Some mornings, we find ourselves standing quietly on the riverbank, watching the first light dance on the water. The air is fresh, the river calm, and the world seems still before the day begins.

Casting a net isn’t just work for us—it’s a rhythm, a tradition, and a way to connect with nature. Each day starts before sunrise, with our nets and baskets ready, and a sense of anticipation for whatever the river will offer.

Preparing for the Catch

Preparation is key before we even step onto the river. We carefully inspect our nets, repairing any holes and ensuring the weights are properly attached. Selecting the right net size is important, as it depends on the type and size of fish we aim to catch. Our small wooden or motorized boats are loaded with essentials: extra nets, baskets, sometimes bait, and even a few tools for emergencies. A fisherman who skips preparation risks a poor catch, wasted time, or even damage to equipment.

Techniques of Net Casting

Casting the net looks effortless when we do it, but it takes years of practice to master. The net must spread evenly over the water; otherwise, fish escape. We adjust the angle, the force, and the timing based on the river’s current. Some of us prefer circular throws to cover a wide area, while others use straight-line throws to target specific spots where fish gather. Each throw is a calculated action, combining observation, strength, and timing.

Working with the River

We don’t fight the river—we work with it. Observing currents, ripples, and even shadows beneath the surface helps us predict where fish are swimming. Splashing water or sudden movement can signal a school of fish, and sometimes we change our position several times to find the perfect spot. The river is alive, and we must stay alert, adapting to its moods and the seasonal patterns of fish behavior.

Harvesting the Catch

After a successful cast, we carefully pull the net back into the boat. Emptying it is both exciting and satisfying—seeing a net full of fish after hours of effort feels like a small victory. We sort the fish by size and species, placing them into baskets for sale or home use. This part requires care to prevent injury and ensure the fish remain fresh. It’s a physical yet rewarding part of our daily routine, reinforcing the connection between skill, patience, and reward.

Challenges on the River

Fishing is never without challenges. Rivers can be unpredictable: currents may suddenly strengthen, rain can make the banks slippery, and fish behavior may change with the weather or season. Equipment can fail, and maintaining nets and boats is a constant task. Despite these difficulties, we continue fishing because it sustains us and strengthens our understanding of nature. Every challenge teaches us resilience, observation, and problem-solving.

The Community Around Us

Fishing is a social as well as practical activity. We are part of a community that shares tips, techniques, and fishing spots. Older fishermen pass down knowledge to younger generations, teaching them not only how to catch fish, but also how to respect the river and its resources. Festivals or market days highlight our skills, turning fishing into both a livelihood and a cultural tradition. Community support is essential for survival and helps maintain local customs that have lasted for generations.

Daily Life Beyond Fishing

Our lives extend beyond the river. After a morning of casting nets, we clean our boats, mend torn nets, and prepare baskets for the next day. Some of us sell fish directly at markets, interacting with buyers and sharing stories about the day’s catch. Others supply local restaurants or shops, ensuring the freshest fish reach tables within hours. Life as a fisherman is not only about catching fish—it is a full-circle routine involving work, care, and connection to both nature and people.

Life on the River

Casting nets on the river is both an art and a livelihood. We rise with the sun, observe the waters, adjust to currents, and patiently wait for the right moment to cast. Every successful catch is the result of preparation, skill, and patience. Next time you see fresh fish at a market, remember the effort behind it. Life on the river is full of challenges, rewards, and lessons, and we are proud to share this journey with you. For us, the river is more than a workplace—it is a classroom, a stage, and a home.