Bank Line Fishing in Pakistan: Traditional Coastal Livelihood
Bank line fishing, known locally as \“Sahil Samandar Say Machli Pakarna\“, represents one of Pakistan\“s oldest coastal traditions practiced along the Arabian Sea coastline. Fishermen in Sindh and Balochistan provinces employ simple hand lines from shore or small boats, using techniques passed down through generations.The method involves baited hooks attached to weighted lines thrown directly into coastal waters. Common catches include pomfret, snapper, and mackerel species abundant in Pakistani territorial waters. This sustainable approach minimizes bycatch compared to commercial trawling methods.
Coastal communities in Karachi, Gwadar, and Ormara have preserved this cultural heritage despite modernization pressures. The rhythmic casting and retrieval motions have become part of coastal cultural performances during local festivals like Eid-ul-Fitr and Sindh Cultural Day celebrations.
Traditional knowledge includes reading tidal patterns, lunar cycles, and seasonal fish migrations. Elder fishermen teach younger generations about monsoonal fishing restrictions and conservation practices that have maintained marine resources for centuries.
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