The fishing community in Dakshina Kannada district faces significant challenges as the current fishing season draws to a close, with bumper fishing from the previous season not replicated this time, resulting in a staggering loss of Rs 567.66 crore. Despite efforts, less than 1,43,653 metric tonnes of fish were caught, leading to substantial financial setbacks for fishermen.
As the coastal fishing season nears its end on May 31, a ban on mechanical fishing will be enforced from June 1 to June 31. The season initially showed promise, with good fishing during the first three months, but yields declined sharply in November and December, and fishermen have been grappling with losses since January.
Many fishermen have faced significant financial burdens, with expenses such as diesel, worker salaries, and ice amounting to lakhs of rupees, even as deep-sea fishing fails to yield significant catches. Currently, 70% of boats remain anchored in the harbor, with only 10% engaged in fishing activities, despite 15 days remaining in the season. Consequently, fish prices have soared, compounding the challenges faced by fishermen.
In recent years, fishing yields have fluctuated, with bumper harvests in 2020-21 totaling 1,924.51 crore and declining to 1,89,924 metric tons in 2023-24, resulting in Rs 3,587.13 crore. The current year has been particularly challenging, with many fishermen returning from sea trips with only a fraction of their usual haul, leading to financial distress and an inability to repay bank loans.
Fishermen attribute the decline in fish populations to unscientific fishing practices by neighboring states such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Goa, advocating for the implementation of a “One Nation-One Fishing Act” to regulate fishing activities and preserve marine resources. The community calls for strict action against violators to mitigate further damage to fish populations and safeguard the livelihoods of fishermen.