Fishing is an important economic activity in West Bengal, India, with the state having a long coastline along the Bay of Bengal. The local fishing industry provides livelihood to thousands of people in coastal communities.
Traditional Bengali fishing methods include the use of small wooden boats called \“dinghies\“ and various types of nets such as \“jal\“ and \“ber jal\“. The Sundarbans mangrove forest area is particularly rich in fish resources, supporting both commercial and subsistence fishing.
Popular fish varieties caught in Bengali waters include hilsa （ilish）, rohu, katla, and pomfret. Hilsa fish holds special cultural significance in Bengali cuisine and is considered a delicacy during festivals.
The fishing industry in Bengal has modernized with the introduction of mechanized boats and improved storage facilities. However, traditional fishing practices continue to coexist with modern methods, preserving the cultural heritage of Bengali fishing communities. |
