Goa, traditional fishermen using age-old methods are witnessing a welcome surge in demand for their fresh catch.

The Goa government, as part of its conservation efforts, has enforced a seasonal fishing ban from June 1 to July 31, prohibiting the use of mechanised trawlers during the critical fish breeding season. As a result, villages like Nauxi and Cacra, nestled in North Goa near Panaji, are seeing their traditional fishing practices come into the spotlight once again.

Fisheries Minister Nilkant Halarnkar confirmed that the state is actively supporting these fishermen through various government schemes. “These traditional fishermen are the custodians of our coastal heritage. They continue to fish using non-mechanised canoes, even in challenging monsoon conditions,” he said.

In Nauxi, a coastal village with just around 40 households, the daily rhythm begins early. “We set out between 4:30 am and 5:00 am, and return by 7:00 am,” shared Sanjay Pereira, a local fisherman. Using either paddles or small 8-horsepower engines, they cautiously navigate nearshore waters, avoiding the deeper sea due to high wind warnings and rough conditions.

“During this time, many fish come closer to the shore for breeding, making this season very crucial. That's why the ban on big trawlers is both necessary and beneficial,” Pereira added.

The government has also sealed all seven fishing jetties to ensure strict implementation of the monsoon fishing ban, thereby preventing illegal trawling activities.

Traditional fishing, once thought to be a vanishing livelihood, is now gaining renewed importance during the monsoon. The government’s support, coupled with a rise in demand for locally caught fish, is offering a fresh lease of life to these time-honoured communities.

As modern methods pause for the rains, it’s the traditional canoe fishers who keep Goa’s fish markets alive — one oar stroke at a time.