Tradition is one area that helps us find connections between what we do today and what our forefathers. Our traditions are a blend of doing things for livelihood and doing things as a hobby. Fishing finds a place in both areas from times immemorial. Whatever the case may be, it is amazing to see that the techniques and instruments used by our forefathers over the period of time have changed but the concept of fishing will remain the same. It is popularly said that fishing is not just an activity, it is an emotion. Goans have seen or experienced several traditional methods of fishing over time.
Rod fishing commonly known as Garovap will surely be very fresh in everyone’s minds as a childhood hobby. A picture of a man with a hat standing on the shore of local water bodies or in his boat is what comes to our mind. The simple joy of holding a fishing rod of bamboo material was what made fishing success and the tradition still continues today. With the advancement in technology today we have various kinds of fishing rods in Goa like special boat rods based on conventional fishing, popping rods, fly rods, trolling rods and spinning rods. A reel helps is casting the line further along with the bait. Baitcasting reels are literally your friend in need.
Another popular traditional means of fishing is line fishing which is locally known as Poler. If you are in pursuant of a catch that consists of big sized fish then line fishing is your best bet. A drive across any of the bridges in Goa will give you glimpses of people fishing using a line with no rod in hand. You will need braided lines, monofilament lines, leader lines, fly Lines and so on which can be used based on strength and durability.
Also Read: Best Time For Fishing In Goa
When it comes to using nets we have the gill net fishing which is referred to as Katali, it is often seen being carried out on water bodies like ponds and lakes. A large net is cast on the water, having floats at the edges to make sure the surface remains covered with the net and the bottom part of the net gets submerged to form a trap for the fish. The stick net also called Khutanis is used to trap fishing in the waters by burying sticks at boundaries and wrapping a net around them. Cast net fishing or Paghel is used by fishermen especially in the seas from the shore during low tides. The net is spread across the water and then catches the fish. Crab trap or Kobli is the best local traditional method to catch crabs. A delicacy of Goans, a simple basket that is netted proves to be an effective measure to catch crabs.
Traditions have brought us to where we are today. The thrill of fishing has increased with modern equipment and several unique fishing tools in Goa, all of which are available at Casa Ibrahim. Your one-stop solution to all the necessary equipment to with no compromise in quality.
