Stilt Fishermen of Sri Lanka

Stilt Fishing is one of the most interesting fishing methods unique to Sri Lanka. ‘Ritipanna’ is the Sinhala term for stilt fishing. Stilt fishing is a traditional method for fishing practiced by most fishermen along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. The beautiful sight of fishermen perched branched poles as they fish skillfully during dawn, noon and dusk is popularly found in areas such as Mirissa, Ahangama, Koggala, Welipenna, Kathaluwa and Thalarambe.

Though stilt fishermen make the activity seem easy and comfortable, stilt fishing requires much skill and balance. A vertical pole with an attached crossbar is embedded into the sea floor among the shallows, or on a riverbed. The crossbar, called a ‘petta’, allows the fishermen to be seated a couple of meters above the water causing minimal shadows on the water and hence little to no disturbance amongst the sea life. The stilt fishermen then use a rod from this precarious position to bring in a good catch of spotted herrings and small mackerels from the comparative shallows of the sea or from the river. They collect the catch in a bag tied to the pole or to their waist.

Where you can see stilt fishermen

Those who want to learn more about stilt fishing should book a tour to Mirissa beach, Hikkaduwa Beach or Unawatuna Beach. Stilt fishing in Sri Lanka is a tourist attraction.

Some of the fishermen are quite happy to show how they fish, and speak about their lives. There are also opportunities to try the activity if interested; not to mention the breathtaking photographic views provided by the fishermen silhouetted against the horizon at dawn and dusk.