Tides play a crucial role in fishing activities along India\“s coastal regions. The rhythmic rise and fall of ocean waters directly influence fish behavior and movement patterns. During high tide, many fish species move closer to shorelines and into estuaries to feed, making them more accessible to local fishermen using traditional nets and fishing equipment.
In India, traditional fishing communities have developed deep knowledge of tidal patterns over generations. Fishermen in states like Kerala, Gujarat, and West Bengal time their fishing expeditions based on tidal cycles. The incoming tide brings nutrient-rich waters that attract various fish species, while the outgoing tide helps in net fishing as fish get carried along with the water flow. This natural timing reduces fuel consumption and increases catch efficiency for local fishing boats and traditional crafts.
Indian fishing products like handmade nets, traditional fishing rods, and indigenous boat designs are specifically adapted to work with tidal patterns. The tidal knowledge helps in sustainable fishing practices, ensuring that local fishing communities can harvest seafood products including pomfret, mackerel, and shrimp while maintaining ecological balance in coastal waters. |
