Mullet Netting: A Symbol of Struggle and Resilience among Bachok Fishermen

A Cherished Tradition

Deemed a cherished tradition by the fisherfolk of Bachok, mullet netting takes years of training and perseverance. Marked by towering waves and turbulent seas, the monsoon season has never dampened the fighting spirit of fisherfolk in Bachok.

A Symbol of Resilience

Along the coastline of Bachok, battered by powerful waves from the South China Sea, local fishermen view mullet fishing as a source of pride and a symbol of resilience. For them, netting mullets is more than a job; it’s a cherished tradition.

The Art of Mullet Fishing

“It takes years of training and perseverance to master it,” Suhairan Mohamed, a fisherman from Kampung Pangkalan Baru, told Bernama. Mullet fishing demands more than mere skill: keen eyesight is required to detect fish movements from over 100m away, and the courage to endure powerful waves pounding the shoreline.

The Catch

“Mullets are often found in foamy waters mixed with clay carried by the waves, and only the bravest are rewarded with fruitful catches in these challenging conditions,” the 42-year-old said. The fishermen start work as early as 8am and finish around 6pm, managing to catch 10-30kg of mullet each day. Some of the fish are given to their families, while the rest are sold at RM5 per kg to local traders or residents.

Risks and Challenges

Despite the risks, these fishermen remain undaunted as the activity ensures their families’ survival during the monsoon season. One of the biggest risks is the whirlpool areas along the beach, where mullets often gather. “If we’re not careful, it can be life-threatening,” said Zulaiman Mat Ali, a fisherman from Pantai Kemasin. “We need to know the exact location of the whirlpools to avoid any unwanted incidents.”

Conclusion

Mullet netting is a symbol of struggle and resilience among the fishermen of Bachok, a testament to their bravery and determination to provide for their families. Despite the challenges and risks, they continue to persevere, drawing inspiration from their ancestors who have practiced this tradition for generations.

FAQs

* What is mullet netting?
Mullet netting is a type of fishing activity where fishermen use nets to catch mullet fish in the ocean.
* How does it work?
Fishermen use their keen eyesight to detect fish movements from over 100m away and then use their nets to catch the fish in the ocean.
* What are the risks involved?
The biggest risks are the whirlpool areas along the beach, where fish often gather, and the powerful waves that can be life-threatening.
* Why is mullet netting important?
Mullet netting is important because it ensures the fishermen’s families’ survival during the monsoon season.