In India, fishing boat sizes vary significantly across different coastal regions to suit local fishing conditions and traditions. Traditional wooden boats, known as \“vallams\“ in Kerala, typically measure 10-15 feet in length and are used for inshore fishing. In Tamil Nadu, larger \“kattumarams\“ or catamarans range from 15-25 feet, designed for both near-shore and slightly deeper waters.
Modern mechanized fishing boats in states like Gujarat and Maharashtra can be much larger, often 30-50 feet long, equipped with advanced navigation systems and storage facilities. These larger vessels enable multi-day fishing expeditions in deeper seas. The choice of boat size depends on factors like fishing method, target species, sea conditions, and investment capacity of local fishing communities.
Government regulations also influence fishing boat dimensions, with specific size restrictions in certain protected marine areas. Many Indian fishermen still prefer smaller, traditional boats for their maneuverability and lower operational costs, while commercial fishing enterprises increasingly opt for larger vessels to maximize catch capacity. |
