Udupi: Sea fish prices have surged sharply across the coastal belt of Karnataka, including Udupi, Dakshina Kannada and Uttara Kannada districts, leaving consumers grappling with steep rates during the peak festive season. While most popular varieties have become prohibitively expensive, Indian Oil Sardine (Boothayi) has emerged as the lone exception, remaining relatively affordable due to good availability.
Prices of commonly consumed fish such as Anjal, Manji, Black Manji, Bangude, prawns, Adavu and Kodai have touched new highs in the past fortnight. Traders and fishermen attribute the sudden spike to a combination of reduced fish landings and a seasonal surge in demand during December, driven by Christmas and New Year celebrations, weddings, and other social events.
Variation in prices across harbours and markets
Fish prices vary widely depending on the source of the catch and the point of sale. Rates differ based on whether fish are brought in by deep-sea fishing vessels, purse seine boats, or traditional fishing boats. For instance, the price of Anjal caught through deep-sea fishing is usually higher than that sourced from purse seine boats.
Similarly, prices at harbours and local markets are not uniform. While Mangaluru harbour and city markets follow one price trend, rates at Malpe and Gangolli harbours and their respective markets differ considerably. This wide variation makes it difficult to fix a standard price for any particular fish across the coastal region.
Fish purchased directly from fishing boats are generally priced differently from fish bought through auction at harbour fish yards. Prices fluctuate on a daily basis, depending on availability and demand, with traders reporting sudden price drops or sharp hikes even within a single day.
Sharp rise over the past two weeks
Compared to prices two weeks ago, when rates were relatively stable, current prices have increased by Rs 100 to Rs 300 per kg for most popular varieties. Varieties such as Anjal, Manji, prawns and Bangude have seen the steepest hikes, affecting household budgets as well as hotel and restaurant businesses.
Traditionally, the fish catch from deep-sea fishing boats declines during December and January due to seasonal conditions. In a normal year, if catches from purse seine and traditional fishing remain healthy, prices tend to stay stable. However, this season has seen lower yields from these sectors as well, pushing prices upward.
Festive demand adds pressure
Adding to supply-side constraints is the sharp rise in local demand during December. Christmas and New Year celebrations, along with festivals and social gatherings, significantly increase fish consumption across coastal districts. With demand rising steadily and supply failing to keep pace, prices have climbed sharply across markets.
Fishermen and traders said that unless landings improve in the coming weeks, high prices are likely to persist into early January.
Boothayi brings some relief
In contrast to other fish varieties, Boothayi (Indian Oil Sardine) has remained relatively affordable this season. The catch of Boothayi has been good through both purse seine and traditional fishing methods, and availability is spread across the entire Karnataka coastline rather than being limited to specific pockets.
Prices of Boothayi vary depending on size and daily availability at each harbour and are usually calculated per basket:
- Small Boothayi: Rs 1,300–1,500 per basket
- Large Boothayi: Rs 4,500–5,000 per basket
Traders said that the steady supply of Boothayi has helped cushion consumers from the overall impact of rising fish prices.
Voices from the fishing community
“Usually during December and January, the catch from deep-sea fishing is slightly low. At the same time, local demand increases. As a result, fish prices witness a marginal rise,” said Dayakar V Suvarna, president of the Kanni Fishermen’s Association, Malpe Harbour. He added that this year the effect has been more pronounced due to reduced catches across multiple fishing methods.
Current fish prices at Malpe Harbour
As per traders at Malpe Harbour, the prevailing prices (per kg) are:
- Anjal: Rs 850–950
- Silver fish: Rs 200–250
- Black Manji: Rs 500–550
- White Manji: Rs 1,200–1,300
- Prawns: Rs 600–800
- Bangude: Rs 200–220
- Adavu: Rs 230–250
- Kodai: Rs 300–350
Conclusion
With declining fish landings and heightened festive demand, sea fish prices along the Karnataka coast have surged sharply, straining household budgets. While Boothayi has provided some relief due to good availability, most other varieties remain expensive. Market watchers say prices may stabilise only if catches improve after the festive season, offering hope of relief to consumers in the coming weeks.