Go Fish - Bali Style

Wed, 26 May 2004

While in Bali, I had the good fortune to witness at least 7 different types of fishing techniques. 2 involved a boat, and the rest were from the shore. Only one involved a fishing pole.

Many Balinese are resourceful and knowledgeable fishermen. For many, it's as much second nature to think of fishing for dinner as it is for suburbanites to think of driving to the supermarket. Many make a living selling fish on shore to the locals that meet the boat, or if it's a really large catch or if someones put in a request to local restaurants or the market. No fish is considered too small!

The most popular times to fish are dawn and dusk, but sea creatures can still be captured at other times of the day. Many creatures, including squid, are reputed to come out during the full moon. The lore and rhythms of fishing life have a magical quality, enhanced by the sheer beauty of the ocean reflecting these breathtakingly moody skies. The sounds also captivate, such as water lapping against boats and paddles, and fisherman shouting jokes and updates.

People kindly allowed me to tag along to observe and enjoy the experience. My only duties were to do some token bailing, and otherwise stay out of the way and not step on the fish thrown into the bottom of the boat.



Different styles of Fishing On Bali...

1) Fishing by motor/sail/paddle boat about 20 minutes from shore, with a large net to catch fish.




2) Fishing by paddle boat just past the breakers, with a hand pulled lure to catch squid for dinner. Unfortunately, the big one got away and I was asked to take a picture of the unfortunate creatures tiny hide still hanging from the hook. I ended up buying our dinner onshorer from one of the more successful net fishermen.





3) Fishing from shore by moonlight, with a small thrown net with weighted edges. The net is thrown into the surf and carefully gathered and pulled onto shore for inspection. Half dollar sized fish, and foot long skinny barracudas, are all acceptable!


4) Early morning fishing from shore with a sharkfin shaped float pulled along the shore by a long hand held fishing line. Iniitially, I didn't realize the quick roving shark or dolphin fin was actually fake, and I excitedly tried to point it out to the fisherman. Unfortunately, he didn't understand English and so couldn't share in the embarrassed laugh I had at myself when I figured it all out.






5) Surf casting with a fishing pole. The standard rather meditative ritual or casting out and reeling in and hoping something bites or is snagged.


6) spear fishing for fish and sometimes lobster. Many of these folks have floating bags or containers awaiting the bounty.


7) Fishing with a pole in the decorative fish pond. What wasn't tasty would be used for bait for larger fish. No caught fish is spared!


8) Fishing for attention