Ancient tradition of cormorant fishing in Japan
Learn about cormorant fishing, a traditional method of fishing practiced in Japan that uses trained birds.
Contunico © ZDF Studios GmbH, Mainz
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Transcript
On the banks of the Nagara River in central Japan, fishermen are waiting for darkness to fall. The Royal Usho fishermen and their helpers have worked for the emperor for generations, heading out at night to seek their catch in an unusual fashion. They use the light from fire to attract the fish and a dedicated team of trained cormorants as helpers.
Cormorant fishing or Ukai is an ancient tradition that has been practiced on the river for 1,300 years. The skill is passed down from father to son and stays within the Usho family. Each cormorant is on a leash, which prevents it from swallowing any large fish. Small fish however, may end up in the bird’s stomach. Every time a cormorant catches a large fish, it is pulled back into the boat to retrieve the catch. Each fisherman works with 12 cormorants at a time. But tonight, the catch is small. This ancient tradition of Ukai is gradually dying out in Japan. Large-scale commercial fishing is replacing this unique fishing relationship.
Cormorant fishing or Ukai is an ancient tradition that has been practiced on the river for 1,300 years. The skill is passed down from father to son and stays within the Usho family. Each cormorant is on a leash, which prevents it from swallowing any large fish. Small fish however, may end up in the bird’s stomach. Every time a cormorant catches a large fish, it is pulled back into the boat to retrieve the catch. Each fisherman works with 12 cormorants at a time. But tonight, the catch is small. This ancient tradition of Ukai is gradually dying out in Japan. Large-scale commercial fishing is replacing this unique fishing relationship.