Nghe An coastal communities maintain century-old net fishing tradition

In the central Vietnamese province of Nghe An, coastal communities in An Chau, Hai Chau, Quynh Phu, and Quynh Anh communes continue to practice a traditional net fishing method passed down through generations.

Fishermen utilize specialized nets designed with top floats and bottom weights to ensure they remain effective against sandy bottoms. The process involves deploying the nets in a semicircle to trap fish and shrimp in shallow tidal flats. Success in this method requires precise coordination, patience, and an understanding of tidal conditions and wave patterns.

Operations are typically conducted on calm, dry days. Fishermen must carefully maintain the net's direction and tension to prevent escapes, followed by cleaning and folding the equipment to prepare for subsequent hauls.