Back to the Basics: Fishing 101

Fishing has been one of the most historically important processes known to man, being one of the earliest methods of sustenance in addition to traditional farming. Both these two sources of food required a steady supply of water in order to thrive which is why almost all early civilizations were situated next to large bodies of water.

The methods used for fishing in the past were obviously not as sophisticated as what is in use today. In fact according to some sources the art of fishing is over 35,000 years old and one of the earliest methods used was the hook. It is believed that prehistoric man used a hook somewhere around 40,000 years ago. In most cultures these hooks were made from rock and as it was discovered, metal.

With the passage of time, the net was invented as a superior way of catching fish. The chief benefit of the net over the hook was that a large haul could be brought in a single swoop and the chances of success were significantly higher. These nets were created by spinning grass, flax or wool and this was done by the men when it came to fishing purposes. The nets were shaped in to complicated patterns to entangle the fish while small pieces of clay or lead were also added to stop it from floating.

This pivotal tool is still in use today but in a more sophisticated manner. In the past there were two main methods as to its use. The first involved a group of people wading as far out as they could in to shallow water. Then they would lay it flat on the ground and wait for a while before lifting it from the corners and walking towards each other until the net became a ball of sorts. This way fish would get caught as they raised the net. The second such method involved fishing in waters that were deep enough for boats where fishermen would drag their nets through the water behind them before finally hauling them in.

Eventually with the inevitable growth of the populations the natural food supply could not sustain the demand and a new solution had to be found. That solution was the growing of fish in a controlled environment so that harvesting them could be controlled. This again is a technique still in practice today.

Fortunately for us living in modern times, after 40,000 years of practicing the art, it has been perfected. Fishing today occurs across the globe with all manner of fish being caught while many are also bred. Freshness is also not an issue and fish can be stored for a considerable amount of time giving consumers the choice of fresh or frozen seafood depending on their needs.

Supply is also not an issue in this day and age and when having large gatherings we never need to worry about supply as numerous wholesale seafood options are on offer.