Mangalore: Although fishing along the Karnataka coast remains under the annual monsoon ban until July 31, the coastal markets of Mangalore, Malpe, Gangolli, Bhatkal, Kumta, and Karwar are bustling with fish — not from local waters, but from Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Gujarat, and Odisha.

Currently, 40–50 lorries are arriving daily, offloading around 5,000 boxes of fish, handled by 26 commission agents. Despite the temporary ban, traders are ensuring a steady supply by coordinating with suppliers from other states.

Key Details:

  • Fish from Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh takes one day to arrive, while supplies from Odisha and Gujarat take up to two days.

  • Boats from Kerala also reach overnight, supplying fresh stock to local markets.

  • The fishing ban in Karnataka is in place for June and July to allow fish populations to regenerate. Local fishing will resume on August 1.

    • Fresh fish, especially buthai (sardines), is in high demand — particularly among hotels. Prices have been climbing steadily, based on supply:

    • Rs. 4,000 (25 kg box) on July 15

  • Rs. 5,000 on July 16

  • Rs. 6,000 on July 17

  • Rs. 7,000 on July 19

    • Trucks carrying fish are required to enter Mangalore Fisheries Gate by 5:30 am, with trading concluding by 9:00 am daily. Buyers pour in from Moodbidri, Bantwal, Puttur, Sullia, Belthangady, and even parts of northern Kerala.

    With Karnataka’s fishing season set to reopen soon, local markets are expected to witness a major shift in supply dynamics.