Karnataka Coast Gears Up for New Fishing Season from August 1

Mangaluru: After a two-month monsoon ban, the 2025 fishing season along the Karnataka coast will officially begin on August 1, bringing hope to the fishing community after months of challenging weather and low catch.

Trawl boats are preparing to resume operations, but will venture out only after reviewing weather updates from the Meteorological Department. Meanwhile, purse seine (Persin) boats have decided to begin fishing after Samudra Puja on August 9, a traditional ritual marking the sea’s blessing for a fruitful season.

Despite heavy rain and strong winds over the last six weeks, recent sunny days have allowed fishermen to restart preparations. Boats are being repaired, nets are being mended, and tax-free diesel is being stocked. Workers from other states are also returning to support the operations.

The sector has been under stress due to extreme weather events and heatwaves since February, which led to a notable decline in fish availability and erratic pricing in local markets. Many traders had to rely on ice-stored fish and imports from Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Odisha.

Official data reflects this downturn:

• 2.39 lakh tons of fish were caught in 2023–24

Meanwhile, modernization efforts at Mangaluru’s fishing harbor (Dakke) continue under the PM Matsya Samriddhi Yojana, with Phase 3 underway at a cost of Rs 37.5 crore. The old auction yard has been cleared, and roadwork may temporarily disrupt port activity at the start of the season.