Waterfall Fisherman Of Si Phan Don

LAOS | Sunday, 9 December 2012 | Views [1210] | View Smaller Image

A measly catch in a fisherman’s trap. One large fish can make a huge difference to the fishermen as fish stocks dwindle in the falls. Some fishermen can go for a day or more without catching any fish. During the monsoon season it becomes even more difficult for fisherman as their traps are damaged and fish stocks are reduced more so as the fish follow the current downstream at the start of the rains.

An elderly fisherman recalls his life fishing on the falls, risking his life each day for less than $6/£4. The toil of the job is clear on his aged and weathered skin. He speaks of plans by the WWF to ban trap fishing in an attempt to protect the rarer breeds of fish who use the falls to reach breeding grounds. Despite the challenges ahead he believes the fishermen will not give up their livelihoods easily.

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The fisherman holds on for his life knowing that one mistake here would result in certain death. The ranging Mekong pulls at his body as his weary arms cling desperately to hold him on the rope. Times like these rely on full concentration and both hands on the rope at a time, any extra luggage has to go in the mouth, knives included.

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Waterfall Fisherman Of Si Phan Don

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