Southern fisherman reels in massive haul with pit traps

In the southern regions of Vietnam, local communities have developed a unique and traditional method to catch fish during the cold season. This technique involves digging pits in the ground as an effective way to trap fish when they migrate due to the northerly winds. The practice is rooted in history, having emerged as an improvised fishing method before modern tools became widely available.

Fishermen would strategically place jars and pots or dig circular holes approximately 30 centimeters wide and 50 centimeters deep along the pathways where water from rice fields flows into canals. These pits are then covered with a layer of soft mud, making them nearly invisible to the fish. This method relies on the natural behavior of fish during colder weather, when they tend to move towards areas with moisture and warmth.

To ensure the stability of the traps, jars and pots must be secured in place using wooden stakes. Once the setup is complete, the area is camouflaged with coconut leaves to blend seamlessly with the surroundings. This allows the trap to remain undetected by fish for extended periods.

As temperatures drop late at night, fish are drawn toward the canal by the scent of mud and moisture. They follow these cues, often moving along the pathways where the traps have been set. However, the pits are designed in such a way that the fish eventually fall into them and are unable to escape. This method has proven to be both effective and sustainable, relying on the natural movement of fish rather than aggressive or harmful techniques.

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