Fishers in Maysan navigate challenges on the Tigris to preserve a way of living

MAYSAN — In the village of Beit Huyouth, within the Al-Qala’a Al-Salih area of Maysan province, young fishers continue the age-old practice of fishing from the Tigris River using small boats, locally known as shakhtoura, and traditional nets. Venturing out at 1 a.m. or during midday, they spend hours amidst the dense trees along the riverbanks, sometimes sleeping by the river as they wait for a catch.

However, the fishers have expressed frustration over illegal fishing methods, such as the use of electrofishing and explosives, which disrupt traditional practices and threaten fish populations.

Hussein Ali, a fisher from the area, explained the routine to 964media. “We head out at 1 a.m. or at noon, moving between different locations,” Ali said. “Sometimes we succeed, sometimes we don’t. Recently, there has been an increase in fish in the river.”

“The biggest issue is the decline in the species because of prohibited fishing equipment like electrofishing devices,” he added. “We cast our nets in the river, but sometimes we return empty-handed.”

Fishers often travel to distant areas, such as Al-Azeer, returning to Amarah or Al-Mijar after hours of navigation. Timing is critical when retrieving nets, as fish can escape if delayed.

Ali described the physically demanding nature of fishing, which sometimes involves spending entire nights on the river.

“We use the shakhtoura to move to less accessible areas. Sometimes we spend the night on the river, and other times we leave at midnight and return in the morning,” he said.

River police monitor for the use of illegal devices like electrofishing, which is banned due to its harmful impact on fish populations and the ecosystem.

Despite the challenges posed by illegal fishing practices and fluctuating fish populations, the fishers of Al-Qala’a Al-Salih remain committed to preserving their traditions and sustaining their way of life.

Kadhim Abdul-Hussein, a resident of Al-Qala’a Al-Salih, emphasized the importance of the river for the community’s livelihood.

“We live off the blessings of the river,” Abdul-Hussein said. “The youth cast their nets into the water and earn their living with God’s grace. They return in the morning and sell their catch at the market.”

Fishing is a lifeline for many. “It’s better than remaining unemployed,” Abdul-Hussein added.

The riverbanks also provide a natural escape. “This area’s beauty, with its trees purifying the air, makes it a haven. Sometimes, when I feel overwhelmed, I join Hussein by the river. I steer the boat while he casts the nets,” Abdul-Hussein shared.