One of the most famous sights in Sri Lanka is a fisherman sitting on a wooden pole above the sea. He sits quietly with a fishing rod and waits for fish.
One of the most famous sights in Sri Lanka is a fisherman sitting on a narrow wooden pole above the sea. With only a fishing rod, he seems to balance easily over the waves. Many tourists think this is an ancient tradition, but it actually began much more recently.
Stilt fishing, called rita pannya, is believed to have started after the Second World War along Sri Lanka's southern coast. It became popular in places such as Koggala, Ahangama and Weligama.
After the war, many fishermen had very little equipment and could not afford boats. They used their ingenuity to find a new way to catch fish. They placed wooden poles in the shallow sea and added a small crossbar where they could perch while fishing.
By sitting above the water instead of standing in it, they could avoid frightening the fish away. This helped them catch fish such as mackerel and herring.
Although the idea looks simple, stilt fishing is not easy. Fishermen need excellent balance and a lot of patience. They often sit for several hours in the hot sun, waiting for fish to bite.
For many years, this method provided enough fish to support local families.
Everything changed after the Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004. The giant waves destroyed homes, fishing boats and many of the wooden stilts along the coast. Fishing communities had to rebuild their lives.
At the same time, modern fishing boats and equipment became cheaper and more effective. Many younger fishermen chose these new methods because they could catch more fish in less time.
Today, true stilt fishermen are much less common.
Visitors can still see fishermen sitting on stilts, but the situation can sometimes be deceptive. In some places, the fishermen are demonstrating the tradition for tourists instead of fishing for food. Visitors often pay them to take photographs.
Some people believe this is changing an old tradition into entertainment. Others think tourism helps keep the tradition alive and provides local people with another way to earn money.
Several organisations are working to protect this special part of Sri Lanka's culture. They hope future generations will continue to learn about the history of stilt fishing.
The story of these fishermen shows great resilience. Even after natural disasters and changes in technology, local communities have found ways to continue sharing their traditions.
For travellers, watching the stilt fishermen is one of the highlights of a visit to Sri Lanka. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to see them because the light creates beautiful colours across the sea.
The fishermen, sitting quietly above the waves, create one of the country's most famous views.
Their story also reminds us that traditions can change over time. People must often find a harmony between protecting old customs and accepting modern life.
Even today, the stilt fishermen remain an important symbol of Sri Lanka and continue to inspire visitors from around the world.
Available levels: A1 · A2 · B1 · B2 · C1 · C2