Ritipanna or stilt fishing is a traditional practice of fishing in Sri Lanka. Believed to have been originated from indigenous fisher folks who lived by the shores, this practice is more excusive to the southern coast of Sri Lanka in towns such as Hikkaduwa, Koggala, Ahangama and Weligama. A narrow pole anchored on the seabed with a crossbar attached a few meters above the water level allows the fishermen to sit on it without casting a shadow on the water. With a rod made of Kitul tree, the fishermen sits for hours with lot of patience and endurance in absolute silence. The catch is then bagged to a container tied around his waist and brought ashore to sell or to be consumed. The tradition of stilt fishing is always be practiced by those who cannot afford to invest in modern fishing equipment. Yet the sight it sets against the horizon at dawn and dusk is mesmerizing.
