The Stilt Fishermen Of Sri Lanka

Arguably the poster boys of Sri Lanka, the stilt fishermen are nothing short of iconic. The silhouettes posed against the dusty-orange sunset showcase an art of balance, skill and patience. 

Known as Ritpanna in Sinhala, the local language, these fishermen spend their time upon long bamboo sticks that are embedded in the reef below. A triangular structure creates a perch where they can sit and fish in the best spots, collecting their catch in a bag hanging from the stilt or secured around their waist. 

After the 2004 Tsunami caused widespread destruction to the coral reefs, traditional stilt fishing for food has changed. It has now become a way of presenting a craft that may be lost otherwise, a practice kept alive for the camera. This has caused controversy due to the perception of real life traditions being turned into ‘tourist traps.’

Once purely a fisherman's pursuit, stilt fishing is now increasingly adopted by younger Sri Lankans hoping to earn money from photo opportunities. 

Below we share our experience of the Sri Lanka fishermen on stilts as well as the best places to see them and what to expect from this southern Sri Lanka attraction. 

Contents

Where Are The Stilt Fishermen Located?

The best place to see the stilt fishermen in Sri Lanka is along the south coast. Near Galle, Koggala, Ahangama and Midigama you can find the Sri Lanka fishermen on stilts. Traditionally once a dusk and dawn activity for the best fishing times in the shallow water has now become an all day tourist attraction. 

Discover The Top Things To Do In Sri Lanka!

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How To Get To The Stilt Fishermen?

The transport links in Sri Lanka are great, you can either get the train along from Colombo to one of the towns or opt for the crazy buses! 

Our favourite mode of transport was our hired tuktuk! This meant we could nip around as we liked with the freedom we often crave when travelling. If you want to hire your own tuktuk you can get 5% off tuktukrental.com with our code KandM. 

Stilt Fishermen

Due to the country's hardships after WWII, innovative fishing methods were created to help combat food shortages. The traditional practice involves the men sitting on a petta which is a cross bar attached to a pole planted in the coral reef. This allowed fishermen to access deeper water without the need for boats. 

These structures are simple and effective, often used with a bamboo rod to catch small reef fish such as herrings and small mackerel. 

Stilt Fishermen Today

The traditional art of stilt fishing has declined rapidly since the destruction of the coral reefs caused by the 2004 tsunami, a topic that is explored in more detail at the museum in Hikkaduwa. This left fish populations declining and less income for the fishermen. It became more profitable as a tourist attraction, allowing visitors to pay for photos which leads us on to our experience. 

The Tourist Experience vs Authentic Stilt Fishing 

Unfortunately this simple craft of stilt fishermen has become somewhat of a tourist trap. You can find staged areas along the south coast near Koggala, Midigama and Ahangama where fishermen pose for photos. 

Usually on the banks will be a man asking for a donation for your photo, although it’s too hard to leave without paying. Often they ask for 1000-2000 LKR. 

We saw reviews of fake fish being on the end of some of the lines, although we didn’t see this. We went to see the Ahangama stilt fishermen and what we experienced was a large tour bus of people crowding a small ‘show’ of fishermen that left their perch as soon as the bus had gone. 

So what was once a traditional art combating food shortages has become men in costume posing for tourists. 

Where To Find Authentic Sri Lankan Stilt Fishermen

Any actual fishing by the stilt fishermen will occur at dawn (5-7am) or dusk (5-6:30pm). Seeing authentic stilt fishing in Sri Lanka is now pretty rare.

Ethical Complications With The Stilt Fishermen In Sri Lanka

Although it may be frustrating, it is important to remember this is how these men make their living. Therefore if you don’t want to pay to take a photo then be respectful and skip this off your travel list. The small fee has become part of their livelihood. 

Sri Lankan Stilt Fishermen FAQs

How much do stilt fishermen charge?

Often the charge will be presented as a donation. Typically photos cost 1000-2000 LKR (£2-£5)

What is the best time of year to see stilt fishing?

Stilt fishermen can be seen in the dry season which runs from November to April offers calmer seas and better weather conditions. During Monsoon season (May-October) stilt fishing is often impossible.

Is stilt fishing dying out?

As a practical fishing method, yes. It has turned into a cultural display, but some families still continue the tradition.

Can tourists try stilt fishing?

Some locals offer stilt fishing experiences for around 2000-3000 LKR. These are typically staged for tourists rather than authentic fishing opportunities.

How long do fishermen typically stay on the stilts?

Originally the stilt fishermen would spend 2-3 hours perched on their petta. Today the men are seen getting on the stilts as tourists turn up.  

Best Places To Stay In Near The Stilt Fishermen

Our Final Thoughts On The Stilt Fishermen

For us, the experience of a large tour bus and constant pestering for money took away from seeing a traditional craft. However, if you visit with the expectation that the experience is largely staged, and focus instead on learning about the history and cultural significance behind stilt fishing you may come away with a deeper appreciation.

Top Tips For Travelling Sri Lanka

If you’re visiting Sri Lanka here are our top travel tips:

1. Rent a Tuk Tuk as Transport  - This made our trip! Not only did we have complete freedom and flexibility it allowed us to have authentic relationships with locals. Use our code "KandM" for 5% off Tuktuk Rental.

2. Stay in Homestays - Staying in local homestays meant we experienced authentic food and the local way of life. Everyone was extremely friendly and happy to help. 

3. Don’t Forget the North - Many tourists stick to the south coast but if you have time explore places such as Anuradhapura, Trincomalee and Arugam bay!

4. Embrace The Chaos and get stuck in, the locals are friendly and love to help and share information about their home!

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Thank you for reading and enjoy your Sri Lankan adventure. Reach out to us over on Instagram @KateandMikesTravels. We always love to hear from people who read our blogs!