Mangaluru/Udupi: The fishing season in the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi is ending on a positive note, with a significant increase in fish production bringing relief to the fishing community after the sharp decline witnessed last year. The mandatory 61-day mechanized fishing ban will come into force from June 1 and continue till July 31 across the Karnataka coast.

Despite several challenges during the latter part of the season, including fuel shortages and price hikes linked to conflicts in the Middle East, the region recorded encouraging fish production figures. Fishermen and fisheries officials said favourable natural conditions and improved marine yield helped offset the operational difficulties faced during the season.

Authorities stated that the season witnessed one of the better performances in recent years, even amid concerns over global warming, marine pollution and rising operational costs. The availability of fish in coastal waters remained comparatively stable, helping fishermen recover from the losses suffered during the previous season.

Mangaluru records strong fish production

According to fisheries data, the 2025-26 fishing season in Mangaluru recorded a total catch of 1,97,381 tonnes of fish valued at Rs 3,856 crore. In comparison, the 2024-25 season had witnessed a significant drop, with fish production falling to 1,71,795 tonnes worth Rs 2,220 crore.

However, the current season still remains below the 2023-24 figures, when the district had registered 2,39,758 tonnes of fish catch valued at Rs 3,976 crore.

Fishermen stated that while the overall production remained satisfactory, several infrastructure-related problems created difficulties towards the close of the season. Development work under the first and third phases of the fishing dock project is currently underway, reducing operational space for fishing vessels.

Out of the total 1,400-metre dock area, only around 250 metres are currently accessible for berthing. This has created severe congestion for mechanized boats returning to the harbour before the commencement of the annual fishing ban.

Another major concern raised by boat operators is the construction of a bund related to the bridge project between Tannirbhavi Bengre and Sultan Battery. Fishermen alleged that the structure has obstructed the safe movement of boats to maintenance and parking areas designated for the monsoon ban period.

Udupi sees rise in catch value

In neighbouring Udupi district, the fisheries department estimated a total fish catch of 3.52 lakh tonnes valued at Rs 3,596.66 crore during the current season. Officials said this reflected nearly a 25 per cent increase in value compared to recent years.

The district had previously recorded 3.73 lakh tonnes of fish worth Rs 4,670.86 crore during the 2023-24 season, while the 2024-25 season saw production fall to 2.32 lakh tonnes valued at Rs 2,910.97 crore.

The season reportedly began on a weak note, with poor fish availability during September and October. Operations were further affected by shortages of diesel and cooking gas, which disrupted fishing schedules for several weeks.

However, the last three months of the season produced comparatively better yields, helping fishermen recover part of their losses and stabilise earnings.

Space crunch at Malpe harbour worries fishermen

Fishermen in Udupi district have also raised concerns over the severe lack of space at the Malpe fishing harbour. The harbour currently accommodates more than 1,800 mechanized fishing boats, while the available three-stage jetty infrastructure can berth only around 400 boats at a time.

As a result, boats are reportedly parked in multiple rows, often six or seven deep, causing frequent collisions between wooden and steel vessels. Fishermen said the congestion has led to recurring damage to boats and increased maintenance expenses.

The shortage of berthing space is also forcing several boat owners to temporarily shift operations to alternative harbours in neighbouring regions.

Demand to extend fishing ban period

Meanwhile, fishing communities along the coast have renewed demands to extend the annual mechanized fishing ban from the present June 1 to July 31 schedule to a longer period from June 16 to August 31. Fishermen’s associations have also called for a uniform fishing regulation policy across the entire western coastline of India.

Authorities confirmed that all mechanized boats must return to shore by May 31 ahead of the enforcement of the ban. Strict action will be initiated against violators operating during the restricted period.

Considering the large number of returning vessels, fisheries officials said a grace period of four to five days would be permitted solely for unloading fish catch and completing harbour formalities.

During the 61-day ban period, only traditional fishing boats fitted with engines below 10 horsepower will be allowed to conduct shallow-water fishing close to the shore.

The annual fishing ban is imposed every year to protect marine biodiversity and support fish breeding during the monsoon season. Fisheries experts believe that maintaining sustainable fishing practices remains essential for the long-term survival of the coastal fishing economy.