Udupi: While many are familiar with fishing in rivers, lakes, or the sea, coastal Karnataka has its own unique monsoon tradition — “uber fishing” in the fields.
With the first rains of the season, canals overflow, spilling into nearby fields and creating a temporary aquatic haven for fish. This triggers the arrival of eel-like fish, especially catfish, which locals eagerly catch — often at night using torchlights.
Last night in the Kapu Kurkalu area, a large Asian walking catfish was caught, drawing excitement from the community. Known locally for their distinct taste and texture, these fish are considered more flavorful than typical river or sea fish.
Interestingly, this variety — known scientifically as Clarias batrachus — is also called walking catfish due to its ability to move short distances over land, especially in wet conditions. They spawn only during the first week of the rainy season, making this a brief yet busy fishing window for coastal residents.
This seasonal, rain-driven tradition is both a cultural spectacle and a cherished culinary event in Udupi’s rural life.
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