BY AUGUSTO RODRIGUES
As the mechanised fishing boats that left various jetties in Goa yesterday – the last day of venturing out to fish – returned with their catch today, there were smiles on the faces of the fisherfolk and customers as the nets pulled in another bumper catch, one of many during the season that just ended.
“It was a very good season for mechanised and traditional fishermen of Goa as there was a bumper catch of mackerels and the sardines resurfaced again. There was a windfall in terms of quantity and quality of fish,” was the line used by Sarmila Monteiro, Director of Fisheries, while describing the just concluded fishing season.
With most trawlers having docked on May 31, Betim Jetty saw a different scale of activity, with most workers cleaning the trawlers, owners deliberating on finances and some deciding where the trawlers should be parked.
“It was a good season in terms of catch, but we could not get a good price for the fish caught. The season was not that bad for those of us trawling but good for those into purse seine fishing. Their catch was better, and they got a better price for their fish,” according to Florence from Siridao who has two trawlers.
“Prices depend on supply and demand, and, this year, since the catch was so good, obviously the prices slumped. I do not think anyone should be unhappy," explained Monteiro.
Fishing in Goa starts on August 1 and ends on May 31, permitting aquatic life time to breed.
“It was a good season after the pandemic with literally no problem of shortage of staff – labour hands for fishing are hired from neighbouring states – and good weather through the season,” observed Lazarus as he finished the business end of discussions with his tandel (skipper of the fishing boat) from Andhra Pradesh.
“I got kingfish for Rs 600 during the start of the season, and the price increased gradually till it was Rs 1,200 for a kilo. But in between a variety of fish was available in the market with even prawns being affordable,” quipped Leena as she picked a variety of fish for her last visit to the fish market.
“Fish caught by traditional fishermen is found in the market sometimes, but I tend to avoid it unless it is an emergency,” added Leena as she proceeded, carrying her bag to her vehicle.
Life at the Betim Jetty was chaotic with everyone trying to get a bit of the fish before the nets are pulled in for the last time.
“I will be going home in three days and returning in mid-July to help repair the nets. I want to see and be with my family,” opines Raju, as he prepares to leave for his room.
“There are a few agents who supply manpower to run our boats or even get people from outside ready to lease our boats for the season. Personally, I think it is better to fish than to lease because the catch can never be predicted,” claims Ashok, studying the performance of his crew.
“Ninety per cent of the staff return home and a few stay back. They are the ones who either don’t have families to go back to or are in love with Goa,” offers Mateus with a mischievous smile that appears to have encompassed the jetty in Betim.