The Kerala fishing net, also known as the Chinese fishing net or Cheena vala, is an iconic sight along the backwaters and coastal areas of Kerala, India. These massive stationary nets are fixed on wooden or bamboo poles and operate using a cantilever system with counterweights.
These traditional fishing nets are particularly famous in Kochi, where they line the waterfront and create a picturesque landscape. The nets are lowered into the water and raised after some time to catch fish. This ancient fishing method was introduced by Chinese explorers centuries ago and has become an integral part of Kerala\“s fishing culture.
Local fishermen continue to use these nets for their daily catch, making them not just a tourist attraction but also a functional fishing tool. The nets are especially effective for catching small to medium-sized fish in the brackish waters where rivers meet the sea. |
