Like most traditions, stilt fishing in Sri Lanka was born out of necessity. With the influx of British troops during World War II, the demand for food and subsequent overfishing forced many Sri Lankan fishermen out of their conventional, long-established fishing spots and demanded them to rethink their strategy. This led to the practice of perching on existing features within the waterline such as large rocks, sunken vessels and in some cases ditched aircrafts. However, new, desirable fishing spots located elsewhere made the fishermen think again.
Before long, savvy individuals had begun erecting stilts directly on the coral reefs to provide themselves with the best possible fishing spots. Despite the demanding level of physical fitness, mental fortitude and significant patience required, fisherman on the coastline of Galle have been using this technique for over 70 years, across 3 generations.
The relaxed and stealth stilt fisherman make the whole process look incredibly easy but in reality, fishing this way requires a great deal of skill and balance. Seated on a vertical crossbar with a rod, the fishermen are positioned a few metres above sea level, which allows them to catch mackerels and herrings from the shallows without disturbing the water. The catch is then collected in a bag tied either to the fisherman’s pole or to his waist.
For visitors the allure perhaps lies not just in seeing the skilled individuals deftly plucking fish from the shallows but also in the opportunity to try their hand at stilt fishing themselves. Seeing the action for oneself is simply mesmerising and every photo taken is instantly Instagram worthy: the silhouetted figures set against the sinking Sri Lankan sun is a privilege to see.
However, all is maybe not as it seems. Since the devastating 2004 tsunami, the Sri Lankan coast has been irreparably changed and with it, so too has the fishing industry. The age-old tradition of stilt fishing has therefore been badly affected, with many fisherman given no choice but to seek work elsewhere in farms or in cities. For a period of time the future of this tradition looked dire but tourism has been its saviour.
With diminishing returns for their catch, stilt fishermen have now sought alternative income: offering tourists photos in exchange for a small tip. And while some visitors (look to TripAdvisor) consider this disingenuous, this has enabled the tradition to survive. The fishermen have shrewdly adapted and the conscientious traveller can feel good knowing they’ve contributed to the local community. So make the most of the sunset and the friendly locals, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
The Fortress Resort & Spa
On a trip to see the stilt fisherman at work? Stay at The Fortress Resort & Spa, perfectly situated for exploring this beautiful area of Sri Lanka.
Located just outside of Galle, on the stunning Koggala Beach, The Fortress Resort & Spa is a carefully designed, enclosed retreat providing the utmost privacy and luxury for all its guests.
Immaculately cultivated gardens surround the rooms and suites, which marry Sri Lankan tradition and contemporary design with rich woods and traditional fabrics in airy interiors featuring streams of natural light from large windows. High-spec amenities include in-room plunge pools and enormous walk-in showers only surpassed by the garden or ocean views.
The Fortress’ Spa Naturel is the pièce de résistance. A world-class sanctuary offering non-invasive, Ayurvedic treatments using only local natural ingredients.
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, we’d love to see your pictures. Simply tag us @CNJohansens and we’ll share our favourite images with the community.