Fishing and bird watching on Kalametiya Lake

Saturday, 3 May 2014 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Tashiya De Mel There is so much more to fishing than simply throwing your line into the water and waiting to catch a large fish. It is an engaging activity that allows you to enjoy the outdoors and become physically active at the same time. While it was never one of those activities I saw myself trying out, fishing on the beautiful Kalametiya Lake definitely changed my entire outlook.

Sunil, a fisherman from a nearby village, agreed to take us out onto the lake and show us the ropes. We began our journey at the lagoon, which is separated from the sea by a narrow strip of isolated beach. We all managed to squeeze into Sunil’s traditional fishing boat, a narrow, elongated wooden canoe type contraption. The brackish waters were buzzing with life. The lake is home to over 180 species of endemic and migratory birds and other smaller mammals and reptiles. It’s slightly alarming yet exciting to find out that crocodiles have been spotted in these waters. Clusters of thick aquatic lotuses, water reeds and hyacinths were plentiful on the surface. Jagged boulders protrude randomly from under the water and create the ideal fishing spots. The lake is fringed on either side by salt marshes, mangroves and mini islands. What an enchanting place this is.

We hopped onto a nearby rock in the middle of the lake. From here, we got a 360 degree view of the surroundings and all of its beauty. Small pieces of squid were placed on hooks to be used as bait. After throwing our lines into the water, the hardest part was over. We waited in anticipation, hoping to feel a tug at the end of the rod. This was the most relaxing part of the experience. There was time to indulge in a nice cool beer (requires planning ahead), engage in conversations about life and whatnot or just breathe in the stunning landscapes which surrounded you. There really is nothing quite like it.

Kalametiya, also a bird sanctuary, is the final destination for migrating birds that arrive in southern Sri Lanka. We managed to do a fair amount of bird watching ourselves, spotting Whistling Ducks, Comorans, Fishing Eagles and Egrets, among others. Other highlights include: Painted Stork, White Ibis, Grey/Purple Heron, Spoon Bill, Purple Coot and Black Winged Stilt. After we got back on land, Sunil took us back to his home to meet his family. He was extremely hospitable and chatted to us about his life over a warm cup of coffee. We didn’t end up catching a single fish but that didn’t really matter. A peaceful evening bird watching and meandering across the scenic lake was more than we hoped for. Perhaps the next time would prove to be more successful.

Sunil’s practiced fishing in the Kalametiya area since his early teens. He is an expert at both standard fishing practices and traditional net fishing. His experience and familiarity with the lake make him the perfect guide for those wanting to explore the Kalametiya Lake.

(Trekurious together with DailyFT explores Sri Lanka for the curious traveller. Trekurious works with talented individuals and great brands to create amazing experiential tours, activities, and events in Sri Lanka. You can find out more at www.Trekurious.com.)