subject: Definition Of Fishing [print this page] Fishing is actually an activity wherein you search and then catch a fish. Fishing is already an old yet universal activity that has several different techniques and styles. To some extent, fishing has even developed to be a sport. For fishermen who make fishing as a living, they would definitely disagree that it is a sport.
Where is the origin of fishing?
Fishing may have started way back during the Mesolithic period that began around 10,000 years ago. We know from archaeological features, discarded fish bones and cave paintings that sea foods were important for survival and consumed in significant quantities. Though it isn't possible for us to be certain, fishes may have developed earlier than the modern humans.
The historic Nile river was actually filled with fishes. Many early fishing methods for fishing were clearly illustrated in tomb scenes and drawings found within Egyptian tombs. By the 12th dynasty, metal hooks with bards were being used. The most essential fish in the place were nile perch, eels as well as catfish. Also, there were several illustrations that implies fishing being part of their leisure activities.
Fishing scenes are rarely represented in ancient Greek culture, which shows the low social status of fishing during that time. During the ancient Roman times, there were evidence of fishing as shown in pictures from mosaics showing boats with rods and line, and also nets. At the same time, Neptune, the Greco-Roman sea god is seen carrying a fishing trident. Neptune was considered to be as the God of fishing by a number of people.
There are numerous references to fishing in ancient literature; fishing was even described in the Bible. An example would be Job 41:7 Canst thou fill his skin with barbed irons? Or his head with fish spears?
Oppian of Corycus, a Greek author wrote the Halieulica, on sea fishing between 177 and 180. Oppian describes several different ways of fishing which has still survived up to this time. His description of fishing with a "motionless" net is very interesting:
The fishers set up very light nets of buoyant flax and wheel in a circle roundabout while they violently strike the surface of the sea with their oars and make a din with sweeping blow of poles. At the flashing of the swift oars and the noise the fish bound in terror and rush into the bosom of the net which stands at rest, thinking it to be a shelter: foolish fishes which, frightened by a noise, enter the gates of doom. Then the fishers on either side hasten with the ropes to draw the net ashore.
It is indeed a very wonderful description which I know fishermen can connect to. So that is the exact meaning and origin of fishing. Now it is time for you to stand and move away, go fishing, and let us see if you can keep on the tradition.
